Any rock fans out there?

@ Moonglum: Nice review. What does MRA mean?

@ Captain_winters: I do have the UK WWA of 'Paranoid.' I found it to be better sound-wise than the WB green label. I also have 'Never Say Die!' on the UK Vertigo label. That sounds good too. All the other ones with Ozzy Osbourne on vocals I have on the Warner Brothers label. These are all originals, as far as I know. So, if '13' is that good, I will buy it. Hell, I was gonna buy it anyway! Now I have no doubts.

Cheers Dave....BTW, MRA refers to Mould Release Agent which is a chemical embedded in the vinyl compound to prevent the LPs sticking to the mould when they are manufactured.
There used to be a great debate, years ago, about whether to clean the stuff off the surface after it had settled (apparently vinyl can continue to "express" MRA for year/s afterwards...)
Some felt it acted as a stylus "lubricant" and refused to clean it while others maintained it was destructive/obstructive and must be removed at all costs.

The latter argument is probably a safe bet however it doesn't always manifest itself in an intrusive way. It probably depends on whether they got the formula right? (I'm no chemist so I hope those that are will forgive any misconceptions on my part - and should feel free to add to our knowledge on the subject :)
On the other hand, occasionally, I've seen/heard LPs that actually sounded damaged(!)- mistracking severely on peaks etc - and the only explanation was MRA. Once this was thoroughly removed the LP would play flawlessly.
All the best.....

Oh ok, thanks for the explanation on that. Hmm...yeah, I just might have records like you described. What is your method for cleaning, may I ask?

Dave_72,
I use the AIVS 3-step regimen on new (and used) records. The first step is pre-soaking with the Enzymatic Formula that helps remove any release compounds. AIVS also makes Formula 15, which is designed for tough cleaning jobs, including removal of the MRA. I highly recommend AIVS products. I've been using them for years now and I absolutely love them. Jim Pendleton, who is the designer and owner of AIVS, also sells record cleaning brushes through his company Osage Audio, and I think they are the best brushes on the market. I have no affiliation with Jim other than a great experience as a customer.

Regarding Bill Ward, my understanding was that there was some sort of a contractual dispute that resulted in him not participating in the making of the new album. Interesting that you heard it was related to his drumming.