Heavy metal icon Tony Iommi brought the global spotlight back to Birmingham on Wednesday, June 29, by announcing his new album, From The Dark, at the Actress and Bishop pub in the Jewellery Quarter. The Black Sabbath guitarist, known as the Godfather of Heavy Metal, chose the Ludgate Hill venue to premiere his latest single, World Alone, exactly one week after the sound of his riffs filled the city during the inaugural Ozzy Day celebrations.
The Actress and Bishop: A Crucible for Birmingham's Music Scene
Since opening its doors in 2003, the Actress and Bishop has become a cornerstone of Birmingham's live music scene. Iommi, who formed Black Sabbath alongside Ozzy Osbourne, Bill Ward, and Geezer Butler, emphasised the venue's role in nurturing local talent. 'The city has always been a huge part of who I am as both a person and a musician,' he told BirminghamLive. 'Growing up in the city there weren't a lot of clubs for new bands to cut their teeth in when they first started to play gigs, but there were sports halls and back rooms in pubs. However, the rooms had nothing in them so you had to bring your own PA system in and drag all your friends along to try and make it worthwhile.'
'That's why a venue like the Actress and Bishop is so important to the city now. It's a space where young bands can come and play in a proper environment, and learn the ropes. It's great to be able to come and support a venue, that itself supports new music in the city.'
New Album and Collaborations Rooted in Birmingham
Iommi's new album From The Dark features a line-up of handpicked musicians with strong connections to the city. Bassist Becky Baldwin has performed multiple shows at the Actress and Bishop, and drummer Karl Brazil also has longstanding ties to Birmingham. 'It feels really appropriate to be here, especially as we recorded some of From The Dark on the outskirts of the city,' Iommi added. The album also showcases the vocal talents of Norwegian singer Jorn Lande, whom Iommi invited to experience the city that shaped his music. 'There really is nowhere quite like Birmingham!' he declared.
The guitar legend continues to maintain close links with Birmingham, supporting local hospitals and collaborating with the Birmingham Royal Ballet. He also recalled last year's 'Back To The Beginning' show, describing it as 'very special'.
Single Release and Album Details
Tony Iommi's new single World Alone is now available on YouTube. The full album From The Dark is scheduled for release on BMG on October 23, 2026. With the Actress and Bishop as its launchpad, the album reaffirms Iommi's enduring bond with the city that gave birth to heavy metal.
