Introduction
"Paranormal" is the 27th studio album by the famous American rock artist Alice Cooper. Released on July 28th, 2017, this album makes up 12 tracks, showcasing Cooper's style for theatricality and hard-rocking noises, while exploring different tones of darkness and the supernatural. Produced by Bob Ezrin, the album boasts a star-studded lineup of musicians, consisting of Billy Gibbons, Larry Mullen Jr., Roger Glover, Tommy Denander, and Steve Hunter, among others.
Music and Lyrical Themes
The album kicks off with the ominous and memorable title track, "Paranormal", which tells a story of supernatural encounters and an eerie fascination. Cooper's iconic snarl and grasping storytelling abilities are on full screen throughout the album, whether it includes tales of ghostly phantoms, ominous existences, or darker subjects like murder and loss of sanity.
Musically, "Paranormal" is a rollercoaster trip of hard rock, classic rock, and even touches of hard rock and progressive influences. From the electrifying riffs of "Dead Flies" and "Paranoiac Personality" to the haunting ballad "The Sound of A", Cooper's unmistakable voice and fondness for memorable hooks are as strong as ever. Nevertheless, some tracks like "Dynamite Road" and "Fireball" drift away from the typical theatrical rock sound, explore different paces and designs.
Prominent guitarists Billy Gibbons and Steve Hunter grace the album with their distinct playing styles, adding an extra layer of vibrant energy to tracks like "Fallen In Love" and "Fireball". U2's Larry Mullen Jr. handles the drumming on the entire album, showcasing his prowess across numerous rhythms and beats.
Reception and Legacy
"Paranormal" received important praise, with many praising Cooper's capability to produce a contemporary-sounding album that still embodies the classic Alice Cooper spirit. The album debuted at number 6 on the UK Albums Chart, making it his highest charting album in the UK considering that 1991's "Hey Stoopid". It likewise arrived on different other charts worldwide, including the United States Billboard 200 at number 32, and the German and Swiss Albums Charts at numbers 4 and 6, respectively.
The album's tradition depends on its successful fusion of modern and traditional aspects, as well as Cooper's long-lasting creativity and energy, showing that he still has much to use to the world of rock music. "Paranormal" was followed by an extensive world tour, called "A Paranormal Evening with Alice Cooper", which marveled fans through powerful live efficiencies and theatrics.
Special Edition: Live and Studio Bonus Tracks
A special edition of "Paranormal" was launched, including 3 extra brand-new studio recordings - "Genuine American Girl", "You and All of Your Friends" and "No More Mr. Nice Guy" - along with 6 live tracks from a 2016 performance in Columbus, Ohio. This benefit content showcases Cooper's outstanding variety as a songwriter and his capability to mesmerize live audiences, with vibrant renditions of some of his timeless hits like "School's Out" and "Billion Dollar Babies".
Conclusion:
"Paranormal" is a testament to Alice Cooper's importance and influence worldwide of rock music. Providing his fans a taste of both the newer and more classic aspects that specify his style, this album shows that Cooper's artistry and musical expertise stay vital and appropriate, even after years of amusing audiences. As a whole, "Paranormal" is an important addition to the discography of one of rock's most iconic and remaining godfathers.
Artist: Alice Cooper
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