Probably 'Blue Öyster Cult's' most popular and best known release which features a more commercial stance that their previous three studio releases. Here they still manage to maintain that characteristic quirkiness, but combine it with a more accessible sound.

The catchy light-weight rocker 'This ain't the Summer of Love' kicks us off, a solid slow early groover with enjoyable guitar solo and strong chorus. 'Lizzy Borden' does a good cover version of this song on his 2000' comeback album 'Deal with the Devil'. Everything comes together on the cracking '(Don't Fear) the Reaper', an amazingly unforgettable track, with brilliant lyrics and superb melodic vocal work. The formula used on this track was implemented many times later by 'Blue Öyster Cult', but they could never surpass this memorable effort. Other better tracks include the grooving 'E.T.I.', 'Tattoo Vampire' with its early 'Deep Purple' feel, the well constructed 'Sinful Love' and the infectious 'Morning Final'. 'The Revenge of Vera Gemini' features '70's' stalwart 'Patti Smith' sharing the vocals on a surprisingly catchy, haunting ballad. The end of the album tails off a little, the stupidly titled 'Tenderloin' sound dated and uninspired and 'Debbie Denise' is a lame ballad.

Fans of blistering 'Power Metal' might want to overlook this one, but if quality 70's 'Hard Rock' is your bag, add this to your shopping list. Quite a landmark album on its release and considered very influential but has perhaps has lost a little with time.