BLACK SABBATH guitar legend TONY IOMMI was recently diagnosed with the early stages of lymphoma, shaking the metal world to its core (again). VIRGIN STEELE frontman David DeFeis has added his voice to the legion of well wishers in Iommi's battle against the disease:

"We toured with Black Sabbath on their Eternal Idol Tour, and they were just so very gracious to us. Tony was exceptionally kind and supportive of all that we were doing. All the guys in the group and I wish him all the absolute best, and hope that he will beat this illness and be back to top wailing and roaring form as soon as possible."

Following are statements from several other members of the metal community:

OPETH's Mikael Åkerfeldt : "Just read the news, and it's perplexing and shocking to say the least. On behalf of the band and, I'm confident to say, the whole population of rock music lovers in the world, we all wish for a swift recovery for Tony. Get well!"

ANTHRAX: "This really does suck. GET WELL SOON TONY!"

SLASH (VELVET REVOLVER, GUNS N' ROSES): "Best wishes for a full recovery to Tony Iommi."

Randy Blythe (LAMB OF GOD): "I absolutely insist that every single follower of mine, religious or not, send a prayer up for Tony Iommi. He has been diagnosed with lymphoma. It's in its early stages — Sabbath is writing a new record, and they are continuing to. Iommi is the reason heavy metal exists. Pray for him. You pray to Crom, Odin, yourself — don't care who. Just send up some positive vibes for Tony Iommi. This is terrible news for metal. I've toured with Iommi a coupla times. He is a gentleman and a living legend. Hopefully since it's in early stages they can beat it pretty easily. But Iommi's not a young man, so think good thoughts! It is no secret that I have donated both my time, energy, facial hair, and a fair amount of my money to cancer research. I've walked the walk (literally) as well as talked the talk. However, there's nothing wrong with positive vibes."

Zakk Wylde (BLACK LABEL SOCIETY, OZZY OSBOURNE): "Big BL get well wishes out to Lord Iommi!!!"

GLENN HUGHES (BLACK COUNTRY COMMUNION, ex-DEEP PURPLE, BLACK SABBATH): "Prayers please for my brother Tony Iommi... We all pray for a full, speedy recover from cancer.... Much love…"

Sebastian Bach (ex-SKID ROW): "All hail the mighty Tony Iommi. & FUCK YOU, Cancer."

Richie Faulkner (JUDAS PRIEST): "My thoughts go out to Tony Iommi and I wish him a fast and full recovery."

Gus G. (OZZY OSBOURNE, FIREWIND): "I'm in shock to hear the news about Tony Iommi. Get well soon 'Iron Man'!! Your biggest fan."

Niji Entertainment Group: "Our thoughts, love and prayers are with Tony Iommi and his family! Please say a prayer!"

3 INCHES OF BLOOD: "All our thoughts and well wishes go to the mighty Tony Iommi. Here's to a speedy recovery!"

ANGBAND: "Unfortunately Black Sabbath guitar legend Toni Iommi is diagnosed with cancer, we wish a full and successful recovery for the Iron Man of Metal."

IN VIRTUE: "I'm sure you have all heard that the man who invented metal has been diagnosed with lymphoma. Without Tony Iommi, we'd probably be still be wearing flowers in our hair and having love-ins, singing whiny hippie crap and listening to quiet, boring music. So here's wishing a speedy recovery to the godfather of METAL!!!"

According to a press release, Iommi is currently working with his doctors to establish the best treatment plan - the 'Iron Man' of rock & roll remains upbeat and determined to make a full and successful recovery. This comes as Black Sabbath - Ozzy Osbourne (vocals), Tony Iommi (guitar), Geezer Butler (bass) and Bill Ward (drums) - are writing and recording their first album in 33 years in Los Angeles (still set for release this fall) with producer Rick Rubin. They will now go to the UK to continue to work with Tony.

Black Sabbath’s confirmed European tour dates are below:

May

18 - Moscow, Russia - Olimpiski
20 - St. Petersburg, Russia - New Arena
23 - Helsinki, Finland - Hartwall Arena
25 - Stockholm, Sweden - Stadium
29 - Bergen, Norway - Bergen Calling Festival
31 - Oslo, Norway - Spektrum

June

2 - Malmo, Sweden - Malmo Stadium
4 - Dortmund, Germany - Westfalenhalle
10 - Donnington, UK - Download Festival
12 - Rotterdam, Holland - Ahoy
15 - Bilbao, Spain - Azkena Rock Festival
17 - Nantes, France - Hellfest
19 - Paris, France - Bercy
22 - Dessel, Belgium - Graspop Metal Meeting
24 - Milan, Italy - Gods of Metal