What to Know About the Singer on Tony Iommi's New Solo Album

Tony Iommi’s latest solo project, From the Dark, marks a significant collaboration with Norwegian singer Jorn Lande, a vocalist whose career spans several decades and diverse metal and rock projects. Far from a newcomer, Lande has co-written every track on the album, showcasing a deep creative synergy with the Black Sabbath guitarist that has evolved since their initial songwriting sessions in 2005.

Lande’s connection to Iommi and the legacy of Black Sabbath runs through pivotal moments in metal history. Notably, he performed at the 2010 memorial concert honoring Ronnie James Dio, the legendary vocalist who fronted Black Sabbath and later Heaven & Hell. At this tribute event held at London’s High Voltage Festival, Lande shared vocal duties with Glenn Hughes, bridging generations in metal with a heartfelt homage.

The album From the Dark also features contributions from drummer Karl Brazil, known for his work with mainstream artists Robbie Williams and James Blunt, demonstrating a blend of metal pedigree and versatile musicianship. On bass is Becky Baldwin, recognized for her role in Danish metal veterans Mercyful Fate, further solidifying the album’s connection to heavy metal’s rich heritage.

Jorn Lande’s musical journey began in the early 1990s when he led the band Vagabond, which included former members of the Norwegian rock outfit TNT. He later collaborated with notable figures from Whitesnake in The Snakes and was part of the power metal group Masterplan, formed by ex-members of Helloween. His career also includes work with the metal opera project Avantasia and a stint as the vocalist for Yngwie Malmsteen’s band in 2000, although that particular tour ended prematurely.

Lande’s admiration for Ronnie James Dio has been a defining influence throughout his career. Following Dio’s passing in 2010, he released a tribute album and a track titled "Song For Ronnie," reflecting the profound impact the late vocalist had on him personally and artistically. Their paths intersected during Lande’s time touring with Malmsteen, an encounter that deeply affected Lande’s approach to music and performance.

The thematic content of From the Dark reflects Lande’s lyrical style, which often explores existential themes and vivid imagery. For example, the tracks “Stormwatcher” and “Death Wake” delve into metaphorical narratives about human experience and emotional desolation, combining poetic lyricism with Iommi’s signature guitar work. This partnership has yielded an album that balances introspective storytelling with powerful metal instrumentation.

While some songs on the album may originate from earlier sessions between Iommi and Lande dating back to 2005, the material has remained unreleased until now. Their collaboration was briefly interrupted by the Heaven & Hell era and the passing of Dio, but the recent work suggests a renewed creative momentum between the two artists.

Lande has expressed gratitude for the opportunities given by Iommi and the wider Black Sabbath circle, highlighting the respect and camaraderie maintained over years of intermittent collaboration. Despite the uncertainties around further joint projects or live performances, Lande’s involvement in From the Dark signals a meaningful chapter in both his career and Iommi’s post-Black Sabbath endeavors.

Details beyond these core facts remain limited, but the album stands as a testament to the enduring influence of Ronnie James Dio and the lasting artistic relationships forged within the metal community. Jorn Lande’s role on From the Dark not only amplifies his vocal prowess but also cements his place alongside Tony Iommi as a key creative force in contemporary heavy metal.