Album: Constrictor

Introduction
"Constrictor" is the ninth solo studio album by American rock artist Alice Cooper, released on September 22, 1986. Following a three-year hiatus from the music scene marked by a battle with alcoholism, Cooper went back to the general public eye with a fresh noise and renewed energy, marking the beginning of his transition from shock-rock to heavy metal. Produced by Michael Wagener and dispersed by MCA Records, the album features visitor musicians consisting of Kane Roberts on guitar, David Rosenberg on drums, and Donnie Kisselbach on bass.

Background and Recording
Alice Cooper had actually taken a break from music given that the release of his 1983 album "DaDa", following his treatment for alcoholism at a rehab facility. This duration gave him time to show and reassess his musical instructions, ultimately leading to his return with "Constrictor". The recording sessions took place at the Power Station studio in New York City, with producer Michael Wagener, who had actually formerly dealt with bands like Dokken and Metallica.

During these sessions, Cooper collaborated with several significant musicians, consisting of guitarist Kane Roberts, who would become a crucial part of his band for numerous years. The album's sound was heavily affected by the glam metal scene of the mid-1980s, both musically and aesthetically, with Cooper and atrioventricular bundle members sporting leather coats, teased hair, and bold makeup.

Music and Lyrics
"Constrictor" marked a stylistic departure from Alice Cooper's previous albums, adopting a more uncomplicated and heavier sound influenced by the popular glam metal and acid rock of the time. Many of the album's tracks include frenetic guitar riffs and powerful drumming, showcasing the talents of Roberts and Rosenberg. The album includes a mix of aggressive tracks like "Teenage Frankenstein" and "He's Back (The Man Behind the Mask)", along with ballads like "Thrill My Gorilla" and "Life and the Death of the Party".

Cooper's lyrics on the album tackle numerous themes, consisting of teenage disobedience, violence, and horror, with his hallmark dark humor and wit. The album's lead single, "He's Back (The Man Behind the Mask)", was written as the theme song for the horror film "Friday the 13th Part VI: Jason Lives" and has actually become one of Cooper's most popular tracks from this age.

Reception and Legacy
Upon its release, "Constrictor" received blended evaluations from critics, who often praised Cooper's return to form and the album's energy, however slammed its generic heavy metal sound. However, the album amassed a strong cult following and added to renewing Cooper's career in the late 1980s. "Constrictor" peaked at number 59 on the Billboard 200 chart, and the singles "He's Back (The Man Behind the Mask)" and "Teenage Frankenstein" received substantial airplay on MTV.

In the years given that its release, "Constrictor" has actually been recognized as a substantial album in Alice Cooper's discography, representing his effective return and shift into heavy metal. The album has become a fan favorite, and numerous of its tracks continue to be consisted of in Cooper's live performances. Overall, "Constrictor" works as a testimony to Alice Cooper's long-lasting relevance and flexibility in the ever-changing world of rock music.