This 2-sided, framed limited-edition Picture Disc presentation measures approx. 19”h x 19” wide overall, and features custom-cut matting on both sides and a 1.5” black, bevel-cut frame with plexiglass on both sides (so that you can easily see both sides of the disc - see back side photo, below). The front of the picture disc shows photographer Nitin Vadukul’s awesome cover shot, while the back shows the record’s back cover image.
One from an edition of 100 total numbered presentations, published by Filmcells Ltd & Collectors World Int’l, Ltd., with COA on back and engraved informational plaque up front that includes a track listing. Approx. 5lbs. shipping weight.
Down to Earth was a 2001 solo record released by Ozzy Osbourne on Epic Records, with cover images by famed photographer Nitin Vadukul.
Metal fans waited impatiently for 6 years for a follow-up to Ozzy’s 1995 hit album Ozzmosis, being rewarded in late 2001 with a new studio recording.
Of course, during that period, Ozzy was far from inactive, focusing a lot of time and energy on shepherding the successful Ozzfest tours. Beginning in 1996, Osbourne’s traveling show has introduced fans of all subsets of metal/hard rock music to a wide range of acts, including Godsmack, Slipknot, Korn, Limp Bizkit, Linkin Park, System of a Down and Velvet Revolver (until 2006, Ozzy typically headlined either as a solo performer or as part of a reunited Black Sabbath, sharing the Main Stage with other top acts such as Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Pantera, Marilyn Manson and Megadeth.)
Working for the first time on a solo project without the aid of Black Sabbath cohort Geezer Butler, he surrounded himself with a supergroup of supporters, including Zakk Wylde on guitar, Suicidal Tendencies’ (and, after, Metallica’s) Rob Trujillo on bass and Faith No More’s drummer Mike Bordin on drums. The resulting recording highlighted all aspects of Ozzy’s songwriting expertise, serving up fine examples of what keeps fans happy – from straight-up metal in songs like “Gets Me Through” and “Facing Hell” to introspective ballads such as “You Know” and “Dreamer”.
And so, when Sony Records and Sharon Osbourne asked photographer Nitin Vadukul (well-known for his photos of a wide range of other artists - from Radiohead and Moby to Mudvayne and Korn, as well as Dr. Dre and Eminem - to come up with an image for the cover of Ozzy’s upcoming record release, the guidance he was given was to “think dark” (he is the Master of Darkness, isn’t he?). The result was the smashing success you see featured here on this Picture Disc presentation.
