Alice Cooper’s Killer and School’s Out are iconic albums that showcase the theatricality, dark humor, and rebellious spirit that have defined Alice Cooper’s career. Released in 1971 and 1972, respectively, these albums solidified Cooper’s reputation as a pioneer of shock rock and cemented his place in rock music history. Now, with remastered sound, rare extras, and previously unreleased live performances, Deluxe Editions of both Killer and School’s Out have been reissued as double-CD and triple-LP sets.
Killer is a masterful blend of hard rock, glam, and theatrical elements. It opens with the sinister and instantly recognizable track “Under My Wheels,” setting the tone for the album’s gritty and darkly humorous atmosphere. Tracks like “Be My Lover” and “Desperado” showcase Cooper’s vocal prowess and ability to create catchy, anthemic rock songs. The album also includes the epic and haunting ballad “Halo of Flies,” which demonstrates the band’s musical versatility and experimental tendencies. Killer is a cohesive and powerful album that exemplifies Cooper’s ability to shock and entertain simultaneously. The Deluxe Edition includes the original release, freshly remastered. Alternate takes of “You Drive Me Nervous,” “Under My Wheels,” and “Dead Babies” are included along with the band’s live performance from Mar Y Sol Pop Festival in Puerto Rico on April 2, 1972. Most of Killer was covered as well as live versions of “Is It My Body?,” “Long Way To Go,” and “I’m Eighteen.”
School’s Out is Alice Cooper’s most commercially successful album, with the iconic title track becoming an anthem for rebellious youth. The album captures the rebellious and mischievous spirit of adolescence, with tracks like “Public Animal #9” and “Gutter Cat vs. The Jets” exuding raw energy and attitude. The album’s closing track, “Grande Finale,” incorporates elements of rock, jazz, and classical music, showcasing Cooper’s penchant for theatricality and elaborate arrangements. School’s Out is an album that perfectly captures the rebellious and youthful spirit of its time and has remained a timeless classic. The Deluxe Edition has a remastered version of the original album, plus the single versions of “School’s Out” and “Gutter Cat vs. The Jets.” There’s also an alternate version of “Alma Mater” and an early demo for “Elected,” which would land on 1973’s Billion Dollar Babies. Live selections from a May 27, 1972, show include “Halo Of Flies,” “School’s Out,” and “Yeah, Yeah, Yeah.”
The packaging for the vinyl versions is also covered down to the smallest detail. the gatefold sleeve of Killer features a detachable 1972 calendar. The LPs inside of School’s Out looks are wrapped in a pair of panties, which were part of the original package until they pulled for safety reasons. In terms of production, both Killer and School’s Out have a raw and gritty sound that enhances the albums’ edginess and authenticity. The albums encapsulate the essence of the early 1970s rock scene, with their raw and unpolished production adding to their charm.
Killer and School’s Out are essential albums that have had a significant impact on the rock music landscape. They showcase Cooper’s theatricality, musicality, and ability to create anthemic and memorable rock songs. These albums are a testament to Cooper’s enduring legacy and his status as one of rock music’s most influential and enduring figures. As Deluxe Editions, they bring a whole lot more to the table for collectors and fans.
~ Oswald Burns
