Few artists have left as indelible a mark on the landscape of rock as Alice Cooper. With a career spanning more than five decades and a discography of 30 studio albums, Cooper’s fusion of hard rock, glam, shock, and psychedelic influences has inspired generations of musicians and fans. It is, therefore, fitting to explore—and rank—his albums from worst to best, celebrating both his boundary-pushing releases and the lesser-known records that continued to showcase his theatrical genius.
With such a large discography, ranking Alice Cooper’s albums is nothing short of a monumental task. Hence, any list can only be subjective, for there is no objective way to reflect on such a storied career.
…and yes, dear reader, I’ve changed the order numerous times. While there are a couple of subpar records in his catalogue, the killer releases are so vast that his Top 20 are really in a continuous state of flux. However, after almost a year of listening and thinking, and listening a little more, it’s time for me to hit publish on this subjective list.
Some may lament that I have combined both the Alice Cooper band and Alice Cooper’s solo records into a single list. Yes, the Alice Cooper band material is legendary in its own right, and Glen Buxton, Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway, and Neal Smith deserve all the praise they’ve received over the years—for if it weren’t for these incredible musicians, there would be no list to rank. However, Cooper’s legacy goes well beyond the band’s origins and, hence, here we are. Perhaps one day I’ll separate them, but when I think of Alice Cooper, I seldom separate the two stages of the Alice Cooper legacy.
30. special forces (1981)
Special Forces is my most disliked Alice Cooper release; an interesting dichotomy as his other “blackout” records are amongst my favourite albums, of not only Cooper’s career but, of all time. The problem as I’ve always seen it is that Special Forces has a monotonous styling throughout the entire runtime without a standout tune. As such, this album lacks the audible spectacle that has made Cooper’s music so appealing and it is therefore fitting as the worst album in this subjective list.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
29. the eyes of alice cooper (2003)
The Eyes Of Alice Cooper is a solid hard rock release, but despite the blending of straightforward hard rock with subtle gothic undertones and a couple of ballads, it simply isn’t one of Cooper’s memorable releases and is one of his albums that lacks at least a standout hit to keep the fans hooked. While I’ve no doubt some fans adore The Eyes Of Alice Cooper, I’m not one of them and only find myself listening to this release when exploring Cooper’s entire legacy; such as to undertake this ranked list.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
28. Detroit Stories (2021)
Detroit Stories is Alice Cooper’s love letter to the city that shaped his early years, capturing the grit, swagger, and unfiltered energy of Detroit’s rock scene. Backed by his long-time producer Bob Ezrin, Cooper channels nostalgia with his unique raw qualities that form an interesting combination, for if the motor city could be represented audibly, Detroit Stories is, arguably, the best representation of the sounds of the legendary city.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
27. Road (2023)
Road is very much a tribute release and nod of respect to the musicians who have helped Cooper traverse the roads of endless touring. With longtime collaborator, Bob Ezrin at the helm, Cooper delivers fresh, original material that captures the thrill of the stage lights, the camaraderie of the crew, and the loneliness of the long drives between gigs.
Recording with his live band, as a live performance in the studio, Cooper was able to achieve a larger-than-life sonic presentation; one that adequately resembles the energy and proficiency of his live performances. Melding driving guitar riffs and propulsive rhythms with atmospheric elements that support the record’s intent, Road is a solid rocker but isn’t amongst Cooper’s greatest releases. While I consider it to be a run-of-the-mill modern hard rock release, others will likely adore it. Of course, when someone like Cooper has such an incredible legacy, it need not matter what we think as fans, for he’s earned the right to be self-indulgent.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
26. welcome 2 my nightmare (2011)
Nearly four decades after his original conceptual masterpiece, Alice Cooper returned with Welcome 2 My Nightmare, revisiting the surreal dreamscape that made Welcome To My Nightmare such a legendary release. This sequel captures Cooper’s enduring flair for horror-tinged storytelling while infusing his signature theatrics with modern production values, but it ultimately failed to live up to the original.
