[1] On 11 November 2011, at the Whisky a Go Go in Los Angeles the band announced that the original lineup was reforming to tour in 2012 and cut a new album.
"[2] Sabbath's last tour with Ozzy was in 2005, and the original lineup last appeared together when they were inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2006.
They attempted to cut a new album with Rick Rubin in 2001, but the sessions fell apart and Osbourne turned his attention to his solo career.
"[5] The band were forced to withdraw from a headlining slot at 2012's Coachella festival, following Iommi's announcement that he was suffering from the lymphoma form of cancer.
– Tony, Ozzy and Geezer"[8] Ward would eventually bow out of playing drums for the group's shows scheduled for 2012 after failing to reach a contract agreement.
[12] To make up for the cancellation of the shows, Osbourne headed out on a 17-date tour as part of Ozzy and Friends, which featured special guests such as Slash, Zakk Wylde and Butler on select dates.