Black Sabbath bassist Geezer Butler says Tony Iommi is inspiring the rest of the band to work harder as they rehearse new songs for their upcoming album. The guitarist has already written two songs since being diagnosed with lymphoma earlier this month.

“I must say it has given us all a kick up the rump,” Butler said in a post at his website. “It’s great to hear him churning out those riffs again, assuaging the Demon C. Takes more than that to stop Tony.” Yesterday (Jan. 19) the band returned to work on the project, their first with Ozzy Osbourne since in 33 years.

“Can’t wait for you all to hear our workings, it has been great working on this stuff.”

The 63-year-old metal legend is working with doctors to treat the lymphoma, but Butler says Iommi’s spirits are high. The disease was caught in the early stages, but treatment could push back plans for a summer tour in advance of the Fall 2012 release. Yesterday it was announced they would still play England’s Download Festival on June 10.

“I want to thank the lovely encouraging emails sent to this site giving Tony love and encouragement and great vibes,” Butler adds in the post.” It really does help, not only Tony, but us as a band- it raises up our spirits and restores our faith in this tarnished world.”

“Sabb fans are good people, time and again you have proven your faith in us and boosted our endeavour.”

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