In the winter of 1999/2000, Zakk and Philth headed to the studio in California to cut their sophomore effort "Stronger Than Death." Mike Piazza, catcher for the NY Mets was hanging with them in the studio, and recorded backing vocals/growls on the title track. Axl Rose was actually in the studio next to theirs and hung out with them on several occasions, but no collaboration occurred. Phil did all of the artwork yet again on the album. Stronger Than Death was released in Japan on March 8th 2000 and in the United States on April 18th 2000. J.D. decided to leave the band to pursue other interests, and he was replaced by Steve "S.O.B." Gibb, son of Berry Gibb from the BeeGees. Black Label Society kicked off the Penchant For Violence tour in Japan on June 14th, 2000. The band was playing new songs from Stronger Than Death, songs from Sonic Brew, and an amazing cover of Ozzy's "Demon Alcohol."
Source:
http://www.blacklabelsociety.net/frame.htm