Ward warns Sabbath reunion in trouble

Black Sabbath's drummer, Mr Bill Ward, is warning that Sabbath's much-anticipated reunion may be jeopardised unless a contractual agreement can be reached between all members.

Ward has issued a statement stating that he is "unable to continue unless a 'signable' contract is drawn up; a contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band."

While specific details are not given, Ward's statement reads like a rock 'n' roll declaration of rights: "If I sign as-is, I stand to lose my rights, dignity and respectability as a rock musician. I believe in freedom and freedom of speech. I grew up in a hard rock/metal band. We stood for something then, and we played from the heart with honesty and sincerity."

The reunion has been a long time in the works, with planned recording sessions stalling when guitarist Tony Iommi was diagnosed with lymphoma last month.

For the love of god, Sabbath, give Ward his "dignity", remember what you stood for and get on with the making the album!

Caleb Goman
3 Feb 2012