Ozzy Osbourne

Lyrics

[Intro: Laughter]

[Verse 1]
Astral engines in reverse
I'm falling through the universe again
Down among a dead man's vision
Faded dreams and nuclear fission span

[Chorus 1]
The strings of theory are holding up the race
The puppets falling to the ground
The love I feel as I fly endlessly through space
Lost in time I wonder, "will my ship be found?"

[Verse 2]
On this sinking ship I travel
Faster than the speed of light
Not so supernova burns
The black holes turn and fade from sight

[Chorus 2]
The strings of theory hide in the human race
The answers buried underground
The love I feel as I fly endlessly through space
Lost in time I wonder, "will my ship be found?"
[Outro]
And very soon
The bomber's moon
Will show us light
And as we crash
We'll pray and kiss
And say goodnight
Goodnight

Black Sabbath’s song “Zeitgeist” is a captivating track that stands out for its mellow and ethereal vibe. Featured on their album “13,” the song showcases the band's versatility and musical prowess. It has drawn comparisons to their classic track “Planet Caravan” from the album “Paranoid,” due to its processed vocals, spacey motif, and evocative guitar solo reminiscent of Django Reinhardt. But what does the title “Zeitgeist” actually mean?

The word “Zeitgeist” is of German origin, derived from “Zeit,” meaning “time,” and “Geist,” meaning “spirit.” It refers to the dominant moral or intellectual school of thought prevalent in a particular culture during a specific period. This concept of capturing the essence of an era aligns perfectly with the atmosphere and message conveyed in the song.

About Zeitgeist

"Zeitgeist" encapsulates the essence of Black Sabbath's ability to explore different musical territories while maintaining their distinctive sound. The song's atmosphere is hypnotic, drawing listeners into a dreamlike state. It is undeniably the most subdued track on the album, offering a glimpse into a softer side of the band's repertoire.

The processed vocals in "Zeitgeist" create a haunting and otherworldly ambiance. They add depth and texture to the song, enhancing the overall atmospheric quality. The spacey motif, reminiscent of their earlier track "Planet Caravan," further enhances the psychedelic elements of the song, transporting the listener to an ethereal realm.

The guitar solo in "Zeitgeist" is a standout moment. Inspired by the legendary Django Reinhardt, it showcases the band's technical skill and creativity. The solo floats effortlessly over the atmospheric backdrop, adding a sense of serenity and contemplation. It serves as a beautiful contrast to the band's trademark heavy and powerful guitar-driven sound.

Lyrically, "Zeitgeist" conveys a message of reflection and introspection. The lyrics invite listeners to contemplate the passing of time and the impact of societal currents on their lives. Black Sabbath's characteristic lyrical depth is evident in lines such as "Watching the world, drifting away / Observing the chaos, recovering from decay" which encourage listeners to ponder the state of the world.

The song's overall structure is carefully crafted. It begins gently, gradually building in intensity as the instrumentation layers and the vocals become more pronounced. This gradual progression mirrors the concept of time unfolding, capturing the essence of an ever-changing world.

The band's meticulous attention to detail and their ability to create a captivating sonic atmosphere are evident throughout the song. The instrumentation, including the hauntingly beautiful piano and the steady and deliberate drum beats, blend seamlessly to create a cohesive and mesmerizing listening experience.

"Zeitgeist" is a testament to Black Sabbath's enduring legacy as pioneers of heavy metal. While the song showcases a departure from their signature hard-hitting sound, it exemplifies their ability to experiment and push musical boundaries. It serves as a reminder that even within the realm of heavy metal, artistic exploration and innovation are always possible.

In essence, "Zeitgeist" by Black Sabbath is a captivating and introspective track that combines ethereal melodies, dreamlike vocals, and a thought-provoking message. It showcases the band's diverse range and their ability to captivate listeners with their musical prowess. Whether you are a die-hard Black Sabbath fan or simply exploring different genres, "Zeitgeist" is a must-listen. Allow yourself to be transported to a time and space where music and introspection merge in perfect harmony.

So, take a moment out of your day, close your eyes, and let the haunting beauty of "Zeitgeist" wash over you. Experience the spirit of the era through Black Sabbath's masterful music.

• Release Date: June 10, 2013
• Artist: Ozzy Osbourne