Zakk Sabbath performing during the King of the Monsters Tour at Emo's Austin in Austin, Texas on December 12, 2024. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
Zakk Wylde, the legendary guitarist renowned for his virtuosic playing and long-standing tenure with Ozzy Osbourne, has embarked on a bold musical journey with his tribute band, Zakk Sabbath. This high-octane ensemble pays homage to the iconic heavy metal pioneers, Black Sabbath, delivering thunderous renditions of their timeless classics.
Formed in 2014, Zakk Sabbath initially comprised Wylde, alongside Rob "Blasko" Nicholson, the seasoned bassist who has shared the stage with Ozzy Osbourne since 2003, and the dynamic drummer John Tempesta, formerly of Rob Zombie. This formidable trio unleashed their raw power and technical prowess on the live circuit, captivating audiences with their intense performances.
Zakk Sabbath made their studio recording debut with the critically acclaimed live EP, Live in Detroit. This blistering release showcased the band's ability to channel the spirit of Black Sabbath, delivering electrifying renditions of such iconic tracks as "War Pigs," "Supernaut," and "Fairies Wear Boots."
Building upon the success of their live EP, Zakk Sabbath delved deeper into the Black Sabbath discography, reimagining their seminal albums for a new generation of metalheads. They unleashed Vertigo, a powerful reinterpretation of Black Sabbath's self-titled 1970 debut album. This album paid tribute to the band's groundbreaking sound, while infusing it with Zakk Sabbath's signature heavy metal intensity.
Continuing their mission to honor the legacy of Black Sabbath, Zakk Sabbath released Doomed Forever Forever Doomed. This double LP features searing renditions of tracks from the band's iconic albums Paranoid and Master of Reality. The album showcases the band's ability to capture the essence of these classic records, while adding their own unique twist.
Zakk Sabbath's dedication to preserving the legacy of Black Sabbath is evident in their meticulous attention to detail and their unwavering commitment to delivering high-energy, high-quality music. With each release, they continue to inspire and excite fans of heavy metal worldwide.
Fan reviews:Setlist for the show at Emo's Austin
Zakk Wylde's amazing tribute to the almighty Black Sabbath! Zakk, JD and Joey took command of the stage and the sold-out crowd, ripping thru Sabbath classic after classic with passion, talent and vigor, the boys kept the crowd chanting, thrashing and screaming for more. They were on stage for almost two hours and delivered an explosive performance like no other Black Sabbath tribute band can. As an unexpected treat, Zakk played from the balcony and behind his head, to the bedazzled crowd, during the show closer, War Pigs. All in all, an amazing show not to miss!
Awesome! Great show, Zack Sabbath, one of the hardest working bands I've ever watched they play ninety plus minutes straight through with barely a sip of water in between songs. The bass player was amazing he just jammed on that bass. The drummer plays effortlessly fun to watch. And of course Zack just shutting calories playing that guitar shredding like he always does. Thank you Zack Sabbath for a great show.
Great show! All 3 bands were great, crowd control was excellent, clean restrooms, shirts and drinks were easy to get. Parking is accessible near auditorium. Overall, one of the best concerts in a long time.
Mind melted. Zakk and the boys came on stage and kept the magic flowing, all classics and all bangers from the Black Sabbath catalogue poured through the Zakk Wylde playdough fun factory of goodness to ooze out a new gooey layer of perfection. Zakk's vocals add a darker, grittier layer to Ozzy's lyrics that leave you feeling all dirty and glowing, like a night out on the seedier side of Mardi Gras. I will never miss another show by either of these acts.
One of the best nights ever! That was one of the best shows I've been to in years. It was sold out packed just the way I liked my concerts .
Zakk Sabbath are the best bands on the planet! I try to see them every time they come to town. Never disappointed!
Forever fan! I think everything about this show was awesome, great venue and sound set up. I had an awesome time, best birthday I had in a long time. I don’t think you could get a better three guys to play the sabbath stuff, next best thing to the original band. Definitely not your average cover band.
- Supernaut
- Snowblind
- Symptom of the Universe
- Orchid
- Under the Sun
- Tomorrow's Dream
- Wicked World
- Jack the Stripper
- Fairies Wear Boots
- Into the Void
- Embryo
- Children of the Grave
- Lord of This World
- Hand of Doom
- Behind the Wall of Sleep
- N.I.B.
- War Pigs
Zakk Sabbath was the main act at Emo's Austin with guests Zoso and The Iron Maidens. They continue across the United States and Europe with the last stop at the Backstage Werk in Munich, Germany on March 23, 2025.
Zakk Sabbath
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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