The search is on for new Ozzy

LIFE as an Ozzy Osbourne clone has its dangers, as Russ Saxton of tribute band Sack Sabbath explained.

"Our frontman Ozzy Oddbin has fallen off stage a couple of times, jumped over monitors into the orchestra pit; he's bitten the heads off (rubber) bats that people have thrown on stage… you name it," says Russ.

Which is maybe why he's decided to take a breather, prompting Russ to search for a new Ozzy.

Sack Sabbath have, since their formation in December 2002, established themselves as the best and most authentic Black Sabbath tribute in Europe and have travelled the length and breadth of the UK, appearing at major European festivals in front of thousands.

They have also appeared on national TV (Five's Gadget Show), on BBC radio and been featured in Classic Rock as one of the UK's finest rock tributes. Ozzy Oddbin will be leaving the band after the summer's festival gigs are over to devote his time to family commitments.

So a new recruit is needed.

Applicants will need to be able to replicate the look and sound of Ozzy Osbourne and, just as essentially, they must be a good frontman to be able to captivate an audience.

Any aspiring Ozzys must also have ability, dedication and be willing to tour, says Russ.

Ideally the frontman will live in the Nottingham/Derby region and own transport is a must.

"The travelling is the hardest thing," says Russ.

"We played this gig in Belgium. We were 14 hours on a coach, queued for an hour to play, then the journey back! It was worth it to play in front of thousands of people, though. That was one of the best experiences we've had."

Contact Russ on 07903 610487 or email russ@sacksabbath.co.uk for a chat and more details.