Black Sabbath Ready to Continue Without Founding Drummer

Facebook.com/BlackSabbathBlack Sabbath singer Ozzy Osbourne, guitarist Tony Iommi and bassist Geezer Butler have announced that they are prepared to move forward with their upcoming reunion album and tour without drummer Bill Ward.  The three rockers made the decision in response to a message Ward issued Thursday declaring that he wouldn't participate in the band's reunion activities unless he's offered a "signable contract."

A note from Ozzy, Iommi and Butler on Black Sabbath's official website reads, "We were saddened to hear yesterday…that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans.  We have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open."

The band mates added, "We are still in the UK with Tony.  Writing and recording the new album and on a roll.  See you at [the] Download [Festival]!!!"

Black Sabbath's upcoming tour is scheduled to kick off May 18 in Moscow and will stop at England's Download Festival on June 10.  A new studio album is expected to be released in the fall.

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