On September 9, 2022, heavy metal musician Ozzy Osbourne released his 13th studio album, Patient Number 9. The album landed him the highest U.K. chart position of his career. The Eagle’s Cry delves into the songs to discuss highlights from the album.

Over the years, Osbourne encountered multiple issues with his physical health, even undergoing neck and spine surgery just this past summer. The title track on the album represents his experiences in and out of the hospital. Lyrics like, “When they call your name/Better run and hide/Tell you you’re insane/You believe their lies/I’m not gettin’ out,” illustrate his struggles inside the hospitals during his recovery. However, the second track, “Immortal,” directly juxtaposes the previous song by asserting his resilience and stating “But I’ll never die/’Cause I’m immortal.” 

Osbourne features five artists on the album, including former bandmate Tony Iommi, on two tracks. BHS senior, Emily Betwinek, expressed, “Including so many music legends as features on half of the tracks is a statement. In the past, he rarely featured other artists on his albums.” Even though he collaborated with artists like Post Malone and Travis Scott on past records, he chose to feature a variety of rock ‘n roll icons for Patient Number 9. It not only made more sense to include musicians like Eric Clapton and Mike McCready on this one, but it also gave the songs that extra hard-rock magic. 

The vocals on this record are hypnotizing and the riffs invigorating. This is the type of album where the lyrics actually make you feel something. The whole album is an exhilarating rollercoaster that you never want to get off of. The tracks even sound like much of his older music without it being too repetitive. BHS senior, Lauren Robertino, explained, “For me, it was like everything he’s ever done. Class Ozzy and all. It’s basically like his Sabbath days with the unpredictability of his artistry…He’s still got a classic, legendary sound despite his health issues.” 

On the other hand, critics argue that Osbourne’s vocals have progressively worsened over time, even going so far as to say they’re “outdated.” However, The Eagle’s Cry couldn’t disagree more. Sure, Ozzy Osbourne isn’t getting any younger and it may affect his voice, but this album was his way of saying, “I’m not going anywhere.” I think it’s safe to say that the Prince of Darkness is practically immortal, and he will continue to make music until the day he’s not around anymore. If there’s one thing fans and critics can agree on, it’s that whatever health complications he goes through, nothing will affect his passion and artistic expertise.