'Sabbath's' second release of 1970 and they continue in a similar way to the debut with material that is unconventional in approach, supported by killer riffs, pounding rhythm and 'Ozzy's' distinctive vocals. 'Paranoid' is probably most noted for the title track which gained 'Black Sabbath' unprecedented chart success in the UK, which is even more remarkable as it was a late addition to the album as they were short on tracks. Although a couple of songs sound a tad dated, 'Paranoid' is still a classic album that contains no less that four of 'Sabbaths' most noted songs.

Ultra heavy riffs announce the classic 'War Pigs' a doom laden plodding anti war song, that features quality 'Tony Iommi' guitar work, solid 'Ozzy' vocals, and superb menacing lyrics that are all tied up with superb instrumental sections. The title track follows and what can I say about this, one of the distinctive Heavy Metal songs of all time, this hypnotic brisk paced galloper is extremely catchy with its heavy riffs, rolling rhythm and amusing lyrics. The pace drops for the psychedelic acid trip known as 'Planet Caravan', it's easy to overlook this track as drug fuelled filler, but it does have a great relaxed flow and those ethereal vocals are just unique. More classic material takes the shape of 'Iron Man', a riff driven masterpiece and one of the 'Sabb's' most known songs, lyrically it's almost comical but the instrumentation especially 'Iommi's' guitaring is just superb. Next up is the slow plodder 'Electric Funeral' a listless track which only picks up around the halfway mark and turns into a brisk Jazzy rocker, with shades of 'King Crimson'- overall a tad disjointed for my liking though. 'Hand of Doom' is basically a two part song, the first is a dull gloomy affair, while the second is an upbeat rocker well within the mould of classic 'Sabbath', with cracking riffs and great melancholy lyrics. The tempo is retained with the lively, drum dominant instrumental 'Rat Salad', a decent affair but nothing revolutionary. Last up is the comical but ultimately superb 'Fairies Wear Boots', yet another classic track which is governed by 'Ozzy's' quirky delivery of the splendid lyrics and further complimented by a fine rhythm laid down by 'Geezer' and 'Ward'.

A legendary and highly influential album that should be gracing the collection of any Metal head.