We reported yesterday (Feb. 2) that original Black Sabbath drummer Bill Ward posted a statement threatening to withdraw from the band’s reunion plans due to a what he deemed a series of “unsignable” contracts. Now, the rest of the band has announced that they will proceed with their reunion plans with or without Ward in the lineup.

Black Sabbath’s other original members, Tony Iommi, Ozzy Osbourne and Geezer Butler, posted the following statement earlier today (Feb. 3) on their official website:

We were saddened to hear yesterday via Facebook that Bill declined publicly to participate in our current Black Sabbath plans… we have no choice but to continue recording without him although our door is always open… We are still in the UK with Tony. Writing and recording the new album and on a roll… See you at Download!!!

- Tony, Ozzy and Geezer”

Black Sabbath have not announced any news regarding who will man the drums for their upcoming album and tour if Bill Ward does in fact decide not to return to the fold. Stay tuned as further news develops.

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