← Back

Cross Purposes

by Black Sabbath

Released: January 31, 1994

Heavy metal

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Chart Success.

The Album

This album marked the re-arrival of vocalist Tony Martin who replaced Ronnie James Dio in 1991. "Cross Purposes" is the 17th studio album by English rock band Black Sabbath, released in January 1994. It also features the return of original band member Geezer Butler on bass, adding to the album's significance.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

In terms of music style, the album maintains…

In terms of music style, the album maintains Sabbath's heavy metal sound, but includes some softer pieces, and some tracks even have elements of blues and hard rock.

It is a fusion of rich lyrical depictions…

It is a fusion of rich lyrical depictions and dark riffs, showcasing the band's creative aptitude.

The album includes tracks such as "I Witness"…

The album includes tracks such as "I Witness" and "Cross Of Thorns", which were well-received by fans.

However, the overall reception of "Cross Purposes" was…

However, the overall reception of "Cross Purposes" was mixed, with some seeing it as a powerful exception from the band's later works, while others considered it less distinguished than Black Sabbath's previous albums.

On the whole, it established itself as one…

On the whole, it established itself as one enduring part of the extensive discography of Black Sabbath.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Black Sabbath - Cross Purposes

Open in Albums Gallery

Then

Reception

Despite the divided opinion, "Cross Purposes" debuted at number 41 on the UK Albums Chart, and number 122 on the US Billboard 200.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

"Cross Purposes" is the 17th studio album by English rock band Black Sabbath, released in January 1994. This album marked the re-arrival of vocalist Tony Martin who replaced Ronnie James Dio in 1991. It also features the return of original band member Geezer Butler on bass, adding to the album's significance.

In terms of music style, the album maintains Sabbath's heavy metal sound, but includes some softer pieces, and some tracks even have elements of blues and hard rock. It is a fusion of rich lyrical depictions and dark riffs, showcasing the band's creative aptitude.

The album includes tracks such as "I Witness" and "Cross Of Thorns", which were well-received by fans. However, the overall reception of "Cross Purposes" was mixed, with some seeing it as a powerful exception from the band's later works, while others considered it less distinguished than Black Sabbath's previous albums.

Despite the divided opinion, "Cross Purposes" debuted at number 41 on the UK Albums Chart, and number 122 on the US Billboard 200. On the whole, it established itself as one enduring part of the extensive discography of Black Sabbath.