NEWS // Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath Bow Out with Epic Final Show in Birmingham
Birmingham, July 5, 2025 — Heavy metal closed a defining chapter as Ozzy Osbourne and Black Sabbath delivered their final performance in an emotional, star-studded farewell at Villa Park. The historic Back to the Beginning concert marked the end of an era for the Birmingham-born band that pioneered a global movement in music.
Tens of thousands packed the stadium while billions tuned in worldwide to witness heavy metal royalty bid goodbye. Hosted by actor and metal enthusiast Jason Momoa, the show opened with explosive tributes from artists like Mastodon, Rival Sons, Halestorm, and David Draiman. Yungblud’s piano rendition of “Changes” brought tears to many, while collaborations from Alice in Chains, Billy Corgan, Steven Tyler, and Metallica added further firepower. Guns N’ Roses’ Axl Rose faced mixed reactions online, but fans acknowledged his efforts at 77.
As the lights dimmed, Ozzy emerged on a winged throne, defying health struggles to perform solo classics like “Mr. Crowley” and “Crazy Train.” Supported by Zakk Wylde, Adam Wakeman, Mike Inez, and Travis Barker, Osbourne’s voice held strong throughout the night.
The final curtain call saw Black Sabbath reunite for one last thunderous set featuring “War Pigs,” “Iron Man,” and “Paranoid.” Bill Ward returned to drums, while Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler delivered powerful performances, the latter donning a custom Aston Villa-themed bass.
Back to the Beginning wasn’t just a concert—it was a global farewell to the gods of metal, closing the book on a legacy that shaped generations. Fans wept, screamed, and sang along, knowing they were witnessing history.
REVIEWS // It’s Still Going On by The Cumberland River Project
The Cumberland River Project is known for their alt folk brand. They have a defined style, one that encircles nature with humanity with so much tenderness and naturality. They always leave you feeling connected to something bigger than you. Something you can get perspective out of. Their latest release is ‘It’s Still Going On’ featuring Daniella Goldfine on the vocals. It has some retro country sensibilities, all weaved into a contemporary folk exploration. You’ll see glimpses of Joni Mitchell blended in with ABBA, and Phoebe Bridgers. That homeliness, nostalgia of the former with the distinct liveliness (ABBA) and softness (Phoebe Bridgers) of the latter.
The Cumberland River Project’s ‘It’s Still Going On’ : An Alt Folk Exploration
INTERVIEWS // Mikael Åkerfeldt
We caught up with Mikael Akerfeldt at Graspop 2025! In this rare conversation, catch the Opeth frontman talking about the shifting soundscape of metal and about his own journey through the evolution of his genre. He reflects on his many collaborations, working with artists like Steven Wilson (Porcupine Tree) and Ian Anderson (Jethro Tull), and shares what it was like to compose the soundtrack for Netflix’s ‘Clark’.
“Get Over Your Pride. This Is Not Your Music. It’s Their Music” – Mikael Åkerfeldt on composing music for Clark
Åkerfeldt also talks about his love for Indian music, the unexpected turns in Opeth’s sound, and how he approaches storytelling through composition.
PLAYLISTS // Shadows and Echoes
Explore the intense and raw emotions of rock music through the lens of this playlist, featuring tracks that delve into the depths of the human experience. From heart-wrenching ballads to epic anthems, Shadows & Echoes brings you the best of the emotional side of rock.
Click here > The Emotive Edge of Rock