“War Pigs” has been rattling speakers since 1970, and this Drumeo breakdown hosted by Brandon Toews finally explains exactly why Bill Ward’s drumming on the track feels so crushing, tracing the jazz techniques, Buddy Rich hi-hat tricks, and unlikely funk beats that Ward borrowed from his background to create a drum part unlike anything else happening in heavy music at the time. It’s a compelling argument for Ward as Black Sabbath’s secret weapon, and essential viewing for anyone who’s ever wondered why that band sounds like no one else.


