Changes – 2009 Remaster – Black Sabbath
Release date: 1972-09-25
Long before the rise of post-grunge and alternative rock, Black Sabbath was already breaking new ground. With their fourth studio album, “Vol. 4,” released on September 25, 1972, the band took a bold step in a different direction — none more so than with the haunting ballad “Changes.”
The 2009 remaster of “Changes” breathes new life into this emotional track, which showcases Black Sabbath’s surprising sensitivity. While best known as pioneers of heavy metal, here the band strips away the thunderous guitars in favor of a somber piano melody and heartfelt lyrics about loss and transformation. Ozzy Osbourne’s vulnerable vocal delivery pairs beautifully with the minimalist instrumentation, offering an unexpected introspective moment within an otherwise heavy-hitting album.
For fans of modern rock and metal — particularly those who appreciate the emotional transparency found in post-grunge or alternative acts — “Changes” offers a powerful precursor to that style. It emphasizes atmosphere over aggression and emotion over distortion, making it both an anomaly and a standout in Sabbath’s repertoire.
Whether you’re new to Black Sabbath or revisiting their legacy, this track is a must-listen. Experience “Changes – 2009 Remaster” below and see how one song can redefine what you thought you knew about metal.
