Black Sabbath name new album 13

Lucky number: Iommi, Osbourne and Butler

Black Sabbath have confirmed their first album with Ozzy Osbourne since 1978 will be called 13, and it’s due for release in June.

Frontman Osbourne went into the studio with guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler last year, after the band announced the reunion of their original lineup at the end of 2011.

Drum tracks were laid down by Rage Against The Machine sticksman Brad Wilk following Bill Ward’s decision to bow out of the reunion. Ward later said he’d like to play a part in the band’s future – but such a move appears increasingly unlikely.

Black Sabbath return to the Vertigo label for the release of their 19th studio record, which was produced by Rick Rubin, mainly in Los Angeles.

Osbourne, whose last album appearance with Sabbath was on Never Say Die, last year admitted the band felt some tension over writing new material after so much time had passed. He said: “Black Sabbath is very unique in the respect that nothing is formulated. It’s very unpredictable. I just hope the people who have waited all these years aren’t disappointed.”

The band had planned to tour extensively during 2012 but were forced to cut back to just a handful of shows as Iommi battled with cancer. Last month he said: “”What a year! Certainly not the one I was expecting. Thanks to you all for your massive help and support. It was very encouraging. I’m looking forward to seeing what you think of the record and touring as much as we’re able.”

The exact release date of 13 will be announced in due course. Black Sabbath have announced live dates in New Zealand, Australia and Japan, with more to be revealed.

Black Sabbath tour so far

Apr 20: Auckland Vector Arena, New Zealand
Apr 22: Auckland Vector Arena, New Zealand
Apr 25: Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Australia
Apr 27: Sydney All Phones Arena, Australia
Apr 28: Melbourne Rod Laver Arena, Australia
May 1: Melbourne Rod Laver Arena, Australia
May 4: Perth Arena, Australia
May 12: Ozzfest, Tokyo Makahari Messe, Japan