Blue Öyster Cult

The 1960s were over. Flower power had given way to grimmer realities and a new generation of hard rock bands was ready to party in its shadow. Long Island’s Blue Oyster Cult embraced the weirdness and deliberate mysticism of the era with obscure imagery, obtuse lyrics and chord patterns that swirled around minor key epiphanies. The band had previously kicked around in various incarnations, recording but never releasing several debut albums for a variety of labels, but in 1971 their day had come and *Blue Oyster Cult* exploded with concepts that have now become a natural part of the rock vernacular. “Cites on Flame with Rock n’ Roll” is the obvious stage anthem, but it’s the otherworldly effects of “Transmaniacon MC,” “I’m On The Lamb But I Ain’t No Sheep” and “Workshop of the Telescopes” that made this band an unusual curiosity for its time. The near country-rock of “Redeemed” is a bizarre musical step, whereas “She’s as Beautiful as a Foot” displays the band’s absurd side.

Discover Blue Öyster Cult by Blue Oyster Cult released in 1972. Find album reviews, track lists, credits, awards and more at AllMusic.