School's Out  by Alice Cooper

School's Out from 1972 is the fifth studio album by the American band Alice Cooper and is considered one of the most iconic records in rock history. The album combines elements of hard rock and glam rock. In contrast to previous releases, it includes more complex arrangements, the use of brass instruments, and influences from musicals (e.g., "Gutter Cat vs. The Jets" borrows elements from West Side Story). This is due to the collaboration with producer Bob Ezrin, who pushed them to develop a recognizable sound ("signature sound"). He taught them how to write tight, radio-friendly hits without losing their dark side. Bob Ezrin wasn't just a producer; he contributed to the songwriting (credits on "School's Out" and "Luney Tune"), did the arrangements, and played keyboards on the album.

Alice Cooper (Vincent Furnier) was the lead singer and lyricist, contributing to the "concept album" idea around the theme of school life and teenage rebellion. He was joined by the entire original Alice Cooper Group (Glen Buxton, Michael Bruce, Dennis Dunaway, Neal Smith). The cover - designed by Craig Braun - was one of the most original packages of the time. It opened like an old wooden desk, with carved names and "graffiti" of the group members. The first editions of the album were wrapped in a paper women's underwear (in various colors), which was later withdrawn because it was deemed flammable.

The album reached No. 2 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 1 in Canada. In the United Kingdom, it reached No. 4. The single of School's Out became a worldwide anthem, reaching No. 1 in Great Britain for three weeks and No. 7 in the United States. The album has gone platinum in the United States.