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Ozzy Osbourne > Bark at the Moon > Reviews > OzzyApu
Ozzy Osbourne - Bark at the Moon

My Favorite Ozzy (Solo) Album - 87%

OzzyApu, May 8th, 2009

Considering that I don’t waste my time with any Ozzy post-No More Tears, I pretty much stand by my statement. This has everything that the 80s captured: glam, class, money, eclectic riffs, vibrant drums, bass with brains, and nostalgic production up the ass. The first time this album sparked my interest was when I heard the title track in 2004 after playing Grand Theft Auto: Vice City - yeah bitch, the best way to hear some fucking heavy metal. While No More Tears actually got me into Ozzy Osbourne, “Bark At The Moon” sparked my interest like no other. It had greasy speed, flare, style, and a personality of its own. The theme of this album was darker, more creative, and in more unified than ever.

On the two previous albums I felt Ozzy’s music was thin, therefore leaving a lot of gap in the air. This was mainly an issue with the production, but here he obviously fixed that issue. To me, I feel as though this is his best album of the 80s, which says a lot considering how many people burst when hearing “Crazy Train.” The variety on here is killer, which brings the replay value up more than people notice. Through one listen of the album, I already memorized how the first six tracks sound – they’re so unique and hard-hitting your head just can’t forget him. Whether it’s the mourning “You’re No Different,” the roaring “Now You See It,” or the anthem “Rock ‘N’ Roll Rebel,” Ozzy’s performance is at its peak.

Then-newcomer Jake E. Lee in my opinion filled in Rhoad’s shoes better than anyone to me, and that’s just because of this album. Wylde would be a tough competitor later on, but I love how Lee fit the chilly theme. Ozzy’s vocals sound colder, and thanks to some production they echo like he’s singing in an arena – a most excellent choice. They’re clear, loud, and are never annoying – combine this with Lee’s almost spontaneous / over the top playing and you have one extraordinary album. Even less talked about tracks like “Slow Down” would fit perfectly on a Megaman game and encompass all the glitz the 80s had to offer. Keyboard use isn’t found throughout, but when it appears you can’t help but smell the nostalgia.

Daisley, by far my favorite member of the set, tears through the crisp riffs and delivers some of the best lines in his career. As Ozzy performs some of his best choruses here, Daisley executes the almost retro-like basslines. I couldn’t help but think how music from Gradius as well – you know, the spacey atmospheric type shit that gets your heart racing. I’m still listening to “Slow Down” and the whole song is pretty much built off of his one driving line. Drumming is by far the least standout, but even that’s like butchering a newborn baby’s reputation. Give it some kudos for doing what it does best and let whoever can show off do without comparison!

Take note that the version I’m listening to is NOT the remastered version. I highly suggest you try and get a hold of this original copy, as you’ll hear all its 80s glory and not that re-processed bullshit. Don’t miss out on the best of Ozzy Osbourne’s solo material – it’s like throwing away life itself!