First Posted: 12/16/2014

The jazz element of Black Sabbath in its initial years was undeniable.

Bill Ward and Geezer Butler swung as much as they bashed for a hard rock rhythm section.

Tony Iommi’s guitar playing could have heavied up an extended jam with Miles’ electric band (imagine?). It’s shocking given just how well their music lends itself to more creative representations beyond the cliched metal and punk tributes, which makes this infinitely fun set by Austin, Texas, psych-funk ensemble Brownout such a blast.

Working under the name Brown Sabbath, they largely stay true to the original versions of such Sab nuggets as “The Wizard” and “Hand of Doom”, the latter of which features guest vocals from Alex Mass of Black Angels fame. But it’s the moments when the Browns really get into that jazz element of the Birmingham legends when this tribute album truly takes off, digging their heels into the likes of “Fairies Wear Boots” and a mind-boggling version of “Planet Caravan” with singer David Jimenez.

Though it may have started out as an inside joke, Brownout proves just how dead serious they are about their love for Black Sabbath on this impressive set.