REVIEW: BLUE ÖYSTER CULT – Club Ninja

 

BLUE ÖYSTER CULT – Club Ninja

CBS Records

“Club Ninja”, released in 1986, often stands as one of Blue Öyster Cult's more divisive albums. As the band was transitioning into the mid-80s era, their sound evolved, leaning towards more polished, radio-friendly production that diverged significantly from their earlier, more progressive, and hard rock roots. While this change didn’t sit well with all fans, the album still has its own merits and identity, especially for listeners attuned to 80s aesthetics.

The album kicks off with “White Flags,” a cover of a Leggat Brothers song, which immediately sets the tone for what’s to come. The polished production is evident, with prominent synthesizers creating an atmospheric introduction. The guitars are still present but somewhat restrained, letting the synths take a front seat, which may come as a surprise for long-time fans of the band’s heavier, guitar-driven material. However, this track is a clear example of the more AOR (Album-Oriented Rock) vibe that permeates *Club Ninja*. The chorus is big, melodic, and undeniably catchy—a trend that continues throughout the album.

Next, “Dancin' in the Ruins” follows, and here is where the album shows its 80s colors even more clearly. The track has a light danceable rhythm, leaning toward a pop-rock sound, and one might detect hints of disco elements, especially in the groove of the beat. While it doesn’t entirely veer into a dance track, it has that infectious energy, driven by the combination of keyboards and tight drumming. The track reached moderate success, and its upbeat nature makes it one of the album’s highlights, especially for those who enjoy Blue Öyster Cult’s more accessible side.

A track like “Rock Not War” brings the band back to a more straightforward rock sound, though it still maintains that glossy, heavily produced sheen that defines the record. The lyrics, focusing on anti-war themes, touch on socio-political commentary, showing that the band hasn’t completely abandoned their philosophical and provocative lyrical content, despite the more commercial sound. The guitar work, though not as gritty as on previous albums, is solid, and there’s an energy to the song that feels more in line with their past, making it a bridge between eras for the band.

One of the album’s strengths is its ability to balance softer, more melodic songs with heavier moments, such as in “Shadow Warrior.” Here, the band reintroduces some of the mystique and darker themes they were known for in the 70s, with Eric Bloom delivering a vocal performance that channels some of the enigmatic energy that defined the band’s earlier work. The track has a compelling build-up, with some intricate guitar work providing a powerful undercurrent. The atmospheric synths add layers to the song, making it more nuanced and compelling.

Perhaps the most noteworthy track in terms of showcasing the AOR and catchy elements is “Perfect Water.” This song is drenched in an 80s sound with smooth vocals and dreamy production. While lyrically it takes a deep dive into more abstract themes, the overall feel of the song is serene and radio-ready. Its structure and accessibility make it a perfect example of the band’s direction in “Club Ninja”. The song also has a bit of progressive rock sensibility in its pacing, something that may appeal to fans of both worlds.

The album closes with “Madness to the Method,” a track that pulls together all the elements explored on the record. It’s epic in scope, with dynamic shifts between softer verses and bombastic choruses. The guitar solo towards the end is one of the album’s highlights, and the song finishes on a powerful note, leaving listeners with a sense of closure after an otherwise varied album.

In my opinion, “Club Ninja” may not have resonated as strongly with fans of Blue Öyster Cult’s earlier work, but it captures the sound of the mid-80s impeccably. The album leans heavily into AOR territory, with strong melodic hooks and an infectious, catchy quality that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The addition of disco-like grooves in some tracks gives it a distinct flavor that differentiates it from other rock albums of the time, making it stand out for its daring fusion of genres. Though some purists may find the polished production and radio-friendly approach jarring, *Club Ninja* is undeniably a product of its time, with a certain charm that makes it a fun and compelling listen.

Nick Parastatidis