Despite Welcome 2 My Nightmare expanding the original’s universe, with a contemporary edge and Cooper’s unique blend of grandiose thematic ambition with streamlined songwriting, the story aspect is less paramount to the album experience this time around. Yes, I have wondered if it were due to the absence of a Vincent Price-styled monologue, but I also feel Welcome 2 My Nightmare is a little too long and sometimes when you’ve got a timeless masterpiece, there’s no need for a follow-up. As such, I prefer to enjoy Welcome 2 My Nightmare as a standalone release with a series of excellent tunes and a couple of bangers.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
25. pretties for you (1969)
Alice Cooper’s debut album, Pretties For You, is a daring outlier in his extensive catalogue—an experimental collage of psychedelic art-rock and avant-garde curiosities that bears little resemblance to his later shock-rock persona. Recorded when the band was still finding its footing, the album mixes whimsical melodies, oddball song structures, and eclectic instrumentation, resulting in an unpredictable listening experience that’s both intriguing and occasionally disorienting.
While Pretties For You lacks the tight focus and theatrical polish of Alice Cooper's later works, its raw ambition and willingness to defy genre conventions make it a fascinating glimpse into the band’s formative creativity.
For listeners curious about the seeds of Cooper’s artistic evolution, this debut offers a glimpse of unfiltered experimentation and the restless spirit that would eventually blossom into a rock-and-roll spectacle.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
24. dragontown (2001)
Dragontown plunges Alice Cooper into a darker, more aggressive realm, fusing heavy metal riffs with an ominous, almost gothic atmosphere. Emerging in the early 2000s, the album’s sound reflects a world grappling with unease and it permeates throughout the entire record. Yes, Cooper’s snarling vocals ride above thick guitar walls and pounding rhythms, creating an immersive backdrop for themes of power, temptation, and chaos, but it’s one of his albums that just doesn’t have the synergetic element that encourages replayability.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
23. dirty diamonds (2005)
Straddling the line between his hard-rock roots and a modern edge, Alice Cooper’s Dirty Diamonds delivers a collection of songs that’s polished yet still dripping with attitude. Released amid a revival of interest in classic rock icons, the album features gritty guitar riffs, Cooper’s trademark snarl, and hook-driven tunes.
Overall, the record feels like a deliberate nod to his 70s heyday while incorporating contemporary production values that keep it sounding fresh. Yet, it isn’t the cohesive album experience of his legacy releases. Hence, its position on this list as killer songs alone don’t make for an exceptional album.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
22. easy action (1970)
Easy Action captures the Alice Cooper band in one of their earliest, rawest, forms—a somewhat unfiltered blast of garage-infused hard rock and proto-shock theatrics. Building on the loose energy of their debut, this sophomore release tightens the group’s sound without sacrificing the gritty authenticity that set them apart. With driving rhythms and snarling vocals, the album channels youthful rebellion and sets the stage for the more elaborate theatrics to come.
Though not as polished as later milestones, Easy Action is essential listening for understanding Alice Cooper’s evolution and origins. Its straightforward production highlights the band’s chemistry and willingness to push musical boundaries and if given the chance, through repeat listens, Easy Action will likely reach into your soul for there’s an undeniable appeal to the album.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
21. paranormal (2017)
Alice Cooper would embrace his legacy, while engaging with contemporary rock sensibilities, for his 2017 release, Paranormal. Teaming up with long-time collaborator, Bob Ezrin, Cooper delivered a collection of songs that feel both reflective and revitalised. Weaving his trademark theatricality through a modern production, one would expect an album such as this to complement his legendary releases and while there are plenty of moments that do embrace nostalgia, it doesn’t quite deliver the cohesive album experience of its celebrated predecessors.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
20. brutal planet (2000)
Brutal Planet sees Alice Cooper reimagine his signature shock-rock through an industrial-metal vibe, crafting a dark, dystopian soundscape that reflects the turn-of-the-millennium anxieties. Pairing crushing riffs and mechanised rhythms with Cooper’s sardonic narration, Brutal Planet delivers a visceral listening experience that feels simultaneously futuristic and menacing. As a later-career reinvention, it underscores his willingness to evolve; an aspect that he’s never shined away from during his illustrious career.
While it may challenge listeners expecting 70s-style anthems, Brutal Planet remains a solid addition to Cooper’s extensive discography with one of the greatest title tracks ever recorded.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
19. Along Came A spider (2008)
Along Came A Spider is another of Alice Cooper’s chilling concept albums. Delving into the twisted mind of a serial killer, this more modern release was always going to weave a dark narrative. However, it's the album’s musicality that’s quite impressive. Infused with heavy metal riffs, industrial textures, and gothic atmospheres, Along Came A Spider creates an unsettling, yet compelling, soundscape that will have you coming back for more.
