Album Review: Alice Cooper – Breadcrumbs

🎵 Tracklist:
Track 1: Detroit City 2020
Track 2: Go Man Go
Track 3: East Side Story
Track 4: Your Mama Won’t Like Me
Track 5: Devil With a Blue Dress On / Chains of Love
Track 6: Sister Anne
Track 7: Don’t Give Up
Track 8: Go Man Go (live at Hellfest 2022)

🎸 Album Review:
Alice Cooper, the legendary shock rocker, has returned with a tantalizing new EP titled ‘Breadcrumbs’. This eight-track release is a raw and gritty homage to Cooper’s roots in Detroit, paying tribute to the city’s rock ‘n’ roll heritage while also showcasing his timeless energy and charisma. With a mix of original tracks and covers, ‘Breadcrumbs’ serves as a tasty appetizer for fans eagerly awaiting new material from the iconic performer.

The album kicks off with “Detroit City 2020,” a reimagined version of Cooper’s 2003 track “Detroit City.” This updated rendition captures the spirit of Motor City with its driving guitars and anthemic chorus. Cooper’s signature snarl is in top form here, reminding listeners of his enduring vocal prowess. The track sets the tone for the rest of the EP, blending classic rock vibes with a modern edge.

“Go Man Go” follows with its infectious energy and relentless pace. The song is a high-octane rocker that harkens back to Cooper’s early days with its rebellious spirit and catchy hooks. The driving rhythm section propels the track forward, while Cooper’s vocals exude a sense of urgency and attitude. It’s a standout moment that showcases Cooper’s ability to still deliver a powerful punch after all these years.

One of the highlights of ‘Breadcrumbs’ is the cover of Suzi Quatro’s “Your Mama Won’t Like Me.” Cooper puts his own spin on the glam rock classic, infusing it with his trademark theatricality and swagger. The track oozes with attitude and sass, with Cooper’s vocals dripping with charisma. It’s a fun and feisty rendition that pays homage to one of rock’s unsung heroines while also allowing Cooper to make the song his own.

Another standout track is the medley of “Devil With a Blue Dress On / Chains of Love,” a mashup of two classic rock ‘n’ roll tunes. Cooper and his band breathe new life into these songs, blending them seamlessly into a rollicking romp that is sure to get listeners on their feet. The energy is infectious, and Cooper’s vocals soar as he channels the spirit of early rock pioneers. It’s a joyous celebration of the music that inspired Cooper and a testament to his enduring love for the genre.

The EP also features a live version of “Go Man Go” recorded at Hellfest 2022. The live setting adds an extra layer of intensity to the track, capturing the raw power of Cooper’s stage presence. The crowd’s energy is palpable, and Cooper feeds off it, delivering a performance that is both electrifying and captivating. It’s a fitting conclusion to the EP, leaving listeners craving more of Cooper’s electrifying live shows.

‘Breadcrumbs’ serves as a refreshing departure from Cooper’s recent studio albums, which have leaned more towards theatricality and concept-driven narratives. This EP strips away the excess, allowing Cooper to showcase his rock ‘n’ roll roots in a raw and unfiltered way. The sound is gritty and authentic, reminiscent of the garage rock bands that emerged from Detroit in the 1960s.

In comparison to Cooper’s extensive discography, ‘Breadcrumbs’ stands out as a concise and focused effort that highlights his rockabilly and garage rock influences. While it may not have the grandiosity of albums like ‘Welcome to My Nightmare’ or ‘School’s Out,’ ‘Breadcrumbs’ excels in its simplicity and directness. It’s a reminder of Cooper’s versatility as an artist and his ability to thrive in any musical landscape.

Overall, ‘Breadcrumbs’ is a satisfying and invigorating listen that showcases Alice Cooper’s enduring appeal and musical prowess. With its blend of original tracks and covers, the EP pays homage to Cooper’s roots while also looking towards the future. It’s a testament to his status as a rock icon and a reminder of why he continues to captivate audiences after more than five decades in the industry. ‘Breadcrumbs’ may be a small taste of what’s to come, but it leaves a big impact that will resonate with fans old and new alike.