It's unfortunate that Cross Purposes (1994) was released when it was (after Dio's departure), thereby reverting us back to the Tony Martin style that became the norm starting with The Eternal Idol in 1987. Some people were elated when Dio rejoined the band to record Dehumanizer, but it turned out to be a disruption of continuity, and Tony Iommi admits that he should have never disrupted things. Consequently, this album suffered from lack of sales due to a disenchanted Dio fan base who were expecting more releases from the Dio lineup, coupled with the Tony Martin fans who perhaps lost track of things when Dehumanizer was going on. Despite all of this, the album shines on many fronts. I think that Tony Martin was his best on this one, and Geezer Butler adds his signature doom and gloom bass to the songs. I particularly like the songs IMMACULATE DECEPTION, VIRTUAL DEATH, PSYCHOPHOBIA, and DYING FOR LOVE, which is a rare ballad from these guys. Virtual Death has really grown on me through the years. This is a balanced effort that rocks, and the subject matter is vintage Martin all the way. I WITNESS is the perfect starter, and is a great jam. I recommend this album to those who thought that Tony Martin's contributions to Black Sabbath were commendable and worthy; I certainly think that he did a good job overall, with the exception of Forbidden (1995). I think that this album edges Headless Cross and The Eternal Idol.