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When it came to selecting an author for Black Sabbath FAQ, the latest in a series that includes the Beatles, Pink Floyd, U2 and others, Backbeat Books made the perfect choice in Martin Popoff. The prolific metal scribe has a boatload of books under his belt already, including the Sabbath bio Doom Let Loose, so he is extremely versed in all things Sabbath. He also wrote a Dio biography.

Instead of an in depth, chronological biography, Black Sabbath FAQ: All That's Left To Know On The First Name In Metal combines vignettes from throughout the band's history with lists, charts and other info.

There are enough basic details to inform the Black Sabbath neophyte, but also plenty of trivia and behind the scenes tales that even the most diehard fan can find something new and interesting.

For example, there are chapters on the different Sabbath vocalists, bands Sabbath shared a bill with, an analysis of various solo projects and the story of Heaven And Hell. In addition, Popoff serves up plenty of lists fans can debate, such as ranking the band's album covers, album sound quality and most radio-friendly songs. He also reviews and ranks all of Black Sabbath's studio and live albums.

Black Sabbath are the founding fathers of metal, and although there have been several books written about them already, Black Sabbath FAQ is a worthy addition to the pantheon. It's an interesting read, and because of the way it is organized, it's easy to skip around and skim the chapters you find especially compelling. There are also chapters listing the various important dates throughout Sabbath's history, so you'll be able to find a reason to commemorate something Black Sabbath related on pretty much any day throughout the year!

(released May 2011 by Backbeat Books)



Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.