Alice Cooper at the Utilita Arena – Still the Master of Shock Rock

Alice Cooper returned to Cardiff for one of only two UK dates, and at 76 years old, he proved he’s still one of the greatest showmen in rock and roll

The night began with a curveball. Just as opening act Bobbie Dazzle was about to take the stage, news broke that Ozzy Osbourne had died — just two weeks after his farewell appearance. But the show must go on, and Bobbie Dazzle who is from the midlands powered through with a set that was full of energy, glam, and sexy attitude. With punchy pop-rock, huge riffs, she made a serious impression. Closing her set, she paid tribute to Ozzy — also a Birmingham native — with a heartfelt message and a massive crowd cheer in his honour.

Bobbie Dazzler and her Band

Then came the main event.

The stage was hidden behind a towering medieval-style newspaper, and figures in plague masks crept across the stage as a searchlight scanned the crowd. Then, Alice Cooper smashed through the curtain with a sword , yes a sword and the theatrics began. It was part rock gig, part rocky horror film — a full theatrical experience packed with characters, on-stage “murders,” and huge solos from the band.

Electric Guitar Nita Strauss and Ryan Roxie Lead Guitar

Let’s talk about Alice Coopers band . They were every bit as entertaining and sensational as he was. Glen Sobel’s extended drum solo (which somehow included cowbells and pure madness) was jaw-dropping, and the crowd couldn’t get enough of Nita Strauss. Fierce, powerful, and utterly captivating, she matched Alice blow for blow — ripping through solos with such intensity you couldn’t take your eyes off her. Honestly, she could have carried the whole show herself and i would be there for every second.

The band threw out plectrums like confetti, keeping the crowd fed and fully locked in. It was a full-on rock spectacle, loud and theatrical from start to finish, with Erie horror characters, guest appearances from his wife and stunning visual displays.

The band and Alice knocked out hit after hit , including songs like Welcome to the show, Lost in the USA, Poison, Feed my Frankenstein all set in different scenes in some horror stage show., it was utterly brilliant!

The show ended, as it should, with School’s Out, followed by roaring cheers as Alice introduced his band. His wife, who earlier had “beheaded” him on stage, got her moment in the spotlight. Then, with perfect timing and that signature twinkle in his eye, Alice introduced “the man playing the role of Alice Cooper… Alice Cooper” — before leading the crowd in one final, defiant chant: “OZZY! OZZY! OZZY!” and saying Good Night to Ozzy.

It was a fitting tribute to a rock icon, delivered by another. Alice Cooper reminded us why he’s a legend and how something like this just before going on stage must have effected him but the show must go on — still rocking, still twisted, and still totally brilliant, still the lord of rock Theatre.

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