"More guitars than typical": Tony Iommi contributes his fiery riffing skills to an unconventional collaboration - a new single with the renowned pop figure whose biopic featured a CGI simian.
English pop artist Robbie Williams, known for his CGI-monkey portrayal in the biopic 'Better Man,' has unveiled the first track from his upcoming album. remarkably, the track features heavy metal pioneer Tony Iommi.
The legendary guitarist and Gibson SG advocate is prominently featured on the track, belting out an energetic riff and providing a gritty backbone for Williams' fiery vocal performance. The song, which lasts under three minutes, showcases Iommi's prowess on the electric guitar, with even a few lead guitar flourishes thrown in.
The untitled track is a straightforward song that never loses steam and blends harmoniously. The outro, in particular, is engaging, with a hint of Queen's signature style.
Williams' 13th studio album, 'BRITPOP,' is slated for release in the Autumn. Along with Iommi, other artists are set to appear on the album.
In an Instagram post, Williams described the album as the one he had always wanted to create after parting ways with Take That in 1995. He claimed it would be raw, guitar-heavy, and more upbeat and anthemic than his previous work.
This collaboration between Williams and Iommi is sure to catch both sets of fans off guard, but it demonstrates a complementary blend of pop and heavy metal. Given Williams' history of rock-infused pop hits like 'Let Me Entertain You' and 'Rock DJ,' fans can expect to see more high-profile collaborations and perhaps a heavier sound on the album.
Iommi's guest appearance follows a series of collaborations with luxury Italian perfume house Xerjoff and Sergio Momo. The tracks, 'Scent of the Dark' and 'Deified,' exhibited Iommi at his darkest and featured his first electric guitar-driven compositions since Black Sabbath's 2013 album, '13,' save for his contribution to Ozzy Osbourne's 'Patient Number 9.'
Meanwhile, Iommi is working on a new solo album, which he claims will be filled with epic orchestras and mark his first foray into digital modeling. He is also preparing for Black Sabbath's final show, which is expected to feature a supergroup comprising Tool, Rage Against the Machine, and Smashing Pumpkins.
Other notable collaborations slated for 2025 include Plini and Tosin Abasi composing a song together in a day, modern metal duo Connor Kaminski and Keyan teaming up for a new EP, and an unexpected collaboration between Ed Sheeran, John Mayer, and Dave Grohl for a new Brad Pitt film.
While data suggests that 'BRITPOP' is set for release in the Autumn via Columbia Records, specific release dates have not been announced.
Interestingly, 'BRITPOP' is a nod to the Britpop era, during which Williams embarked on his solo career after leaving Take That. The album is anticipated to capture the essence of Britpop with a blend of pop and rock influences. Though details about additional collaborations are yet to be disclosed, the album is expected to include more guitars and a more upbeat, anthemic sound than Williams' previous work.
Williams will embark on a stadium tour starting May 31, 2025, in Edinburgh, covering several UK cities and subsequently moving into Europe. The tour promises to be a celebration of Williams' career and a showcase of his latest work, which includes the collaboration with Tony Iommi.
- Tony Iommi's electric guitar prowess is prominently showcased on the track featuring Robbie Williams, portraying a complementary blend of pop and heavy metal.
- Robbie Williams' upcoming album, 'BRITPOP,' is slated for release in the Autumn and is anticipated to capture the essence of Britpop with a blend of pop and rock influences, featuring more guitars and a more upbeat, anthemic sound than Williams' previous work.
- Besides Iommi, other artists are set to appear on Williams' album 'BRITPOP.'
- Williams' tour starting May 31, 2025, in Edinburgh, will be a celebratory showcase of his latest work, including his collaboration with Tony Iommi.
