Who knew that Latin-funk versions of Black Sabbath tunes would be so popular? No doubt the success of the first volume of Brown Sabbath was a surprise to Brownout, the eight-piece Grupo Fantasma spinoff responsible for this twisted concept.Far be it for them to pass up a good opportunity, thus Brown Sabbath Vol. II gives us eight more percussion-and-horn-driven interpretations of the legendary metal godfathers’ music. Sounding more confident and road-tested than the first time around, this collection leans heavier than its predecessor, to the distinct benefit of the end result. The pulse emphasized by the large-band arrangements is still there, but where the first volume felt like a funk band playing through metal charts (in the best way possible), this time around feels more like Brownout wholeheartedly embracing their inner headbangers. The guitars are louder, the drums hit harder, and even the selection of tunes leans more toward the higher-tempo end of Sabbath’s repertoire. Part of what always made Sabbath unique among their metal brethren was the inherent swing in their music, which makes it perfect for being subdivided by congas and shakers and punctuated by horn blasts. If you weren’t already familiar with the songs, then you might (correctly) think that Brownout is simply a super-heavy funk outfit; and for those who know the band well enough to have a preference between the Ozzy and Dio eras, the explosive takes on “Fairies Wear Boots” and “Sweet Leaf” are revelations.