While it may not contain the anthemic hooks of his other concept albums, songs such as “Vengeance Is Mine” and “Killed By Love” are on par with the best Cooper has ever recorded and help to ensure a cohesive album experience; one that will grow on you the more you listen to it.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
18. Hey Stoopid (1991)
Hey Stoopid embraces the polished hard‑rock and glam‑metal sensibilities of the early 90s, yet it remained infused with the dark wit and theatrical flair that have always defined Cooper’s works. Backed by a high‑octane production and a lineup of impressive guest musicians, the album balances punchy riffs and arena‑ready hooks alongside Cooper’s unmistakable charm.
Though it didn’t quite reach the heights of Trash, Hey Stoopid remains a compelling listen and if nothing else has one of the most disturbing cover designs from his entire career; one that has earned its place amongst The Worst (And Most Disturbing) Album Covers Of All Time.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
17. Raise Your Fist And yell (1987)
Raise Your Fist And Yell doubles down on the heavy‑metal intensity and horror‑tinged theatrics with its razor‑sharp guitars and thunderous rhythms that generate a deliberate shift toward a more aggressive sound than its predecessor, Constrictor.
While it lacks the polished presentation of Trash, and failed to spawn a mainstream hit, the album’s relentless drive and unapologetic heaviness have earned it a cult following, proving that Cooper could still surprise, thrill, and command one’s attention despite a shift in direction; an aspect that few artists have succeeded at achieving.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Raise Your Fist And Yell.
16. trash (1989)
Trash is the epitome of late-80s Alice Cooper — slick, radio-friendly, and bursting with glam-metal attitude. Produced by Desmond Child, the album marks a commercial high point for Cooper, led by the massively popular single “Poison,” which quickly became one of his most recognisable tunes. While the album leans heavily into the pop-metal styling of the era, there’s still enough grit and theatrical flair to make it unmistakably Cooper. Ultimately, Trash is one of Alice Cooper’s finest moments, a triumphant return to the mainstream spotlight, and one of the best albums from 1989.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Trash.
15. school’s out (1972)
School’s Out was the album that catapulted the Alice Cooper band from cult curiosity to stadium‑filling rockstar status. Anchored by the anthemic title track—a defiantly celebratory ode to teenage freedom—the album blends gritty hard rock with playful theatricality. With tighter production and sharper riffs than its predecessors, it retains the band’s raw energy while further showcasing Cooper’s flair for crafting singalong hooks and vivid storytelling.
Beyond its iconic lead single, School’s Out offers a balanced mix of hard‑hitting rockers and moodier, introspective tracks that reveal the band’s growing musical sophistication. Ultimately, the album’s cohesive sound and rebellious spirit resonated deeply with a generation, cementing its place as a cultural touchstone and a cornerstone of the Alice Cooper legacy.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
14. welcome to my nightmare (1975)
Alice Cooper’s Welcome To My Nightmare is a landmark release that not only marked his solo debut but also redefined the concept album. Delving into the dark and twisted recesses of Cooper's imagination, taking listeners on a journey through the nightmares of a troubled mind, with the character Steven serving as the album’s protagonist, was a triumph of creativity and innovation.
From the haunting opening track to the chilling finale, the album immerses listeners in a theatrically surreal world filled with macabre imagery and unsettling melodies. Cooper's emotive vocals and poignant lyrics elevate the music, making it a textbook example of how to write, record, and release a concept album; one that is amongst the greatest albums released in 1975.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Welcome To My Nightmare.
13. The Revenge Of Alice Cooper (2025)
The Revenge Of Alice Cooper is a triumphant return, marking the reunion of the Alice Cooper band after a five-decade hiatus. The album seamlessly blends vintage shock rock energy with modern production qualities, creating a thrilling experience that will resonate with both old and new fans alike. With a mix of gritty riffs and bold melodies, the Alice Cooper band has reaffirmed, via this release, their status as one of rock’s most legendary acts.
Most importantly, however, The Revenge Of Alice Cooper isn't just a comeback, it’s a dream come true for Alice Cooper fans and is only bested by the incredible Alice Cooper back catalogue of music that we know and love so well.
Will it become a timeless classic? It already is!
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s The Revenge Of Alice Cooper.
12. killer (1971)
Killer saw the Alice Cooper band sharpening their sound and upping the ante on their theatrical styling. Building on the raw energy from their earlier releases, Killer delves into darker themes and more aggressive arrangements with a tighter and more focused group synergy. Add to that the album’s punchy production and what you’ve got is a killer (pun intended) record that captured the band at a pivotal moment of creativity.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
11. muscle of love (1973)
Muscle Of Love may focus on juvenile sexual innuendos, but it remains one of the finest albums the original Alice Cooper band ever recorded—and a bittersweet swansong for that lineup. With Bob Ezrin absent from the producer’s chair, Jack Douglas and Jack Richardson expertly guided the sessions, creating a cohesive record that balances gritty rock grooves, psychedelic elements, and dynamic arrangements.
