Imaginos

Album Description

Dive into the enigmatic world of Blue Öyster Cult's "Imaginos," a 1988 classic rock masterpiece that stands out as one of the band's most unique and intriguing releases. This eleventh studio album, released on May 6, 1988, under the SMCMG label, is a testament to the band's enduring creativity and musical prowess.

"Imaginos" is a concept album that spans 55 minutes of captivating hard rock, featuring nine tracks that weave together a tapestry of mythical and fantastical narratives. The album is a labor of love, a project 20 years in the making, with drummer Albert Bouchard contributing significantly to the material, even taking on guitar duties. The album's standout tracks, such as "I Am the One You Warned Me Of" and "The Siege and Investiture of Baron von Frankenstein's Castle at Weisseria," showcase the band's signature sound while exploring new sonic territories.

Despite some controversy surrounding its authenticity as a Blue Öyster Cult album, "Imaginos" is a bold and ambitious work that showcases the band's willingness to push boundaries. The album's intricate storytelling and rich musical arrangements make it a compelling listen from start to finish. Whether you're a longtime fan of Blue Öyster Cult or a newcomer to their music, "Imaginos" offers a unique and rewarding experience that highlights the band's enduring legacy in the world of classic rock.

May 6, 1988

(P) 1988 Columbia Records, a division of Sony Music Entertainment

About Blue Öyster Cult

Blue Öyster Cult, hailing from Long Island, New York, is a legendary American rock band that has left an indelible mark on the music scene since their formation in 1967. Known for their unique fusion of hard rock and psychedelia, Blue Öyster Cult has sold over 25 million records worldwide, with 7 million of those in the United States alone. The band's distinctive sound and penchant for occult, fantastical, and tongue-in-cheek lyrics have significantly influenced the heavy metal genre.

Blue Öyster Cult gained a devoted following and achieved mainstream success with iconic hits like "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" (1976), "Godzilla" (1977), and "Burnin' for You" (1981), which continue to be staples on classic rock radio. The band was also an early adopter of the music video format, with their videos being in heavy rotation on MTV during its early days. With a career spanning over five decades, Blue Öyster Cult has released 16 studio albums, the most recent being "Ghost Stories" in 2024. Their live performances are renowned for their electrifying energy, making them a must-see for any rock enthusiast.