Black Sabbath leave reunion door open for Bill Ward
Though they will continue with or without the drummer
Chris Eustace - 06 February 2012
The metal legends’ original drummer had said on Facebook that he would be “unable to continue” as part
of the band’s recording and touring plans unless a “signable contract” was presented to him.
In
a statement on the Black Sabbath
website, the other members of the group – Ozzy Osbourne, Tony Iommi and Geezer Butler – said: “We were saddened
to hear yesterday via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans...we have no choice but to continue recording
without him although our door is always open.”
They continued: “We are still in the UK with Tony [Iommi,
guitarist]. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll... See you at Download!”
The band have moved
their recording base to the UK after Iommi was diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma.
Ward maintained in
his Facebook statement that he was still willing to take part if terms could be agreed: “At this time, I would
love nothing more than to be able to proceed with the Black Sabbath album and tour. However, I am unable to continue unless a ‘signable’
contract is drawn up; a contract that reflects some dignity and respect toward me as an original member of the band.”
Ward went on to say: “Last year, I worked diligently in good faith with Tony, Ozzy and Geezer. And on 11/11/11,
again in good faith, I participated in the L.A. press conference. Several days ago, after nearly a year of trying to negotiate,
another “unsignable” contract was handed to me."
The band are due to headline the closing night of
Download Festival 2012 on Sunday 10 June.
Other acts on the Download
Festival line-up include Metallica, The Prodigy, Soundgarden, Biffy Clyro, Chase & Status and You Me At Six.
Download Festival tickets are on sale now,
with Weekend Camping tickets priced at £190 (including booking fee).
Click here to buy Download Festival tickets
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