Black Sabbath drummer out of non-Ozzy reunion

The lineup for the non-Ozzy Osbourne version of Black Sabbath appears to have changed. It was originally thought that singer Ronnie James Dio, guitarist Tony Iommi, bassist Geezer Butler, and drummer Bill Ward had joined up to tour as Heaven And Hell, but several reports now indicate that Ward has been replaced by Vinny Appice, who's played with Sabbath and with Dio in his solo band. The group is expected to do shows in North America next year, as well as festivals in Europe.

In addition, the group is recording a few new songs for a Dio-era Black Sabbath best-of that should come out next year. It's unknown if Ward or Appice appears on the tracks.

An official statement about the band is expected soon.

Osbourne has sent his best wishes to Heaven And Hell, while adding that the classic Black Sabbath lineup -- including Ward -- will release a new album and mount a tour late next year.

Heaven And Hell was the name of the first album Dio recorded with Black Sabbath, back in 1980.