Alice Cooper: (June 30, 1972) “Tonight the much-mauled Alice Cooper band performs at the Empire Pool, Wembley” - The Guardian

Jun 30, 1972

2 min read

Publication: The Guardian (London, UK) Date: Friday, June 30, 1972

Page: 10

Article Context

“Tonight the much-mauled Alice Cooper band performs at the Empire Pool, Wembley. At the weekend their bandwagon rolled over Pittsburgh and MICHAEL WHITE flew over to hear them. Here he reports on his resounding failure. The picture is from a record sleeve.”

Key Content

Notable Mentions

The writer describes attending the Alice Cooper concert at the Empire Pool, Wembley, and contrasts it with their previous show at the Rainbow Theatre. He expresses strong disappointment in the performance, calling it a “resounding failure” despite the band’s growing notoriety in the US and UK. The piece discusses the theatrical elements — including blood, a guillotine, a boa constrictor, and other shock tactics — and debates whether the act represents genuine rebellion or calculated sensationalism. The article also covers the broader context of Alice Cooper’s rise, mentioning their massive American success story, the Wall Street Journal coverage, and the band’s reputation for delivering one of the most theatrical rock ‘n’ roll shows of the era. It touches on the controversy surrounding their violent and macabre stage persona.

A detailed and highly critical review of Alice Cooper’s live performance and overall theatrical rock show during their 1972 UK tour. The article reflects on the band’s provocative stage act, which includes mock violence, props, and shock rock elements, while questioning its artistic value and cultural impact.

Strong commentary on the band’s shock rock aesthetics, audience reactions, and the cultural debate around violence in entertainment. The review reflects mixed feelings about the emerging glam/shock rock movement, with the author ultimately unimpressed by the execution at this particular show. It provides valuable insight into how British critics received Alice Cooper’s notorious live act in the summer of 1972.

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