Album Review: Ozzy Osbourne – No Rest For The Wicked (1988)

History:

Released on September 22nd, 1988 “No Rest for the Wicked” is Ozzy Osbourne fourth studio album. With a more polished sound and a greater focus on rhythm. This album signalled a shift in Osbourne’s musical approach after the success of “The Ultimate Sin” (1986). Guitarist Zakk Wylde, who had joined Ozzy’s band in 1987 and would go on to play a key role in his solo career, made a comeback on the album. Produced by Roy Thomas Baker, “No Rest for the Wicked” is well-known for fusing Osbourne’s trademark gloomy themes with metal from the 1980s. The album had both chart-topping hits and extensive rock radio rotation, making it a commercial triumph.

Artwork:

Bob Carlos Clarke’s photograph for the album cover “No Rest for the Wicked” shows Ozzy surrounded by kids signifying the juxtaposition between threat and innocence. The unsettling visuals are a reflection of Ozzy’s hectic existence with the kids known as “The Rats”. Despite being just ten at the time, one of them, Liberty Ross, subsequently recognised as a model. Which added to the artwork eerie atmosphere.

Notable Tracks:

“Crazy Babies” – The energetic song “Crazy Babies” the album’s debut single, features a strong riff and a memorable chorus. The song demonstrates Osbourne’s shift towards a more contemporary. Radio-friendly sound while retaining his distinctively eerie flare.
“Miracle Man” – A song addressing themes of corruption and deception in organized religion “Miracle Man” features one of Zakk Wylde’s most iconic guitar solos and became a staple of Osbourne’s live performances.
“No Rest for the Wicked” – The title track delivers a heavy, driving riff, perfectly encapsulating the album’s mood. The song powerful chorus and strong rhythm section reflect Osbourne’s refusal to slow down. Both in terms of his career and his rebellious spirit.

Why It’s Iconic:

The transition to a stronger, more polished production sound in “No Rest for the Wicked” is noteworthy since it appealed to both new listeners and die-hard Ozzy fans. Zakk Wylde guitar comeback gave Ozzy’s songs new life and breathed new life into his compositions. Osbourne ability to combine attractive songs with darker, more evil themes is seen in the album’s frequent plaudits for its aggressive and melodic mixture. Fans continue to love tracks like “Crazy Babies” and “Miracle Man” and “No Rest for the Wicked” is still one of Ozzy’s best solo albums.

Trivia:

Recorded with the newly reformed lineup of Ozzy band featuring Zakk Wylde on guitar. Randy Castillo on drums, Bob Daisley on bass and John Sinclair on keyboards.
“Miracle Man” inspired by the televangelist scandal involving Jim Bakker. Reflecting Osbourne’s cynical view of religious figures and institutions.
“No Rest for the Wicked” was Ozzy Osbourne’s first album to be certified Gold by the RIAA since “Bark at the Moon” (1983).

Track listing

“Miracle Man”
“Devil’s Daughter (Holy War)”
“Crazy Babies”
“Breakin’ All the Rules”
“Bloodbath in Paradise”
“Fire in the Sky”
“Tattooed Dancer”
“Demon Alcohol”
“Hero”