The longer a rock band remains together, the more live albums they're bound to rack up. Thus is the case with Blue Oyster Cult, as 2006 saw the release of their umpteenth live release, Alive in America, Pt. 1. Most of the expected BOC classics are included here -- "Burnin' for You," "Don't Fear the Reaper," and "Godzilla," among others. But unlike most other previously issued live BOC albums, Alive in America, Pt. 1 features strong renditions of such oft-overlooked fan favorites as "Veteran of the Psychic Wars," "Hot Rails to Hell," and "Me 262." And staying true to their biker roots, a pair of Harley classics round out the collection -- Steppenwolf's "Born to be Wild" and the Doors' "Roadhouse Blues." While they may not yet be challenging Motorhead's crown for most live albums issued by a heavy metal band, Blue Oyster Cult is certainly gaining ground. ~ Greg Prato

Rovi