Former Black Sabbath frontman Tony Martin has issued the following update:

“I have the greatest pleasure and sadness to confirm one of the new songs on the new Tony Martin album is written by Clive Jones, sax player, flute player, singer and all round good egg from Black Widow. Sad because Clive is struggling with cancer. The song is called "Devils man down" and the album will be called "Book of shadows"

 

 

Rock journalist Mitch Lafon had a chance to speak with Tony Martin on behalf of BraveWords late last year. Here are two excerpts from the chat found here.

BraveWords: It’s been reported that no one from Black Sabbath has spoken to you since you last left. Is that a disappointment to you? If Tony Iommi called today - what would you like to say to him? Even if it were only a side-project would you like to go back out with Tony and perform your Sabbath-era songs live?     

Martin: "I met Tony Iommi once in Russia and he was very amicable. He thought I did good on the show we were on and that's about it. Haven't seen or heard from him since or before that. I would have liked to hook up with him again but now that he has cancer it’s unlikely.”

BraveWords: The Tyr and Forbidden albums are much maligned, but Headless Cross and Cross Purposes are considered essential Sabbath for many fans. How do you view those albums and your contribution to the Sabbath legacy?

Martin: "I hear many great comments about Tyr!!! Forbidden is a bit weird… Well, a LOT weird. But the others are cool. I don't usually listen to my OWN recordings but I regard them all as relevant in the big scheme of things.” BraveWords: After leaving Black Sabbath for the last time - were there moments of depression or was it a relief? I can imagine there must have been enormous  pressure being in the band.  Martin: "The hardest part was reading between the lines. There wasn't much in the way of direct talking, mostly done by others and relayed through managers etc., but I felt like I hadn't finished! I thought there was better to come so it was disappointing.”