Originally published on metropolis.co.jp on March 2013

Ozzy and Sharon Osbourne’s festival’s Japan debut features Black Sabbath as headliners. The metal grandfathers are kicking off their international tour here in support of their forthcoming album, 13, produced by career reviver Rick Rubin. This is the first album that Osbourne has recorded with Sabbath since 1978, and expectations are high. Though not a complete reunion with drummer Bill Ward absent, this long-awaited appearance—45 years in the making—should rock Japan like no other metal show this year. The pump will be primed during the two-day festival by Slipknot, Tool, Japanese metal legends Dir En Gray, Deftones, Slash, and ten others.

Makuhari Messe, May 11-12, ¥16,500 (one day, reserved seating) /¥27,000 (two day, standing). Nearest stn: Kaihin-Makuhari. http://ozzfestjapan.com