Zakk Wylde - Book of Shadows (1996/Geffen)
Rating - 8.2
A largely acoustic offering from the former Ozzy/Pride & Glory guitarist, this disc was originally released in 1996, then reissued in '99 on Spitfire Records with a
second, bonus CD. There is sometimes a Southern, P&G feel, but mainly what you have is a unique atmosphere and ambiance that is created in no small part by
Wylde's soulful, yearning vocals. This release really showcases those abilities, much more so than any of his other projects, in fact. "Sold My Soul" has a great
chorus and mood, with a kick-in electric solo. Both "Road Back Home" and "Throwin' It All Away" are good, with "1,000,000 Miles Away" having an electric-fueled rhythm
flow.
"What You're Look'n For" has that classic Southern acoustic feel, "Way Beyond Empty" is a heartfelt tune, and the very laid back "I Thank You" has a surprising,
back-breaking distortion crunch hidden within.
From the bonus disc, all three tracks are calm and serene.
TRACK LIST: DISC ONE
DISC TWO