The Gutter Cats Are Out To Play!!

Unlike his shows during the early 80’s (original article here), Cooper‘s live shows during the early 70’s have much more video evidence of how the group evolved and ventured down different theatrical elements. However, the School’s Out years (although widely photographed) don’t have as much coverage as their next album Billion Dollar Babies and previous record Killer.

A 1972 concert filmed at the Hofstra University in Hempstead, New York, gives a short yet interesting look into the groups step into a more comical and horror filled show. They basically give Alice Cooper‘s rendition of West Side Story. The band is in great form with bassist Dennis Dunaway and drummer Neal Smith really shining during the whole show.

One downside is that it doesn’t seem to be a complete performance with some segments showing up with Alice and his pet snake during the song “Killer“. All in all though, it is a really fun and entertaining peek into the bands climb to the top of the world. Little did they know that they would soon be there…