Bill Ward Eyes 'Colorful' New Solo LP Amid Stashed Recordings

Black Sabbath percussion icon Bill Ward is currently in the mastering stages of a new solo album. Speaking with Dan Shinder of Drum Talk TV, Ward revealed that while he is keeping the title under wraps for now, the upcoming release features 18 tracks and leans into a 'colorful' aesthetic.

Though he acknowledges his heavy metal roots, Ward notes that his recent compositions move beyond the expected Birmingham imagery. The upcoming LP incorporates elements of jazz, orchestrations, choirs, and various vocal groups. While he avoids the label 'metal' for his current work, he insists the influence of his time in Black Sabbath and his earlier band, Mythology, remains palpable in the thick drum sounds and solid rhythms.

I've abandoned the person that needs to be possibly afraid not to step out a little bit. So we're stepping out and we're gonna take more risks.

Ward admits to sitting on a treasure trove of material, having recorded several albums over the last five years. Rather than a standard sequential release, he is considering bundling multiple records into combined packages. The upcoming 18-track LP is intended for wide release across vinyl, digital, and CD formats once a recording deal is finalised.

Reflecting on his craft, the 78-year-old drummer described his current creative headspace as one where he has 'abandoned the critical self'. He is exploring more extensive arrangements, writing both the bass and piano parts himself. While some tracks on future releases feature guest spots from peers like Dave Lombardo, Ward is set to perform on the majority of the material. Despite his physical challenges, Ward remains active and committed to the craft, refusing to call his current situation a retirement.