American rock band formed in Stony Brook, New York in 1967. Long-running classic lineup: Eric Bloom (vocals/guitar/keyboards), Buck Dharma (Donald Roeser, guitar/vocals), Allen Lanier (guitar/keyboards, died 2013), Joe Bouchard (bass/vocals, 1969-1986), and Albert Bouchard (drums/vocals, 1967-1981). Often credited as one of the originators of heavy metal alongside Black Sabbath and Deep Purple.
Fifteen studio albums between Blue Öyster Cult (1972) and Ghost Stories (2024). Best-known releases include Agents of Fortune (1976, featuring "(Don't Fear) The Reaper"), Spectres (1977), and Fire of Unknown Origin (1981). The band has been continuously active since formation despite many lineup changes.