Alice Cooper
Killer

"Killer," one of the most fascinating albums by Alice Cooper and, consequently, one of the classic rock albums of the '70s. Varied, rich, and stimulating, it starts strong with "Under My Wheels" and "Be My Lover," two magnificent hard rock tracks that are very captivating. They are certainly not the most original part of the album, but they remain a decidedly pleasurable listen (it's no coincidence that they are two of the most successful singles extracted). The diversity of tone between the two tracks is also appreciable, the first more aggressive, ironic, and suggestive, the second more romantic and nostalgic. But it's with the third track that Alice Cooper decides to surprise us, and here comes "Halo of Flies," a long homage (eight minutes) to progressive and experimental rock, full of shifts, deviations, rock sections flanked by almost synth-like others. All accompanied by a highly cryptic, spy-themed text that masterfully expresses the electrifying and mysterious atmosphere of this track. A further unexpected style change occurs with "Desperado," an emotional portrait of a Wild West killer; an almost folk track, without the biting electric guitar riffs but instead with delicate string sections. Moving is the tribute that Furnier wanted to pay with this track to a dear departed friend, the late Jim Morrison. Following are "You Drive Me Nervous" and "Yeah, Yeah," pleasant hard rock songs that nonetheless pale in comparison to the overwhelming energy of the first two tracks and the lively experiments of the other four. The album soon returns to great heights with "Dead Babies," the story of a girl who died after accidentally ingesting aspirin, ignored by her own parents. A dark and sick piece (it seems the gothic atmosphere was suggested by producer Bob Ezrin), memorable from the great bass-driven start to the chorus shouted by Furnier's raspy voice, preceded by a chilling child's lament. It ends with the title track, an unsettling snapshot of a sick mind, supported once again by almost prog sounds, like the organ section, which seems straight out of an ELP song. Indeed, a varied record, catering to all tastes, bizarre and unpredictable, as in the best tradition of Alice Cooper. Highly recommended listening for rock lovers.