BLACK SABBATH master of reality R12562
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Artist = BLACK SABBATH
Title = master of reality
Label = WARNER BROS.
Catalog# = R12562
Barcode = none
Release = USA
Year = 2010
RPM = 33rpm
Disc Size = 12"
Number of Discs = 1
Mono/Stereo = stereo
8trk, reissue
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A Heavy Metal Blueprint: Black Sabbath’s ‘Master Of Reality’ (R1 2562)
Today’s entry weighs in on one of the heaviest albums ever recorded. We are looking at the 2010 Rhino Vinyl reissue of Master Of Reality by Black Sabbath, released with the catalog number R1 2562.
Originally released in 1971, Master Of Reality is the album where Black Sabbath truly invented the template for doom metal and stoner rock. Seeking a heavier sound and easier string bending, guitarist Tony Iommi downtuned his guitar to C# (three semi-tones down), and bassist Geezer Butler followed suit. The result was a thicker, sludgier sound that was unparalleled at the time.
The album begins with the iconic loop of Tony Iommi coughing, leading into the ode to marijuana, Sweet Leaf. It features the thundering gallop of Children Of The Grave and the crushing, slow-motion riff of Into The Void, a song that remains a favorite of musicians to this day. The band also explores lighter textures with the acoustic instrumentals Orchid and Embryo, and the haunting ballad Solitude, showcasing their musical diversity beyond just heavy riffs.
For vinyl collectors and audiophiles, this Rhino Vinyl edition is a high-quality option. Released in 2010, it was pressed on 180-gram heavyweight vinyl. The marketing sticker proudly proclaims that the lacquers were cut from the original analog masters, ensuring the sound remains faithful to the 1971 tapes.
The packaging is a meticulous recreation of the original US release. It features the embossed cover art—where the band name and title are raised in relief—and includes a reproduction of the large folded poster of the band in a forest setting, an item often missing from vintage copies. The runout grooves indicate the lacquer was cut by Ron McMaster (marked as RM) and pressed at Rainbo Records. R1 2562 is widely regarded as a fantastic sounding and looking reissue for those who want a pristine copy of this metal milestone.