It has been rumored for some time, but yesterday it has been made official: the original Black Sabbath line-up is back together for a new tour (their first together since 1997) and their first full studio album since 1978′s Never Say Die. The press conference announcement — embedded at the bottom of this post — was hosted by Henry Rollins, a long-time Sabbath fan.

The next Black Sabbath release is to be produced by Rick Rubin, famous for his work with Slayer, for his work with Johnny Cash during the Man In Black’s final years, and bringing Metallica back to form with their Death Magnetic album.

The new album will be recorded and released in 2012, trailed by a tour that is to include a performance at the UK Download Festival in June.

Black Sabbath was originally formed in 1968, and their debut self-titled album released in 1970. They have become the foundation of heavy metal music, and have been extensively influential to all the metal subgenres that have since evolved.

After original vocalist Ozzy Osbourne departed from the band, Sabbath worked with other legendary metal vocalists including Ronnie James Dio and Ian Gillan. Each have given a distinct essence and feel to the band, while staying close to the roots originally established by the first line-up.

During the years in which Black Sabbath comprised of guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, drummer Bill Ward, and singer Ozzy Osbourne, the band became known for songs such as “Iron Man,” “The Wizard,” “Paranoid,” and “Children of the Grave.”

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[Sources: Revolver | Blabbermouth]