Original vinyl pressing, Warner Brothers Records.

Although it still contained elements of their two preceding albums' heavy metal garage rock, Alice Cooper's 1972 release SCHOOL'S OUT expanded on the more progressive material of '71s KILLER (i.e., its title track and "Halo of Flies"). The majority of the songs were more sophisticated than the group's past work, with greater use of dynamics. The band was working under tight a deadline to complete the album, but it's certainly no half-hearted rush job--it was their third powerful release in a row, and their first top 10 hit (peaking at #2 on the U.S. album charts).

The title song, a top ten single, is a great, fist-pumping rock & roll anthem. By merging one of the most identifiable and memorable guitar riffs ever (courtesy of the late Glen Buxton) with snide lyrics and a sing-along chorus, the song was a punk-metal masterpiece. While the album's remaining songs may not be as immediately familiar, many a gem can be found. "My Stars," "Luney Tune," "Alma Mater," and "Gutter Cat Vs. the Jets" are all underrated Cooper classics, the latter even containing snippets of musical themes from WEST SIDE STORY!