148. Zakk Wylde / Book Of Shadows. 1996. 4/5.

After his phenomenal success as guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne's band for almost a decade, which had sent his profile soaring within the music world and especially in the metal world, this is very different from anything Zakk had been renown for to most of his fans in his career. It was his first branching out on his own since his pairing up with the great man, a solo album away from the style of his work with Ozzy Osbourne. A real changing of style too, not just a mere tweak. And as a result there will no doubt be a lot of people won't like it.

While it may seem like an unusual thing to come out of my mouth, in this instance all I can say is – give it a chance! It really does grow on you.
OK, so it's not metal. But in many ways it is like a heavy metal 'chill-out' session. Zakk's guitaring is as brilliant as always, we get the chance to hear him sing for the first time (on his lonesome), and discover he CAN actually sing! And the songs all carry their own mood, and don't suffer from any identity crisis. They are not trying to be something they are not. The album is not looking to cash in on anything or anyone.
While I cannot guarantee you this will be your cup of tea, it is worth a shot next time you are feeling in a mellow-ish type of mood to slap this disc on. It will more than likely suit it perfectly, and you can appreciate the ridiculous talents of Zakk Wylde in all of their glory. And it should be said that while this album suited the time it was released, pre- Black Label Society as it was, this would still be well thought of if it hadn't been repeated somewhat ad nauseum on later albums by that very band.

Rating: This was a real surprise, and a pleasant one. If you are in a suitable mood, this is just great. 4/5.