Any conversations about the finest modern day guitarists begin and end with Black Label Society virtuoso Zakk Wylde. The band’s frontman and former guitarist for Ozzy Osbourne for the better part of two decades is a Bayonne, New Jersey native with more than a dozen releases of original material under his belt since forming the band in 1999. In April, Black Label Society releases their first album of new material in more than four years, a process as you’ll learn, that doesn’t take as long as you’d imagine from start to finish, once you hear a sample of Wylde’s tasty licks.

The album entitled “Catacombs of the Black Vatican” sounds to be an extension of the band’s previous efforts- which is surely a good thing for any true fans of metal. But in the midst of its release, Black Label Society underwent a lineup shift as long time guitarist Nick Catanese recently stepped aside to focus on his solo efforts and Lizzy Borden’s Dario Lorina enters the band for the first time. Following a stint out on the “Experience Hendrix Tour” alongside such six string luminaries as Jonny Lang, Kenny Wayne Shepherd and Buddy Guy, Black Label Society has begun mapping out plans for a full on world tour that begins in the United States, currently slated to run from April to June. After that, the band’s summer plans are anyone’s guess but some international dates and the festival circuit certainly seems likely for the group, led by their iconic guitarist and frontman.

LocalBozo.com was fortunate enough to sit down with legendary metal guitarist Zakk Wylde for an interview that is both funny and candid and exposes the masterful musician as a humble, down to earth rock star who both has an appreciation for where he’s come from and almost downplays his place in the genre. Listen in as we discuss the new shift in the lineup of Black Label Society, the writing of “Catacombs of the Black Vatican,” his most recent run at the Iridium here in Manhattan back in June of 2013, the artists that inspire his incredible versions of cover songs, and recorded just days before NFL Championship weekend, Wylde not only correctly picks the Super Bowl matchup but also makes his prediction for the Big Game. It’s an introspective and fun conversation with one of the most recognizable rock figures of this era and it’s all here, on LocalBozo.com. Black Label Society makes a stop locally at New York City’s Best Buy Theater on Saturday, May 10th and tickets are available now!

- Jane Van Arsdale