About this album
Where they were
Released in 1975, 'Agents of Fortune' was Blue Öyster Cult's fourth studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Secret Treaties'. This album marked a significant commercial peak for the band, propelled by the massive success of '(Don't Fear) The Reaper', which became a defining anthem of the era.
Why it matters
'Agents of Fortune' is notable for its commercial success, reaching No. 29 on the Billboard 200 and featuring the hit single '(Don't Fear) The Reaper', which has since been covered and referenced widely in popular culture. Its blend of hard rock and lyrical themes of existentialism solidified Blue Öyster Cult's influence on rock music during the mid-1970s.
Essential tracks
- "(Don't Fear) The Reaper" — This track showcases the band's unique blend of hard rock and haunting lyrics about love and death, ultimately becoming their signature song.
- "E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence)" — With its intriguing narrative about alien life, this song reflects the band's penchant for exploring science fiction themes within a hard rock framework.
- "This Ain’t the Summer of Love" — The track critiques the disillusionment of the 1960s counterculture, presenting a darker perspective that resonates with listeners seeking depth in rock music.
Release Date
January 1, 1975
Artist Origin
United States
Tracklist
- 1 This Ain’t the Summer of Love 2:21
- 2 True Confessions 2:56
- 3 (Don’t Fear) The Reaper 5:08
- 4 E.T.I. (Extra Terrestrial Intelligence) 3:43
- 5 The Revenge of Vera Gemini 3:51
- 6 Sinful Love 3:29
- 7 Tattoo Vampire 2:41
- 8 Morning Final 4:12
- 9 Tenderloin 3:57
- 10 Debbie Denise 4:09