It is the album experience that is at the forefront when considering Muscle Of Love as many of the songs never became live staples or radio hits, yet the album’s adventurous spirit and unfiltered creativity reward listeners who dig beyond the songs themselves. Ultimately, Muscle Of Love is an exceptional, and often underappreciated, gem from Alice Cooper.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Muscle Of Love.
10. billion dollar babies (1973)
Billion Dollar Babies marks the peak of the original Alice Cooper band’s creative and commercial success. Building on the shock rock foundation laid out in previous records, this album is where spectacle and sound collide with maximum impact. It’s bold, theatrical, and bursting with confidence — the sound of a band fully owning their identity and pushing the boundaries of mainstream rock in the early 70s.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Billion Dollar Babies.
9. Love it to death (1971)
Love It To Death represents the true breakthrough for the Alice Cooper band, transforming them from cult curiosities into noteworthy hard rockers. The record’s biting riffs, gritty vocals, and emerging theatrical flair signalled a decisive shift away from the garage-band psychedelic rawness that permeated their first two albums.
The lean, yet focused, production balances unrestrained rock power with moments of eeriness and showcases Cooper’s growing confidence as both a frontman and storyteller; a conviction that was built on spectacle, rebellion, and a selection of unforgettable songs.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
8. constrictor (1986)
Following a three‑year studio hiatus, Constrictor reintroduced Alice Cooper with a lean, hard‑edged rock record that embraced a tighter, more radio‑friendly production. Recorded in the wake of personal struggles and creative reinvention, the album channels a sense of renewed energy and purpose, laying the groundwork for Cooper’s late‑80s resurgence.
More than just a comeback, however, Constrictor is a pivotal chapter in Cooper’s extensive catalogue as it bridges the experimental “blackout” era and the polished glam-metal of Trash, proving he could adapt to the shifting rock landscape without sacrificing his unique persona.
Crisp guitar tones and driving rhythms propel the album forward, underscoring Cooper’s knack for crafting memorable, larger‑than‑life performances and while Constrictor may have flown under the radar upon release, it remains a vital testament to Alice Cooper’s enduring appeal.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Constrictor.
7. zipper catches skin (1982)
Alice Cooper’s Zipper Catches Skin remains one of his most daring and unconventional releases, boldly embracing new wave and post-punk influences while maintaining just enough of his signature theatrical flair. Recorded during a turbulent period in Cooper’s life, the album trades the elaborate shock-rock styling for a stripped‑down, lo‑fi aesthetic that feels both raw and whimsically edgy. Clocking in at a concise 32 minutes, it’s the perfect snapshot of an artist unafraid to pivot and experiment—even if it means alienating some fans in the process.
From the energetic opener “Zorro’s Ascent” to the satirical gem “Make That Money (Scrooge’s Song),” Zipper Catches Skin delivers unexpected highlights at every turn. “I Am the Future” is pure 80s new wave, while “No Baloney Homosapiens” combines infectious hooks with playful lyricism—albeit with a few distracting sound effects. The punk‑tinged “Remarkably Insincere,” the bouncy “I Like Girls,” and the rebellious “Tag, You’re It”, keep the momentum high, leading to the tongue‑in‑cheek closer “I’m Alive (That Was The Day My Dead Pet Returned To Save My Life).”
Though initially overlooked, the album has since garnered a devoted cult following, and its lean runtime makes it an ideal—and surprisingly rewarding—listen from start to finish. It has, subsequently, earned its position amongst Cooper’s greatest works and is amongst the best albums released in 1982.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Zipper Catches Skin.
6. flush the fashion (1980)
Flush The Fashion is one of Alice Cooper’s most daring stylistic pivots, embracing the new wave zeitgeist of its era while retaining just enough of his signature theatrical flair to appeal to longtime fans. Notoriously one of the four albums Cooper barely recalls recording, Flush The Fashion stands out as an underrated masterpiece and one of the best albums released in 1980.
With a runtime of 28 minutes, its conciseness makes for an addictive listen that rewards repeat plays, with every second honed for maximum impact. It may not have the sprawling ambition of some of his bigger releases, but its brevity is its strength, offering a tightly focused snapshot of an artist who has shown repeatedly that he is unafraid to reinvent himself.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Flush The Fashion.
