"13" marks the nineteenth and final studio album by the legendary English heavy metal band Black Sabbath, released on June 10, 2013, under Vertigo Records. This album holds special significance as it represents the band's first studio release in 18 years, marking the longest gap between albums in their illustrious career.
Notably, "13" also serves as Black Sabbath's first studio recording with original singer Ozzy Osbourne and bassist Geezer Butler since their live album "Reunion" in 1998, and the first with Osbourne since "Never Say Die!" in 1978, and with Butler since "Cross Purposes" in 1994.
The album's development spanned over a decade, with initial work beginning in 2001 alongside producer Rick Rubin. However, various factors including Osbourne's solo career and other band members' side projects caused delays. Nevertheless, the band reunited in 2011 to restart work on the album with Rubin.
Featuring singles like "God Is Dead?", "End of the Beginning," and "Loner," "13" received widespread acclaim from critics, praised for its impressive songwriting and performance abilities, showcasing the band's enduring relevance decades after their formation. However, it's worth noting that some criticism was directed towards the album's compromised sound quality due to the loudness war and overly compressed dynamic range.
Despite these critiques, "13" enjoyed immense commercial success, reaching number one in several countries including the United Kingdom and the United States. It received various certifications, including gold in the UK and platinum in Brazil, Canada, Germany, and Poland, solidifying its status as a monumental achievement in Black Sabbath's legendary career.
