With the exception of So Tired, I think BATM holds up well to the previous two albums. But it was also a slightly different direction in that the music wasn't infused with the same level of virtuosity or classical influences. In some ways, I prefer the MUSIC of some of the songs on BATM. I think despite the fact no one could ever replace Randy, Jake did a hell of a job, and in many of his interviews (I'll post a few from mid-80s), he absolutely hated any keys on BATM and US.
Anyhow, I hate the production, especially the drums, on US. I think it also suffers with Ozzy during a time when he barely had his wits about him from one day to the next. I also thought Jake, who doesn't care much for bullshit, seemed both aggressive and fed up on US. Fed up on songs like Thank God For The Bomb (ATBL-esque) and Fool Like You (CT-esque); aggressive on Never; and given some room to express himself on Killer Of Giants. I still like Shot In The Dark, a nice little departure. Ozzy and Sharon weren't sold on the song, but the producer demanded it be included. I think Sharon just didn't want to give anyone writing credits on the album.
When I was a kid in 1984, it was BATM, Shout At The Devil, and 1984 we're regularly replayed on my Walkman, so I have a sentimental attachment to BATM.
And I prefer Randy and Jake to Zakk for the most part.
Mind The Gap!©®™
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Anyhow, I hate the production, especially the drums, on US. I think it also suffers with Ozzy during a time when he barely had his wits about him from one day to the next. I also thought Jake, who doesn't care much for bullshit, seemed both aggressive and fed up on US. Fed up on songs like Thank God For The Bomb (ATBL-esque) and Fool Like You (CT-esque); aggressive on Never; and given some room to express himself on Killer Of Giants. I still like Shot In The Dark, a nice little departure. Ozzy and Sharon weren't sold on the song, but the producer demanded it be included. I think Sharon just didn't want to give anyone writing credits on the album.
When I was a kid in 1984, it was BATM, Shout At The Devil, and 1984 we're regularly replayed on my Walkman, so I have a sentimental attachment to BATM.
And I prefer Randy and Jake to Zakk for the most part.
Mind The Gap!©®™
Icon©®™
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