5. from the inside (1978)
Alice Cooper’s From The Inside is one of his most personal and emotionally honest records—a concept album born from his own experiences in a sanitarium. Drawing directly on the struggles and revelations of that turbulent period, the theatrics and raw confession deliver a cohesive narrative that underscores Cooper’s depth as both a performer and songwriter.
Despite its deeply introspective focus, From The Inside strikes a careful balance between dark honesty and melodic accessibility. The production feels warm and empathetic, allowing Cooper’s voice and storytelling to shine without distraction. In the context of his broader catalogue, this album represents a brave pivot; a mature, concept‑driven work that broadened the scope of what an Alice Cooper record could represent. It, subsequently, remains a testament to his artistic resilience and willingness to confront personal demons through music whilst simultaneously being amongst the best albums released in 1978.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s From The Inside.
4. alice cooper goes to hell (1976)
Alice Cooper’s second solo studio album, Alice Cooper Goes To Hell, plunges listeners into even darker, more theatrical territory. While it may not be the concept album that Welcome To My Nightmare was, Alice Cooper Goes To Hell is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a fully realised musical experience, thanks to Bob Ezrin’s elaborate production and Cooper’s knack for delivering witty, narrative-styled lyrics.
What makes Goes to Hell truly special is its stylistic diversity. Glam-rock anthems like “You Gotta Dance” and swaggering rockers such as “I’m The Coolest” sit comfortably alongside heartfelt ballads like “I Never Cry” and the vaudevillian twist of “I’m Always Chasing Rainbows.” Even the more contentious moments—like the soulful bluesy number “Didn’t We Meet”—add texture to the album, rather than detract from it.
From start to finish, Alice Cooper Goes To Hell showcases Cooper at his most ambitious and remains not only one of his greatest releases but the best album released in 1976.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper Goes To Hell.
3. The Last temptation (1994)
Alice Cooper’s The Last Temptation is one of his most ambitious concept albums. Emerging in the mid‑90s—when grunge and industrial rock were reshaping the musical landscape—Cooper blended his signature shock‑rock style with heavier guitars, brooding synths, and cinematic interludes. The result is an album that can be considered an immersive rock opera; one that feels both modern and rooted in the dramatic storytelling that has defined his career.
While The Last Temptation may not have replicated the commercial heights of his 70s classics or the late 80s Trash-era, it remains one of the greatest records Cooper has ever released.
Check out the full album on Apple Music.
2. lace and whiskey (1977)
Lace And Whiskey is often overlooked in discussions of Cooper's most impactful works, yet it’s one of the most intriguing and theatrical releases from his storied career. Ditching the sinister, mascara-smeared persona, that had become his trademark, Cooper leant into storytelling by adopting the character of a washed-up private eye straight out of a pulp detective novel. The result is an album that blends parody, genre experimentation, and darkly humorous storytelling in ways that are as entertaining as they are unexpected.
From hard-hitting rock numbers to heartfelt ballads, Cooper's ability to convey emotion and tell stories through his music never ceases to amaze. As such, Lace And Whiskey isn’t merely one of the best albums from 1977; it’s one of the greatest Cooper ever recorded and is an overlooked masterpiece.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s Lace And Whiskey.
1. dada (1983)
Alice Cooper may not remember recording DaDa, but that doesn’t diminish its brilliance as it is, without a doubt, one of his most fascinating and artistically ambitious works.
Arguably the most surreal and experimental entry in Cooper’s extensive catalogue, DaDa is a polarising listen. Yet, for those willing to immerse themselves in its eerie, theatrical world, it offers a truly unforgettable album experience. From start to finish, there’s not a dull moment—only a journey through haunting sonic landscapes, unsettling humour, and deeply introspective (often unnerving) lyrics that blur the line between performance and psychological exploration.
Produced by long-time collaborator Bob Ezrin, DaDa is more art project than a traditional rock album. Gone are the stadium-ready shock rock anthems, replaced instead with immersive atmospheres and experimental storytelling. Over time, however, DaDa has earned a well-deserved cult following. Whether listeners come for its mysterious aura or stay to dissect what might have been going through Cooper’s mind during its creation, DaDa remains an underappreciated gem but is most certainly deserving of its position as his greatest album (for 1983 as well); from a subjective perspective, of course.
Check out the full review for a more detailed overview of Alice Cooper’s DaDa.
