Alice Cooper’s Retaliation – Norwegian Rock Magazine
Alice Cooper’s latest album, “The Revenge of Alice Cooper,” marks a significant reunion as the original band members come together for their first studio record since 1973’s “Muscle of Love.” Although now in their late 70s, bassist Dennis Dunaway, rhythm guitarist Michael Bruce, and drummer Neil Smith have embarked on a new musical venture with Mr. Cooper, a legendary artist known for his extensive discography. The question remains: will this new collaboration tarnish his well-established legacy?
The album kicks off with “Black Mamba,” setting the tone with a sinister bass line and classic Cooper theatrics, featuring a guest appearance by Robby Kreiger of The Doors on guitar. Following this, the fiery and fast-paced rocker “Wild Ones” delivers energy, leading into the Black Sabbath-inspired groove of “Up All Night.” The grotesque narrative of “Kill the Flies” reminiscent of “Steven” from 1975’s “Welcome to my Nightmare” injects a sense of dark humor as Cooper menacingly declares his disdain for pesky flies. Transitioning from the theater to a cinematic experience akin to a Tarantino film, “One Night Stand” sees Cooper shifting his vocal approach to a lower pitch, embodying the role of a narrator.
The album’s standout track, the epic six-minute “Blood on the Sun,” showcases the band’s remarkable musical prowess, with Neil Smith’s drumming prowess taking center stage. The dynamic vocal shift continues with Cooper’s raw attitude on the straightforward rocker “Crap That Gets In The Way Of Your Dreams.” Accessible tracks like “Famous Face” deliver a catchy, heavy riff flirting with heavy metal influences. Cooper’s versatile vocals shine through on “Money Screams,” channeling Joey Ramone of The Ramones. “What a Syd” pays homage to the band’s classic sound, reminiscent of “Gutter Cat vs. The Jets” from 1972’s “School’s Out,” while “Inter Galactic Vagabond Blues” introduces a bluesy harmonica that complements the scorching guitar work.
The album seamlessly bridges the past and present with the punk-infused “What Happened To You,” featuring a guitar part from the late Glen Buxton, skillfully integrated from an old demo. The raucous cover of Yardsbirds’ “I Ain’t Done Wrong” channels a vibrant energy akin to “Jailhouse Rock,” showcasing the band’s enduring dexterity. Concluding with the heartfelt ballad “See You On The Other Side,” reminiscent of Cooper’s softer side on “From the Inside,” the album offers a satisfying conclusion to the musical journey.
Despite a modern production approach enhancing the album’s sound, courtesy of co-producer Bob Ezrin, the essence of vintage ’70s shock-rock is preserved with a contemporary twist. With a total of sixteen songs, “The Revenge of Alice Cooper” showcases a man who has nothing left to prove, yet continues to captivate listeners with his unyielding creativity. Undoubtedly, the album affirms that Cooper’s legacy remains untarnished, delivering a triumphant musical experience filled with eclectic characters and compelling narratives that captivate fans old and new.