Following the reunion of the classic lineup of Black Sabbath, and their upcoming Australian tour, the heavy metal legends have announced more news that is sure to excite fans of the band’s classic discography.

Following on from the news that they’ve already got 15 songs recorded for their first album in 33 years, Black Sabbath have announced there’ll be plenty to fill the wait for their new record – in fact, their entire back catalogue to be precise, as it will be reissued on vinyl before the end of the year.

As NME  reporst, The Vinyl Collection: 1970-1978, to be released on December 12th, is sure to become a treasured collectable item. The set will feature all nine original Sabbath albums, several posters and inserts, a hard-back book containing all of the band’s 1970s tour programmes, and a seven-inch vinyl of debut single ‘Evil Woman’ and non-album B-side ‘Wicked World.’

The release of the record collection is just the latest piece of good news for Sabbath fans since the confirmation of their reunion last year.

The seminal rock institution have begun work on a new album, pegged to be release in April next year – with three out of the four original members involved in the album, with drummer Bill Ward refusing to take part, in a highly-publicised open letter that slammed the contract offered to him over the band’s reunion.

But vocalist Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler have all confirmed they will reunite for their first release together since 1978’s Never Say Die! Fulfilling Ward’s place in the drummer’s stool will be former Alice Cooper drummer Tommy Clufetos.

The new album is set to feature at least 12 new tracks, with Butler also saying there is likely to be three extra bonus songs. With the masterful Rick Rubin in charge of production, you know it’s going to be a good listen.

As if the release of a Black Sabbath LP wasn’t enough, they will also be embarking on a world tour, all the more impressive given Tony Iommi’s recent health scare. The legendary guitarist was recently diagnosed with lymphoma, and his battle with the strain of cancer forced the band to axe a series of shows earlier in the year, but thankfully he appears to be on the mend now.

Ozzy’s wife Sharon Osbourne was the first to let the cat out of the bag about Black Sabbath’s touring schedule, telling Triple M the band would “definitely” be touring Australia. Fans will be able to see the classic act live in a run of April/May dates next year, in what will be a dream come true for many Australian metalheads.

Catch Black Sabbath in Australia on the following dates:

Black Sabbath 2013 Australian Tour Dates

Tickets via ticketek

THURSDAY APRIL 25
BRISBANE, ENTERTAINMENT CENTRE

SATURDAY APRIL 27
SYDNEY, ALLPHONES ARENA

WEDNESDAY MAY 1
MELBOURNE, ROD LAVER ARENA

SATURDAY MAY 4
PERTH, PERTH ARENA

Get unlimited access to the coverage that shapes our culture.
to Rolling Stone magazine
to Rolling Stone magazine