Unboxing and Reviewing Black Sabbath’s “Hand of Doom” Box Set: A Special Tribute to Ozzy Osbourne
Please watch the video for the full detailed review and see all the eight albums ranked.
In celebration of Ozzy Osbourne’s 75th birthday, I’m unboxing and reviewing the limited edition “Hand of Doom” box set, featuring picture discs of all the Ozzy Osbourne era Black Sabbath albums.
The Arrival of the Box Set:
When the “Hand of Doom” box set arrived, it was unmistakable. The packaging proudly displayed “Black Sabbath,” ensuring that even the postman knew what treasure lay inside. Limited to only 3,000 copies, this set is a rarity. It includes picture discs of iconic albums like Black Sabbath, Paranoid, Master of Reality,” Vol4, Sabbath Bloody Sabbath, Sabotage, Technical Ecstasy and Never Say Die along with a special poster.
Unboxing the Treasures:
The box set is meticulously packaged, ensuring the safety of each item. Inside, you’ll find each album on a picture disc, beautifully presented in protective sleeves. The attention to detail is remarkable, with the artwork thoughtfully chosen to reflect the original album designs and additional elements like posters and gatefold sleeves.
Sound Quality and Design:
I compared the sound quality of these picture discs with my original vinyl albums, and I must say, the technology has come a long way. The picture discs deliver an outstanding audio experience, possibly even surpassing the originals in some aspects. The artwork on each disc is creatively chosen, ensuring fans get a sense of the original album experience.
Who Should Consider This Box Set?
“Hand of Doom” is undoubtedly aimed at die-hard Black Sabbath fans. While it doesn’t offer extra tracks, its uniqueness lies in the collectible nature and the exceptional presentation of the picture discs. It’s a celebration of Black Sabbath’s legacy, particularly the Ozzy era, and a must-have for collectors.
Ranking the Ozzy Era Albums:
As a bonus in the video, I’ve ranked the first seven Black Sabbath albums featuring Ozzy. From “Sabbath Bloody Sabbath” taking the top spot for its metal-prog excellence to “Never Say Die” holding up the rest, each album has its unique place in Sabbath’s history. These rankings are a personal reflection of my journey with Black Sabbath’s music.
Closing Thoughts:
The “Hand of Doom” box set is more than just a collection of albums; it’s a piece of music history. For Sabbath fans, it’s a journey through the band’s formative years with Ozzy Osbourne. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their music, this set offers a unique way to experience Black Sabbath’s legacy.
Let me know your thoughts on this box set and your top Black Sabbath albums from the Ozzy era. And remember, music is both the healer and the doctor. Keep spinning those discs, and I’ll see you all very soon. Don’t forget to subscribe and become a member for more exclusive content!
Phil Aston | Now Spinning Magazine
