So, bert ... let's talk KISS

[Ill Communication]

Or anyone else who wants too ...

As I may, or may have not mentioned, I'm becoming addicted to Paul Stanley songs. It's not so much that they're really deep ... they're just, I dunno, so corny they're good, and all seem to revolve around sex.

Which I think is pretty funny.

On your suggestion, I picked up In the Shade at the used CD store. That Forever song is the best.

They also have Stanley's solo album.

But the weird thing about KISS is that I don't really like any Gene songs, even though I like Gene Simmons. When he's singing and rocking out with Paul, that's cool, but not him solo.

Suggestions?

[bert]

Or anyone else who wants too ...

As I may, or may have not mentioned, I'm becoming addicted to Paul Stanley songs. It's not so much that they're really deep ... they're just, I dunno, so corny they're good, and all seem to revolve around sex.

Which I think is pretty funny.

On your suggestion, I picked up In the Shade at the used CD store. That Forever song is the best.

They also have Stanley's solo album.

But the weird thing about KISS is that I don't really like any Gene songs, even though I like Gene Simmons. When he's singing and rocking out with Paul, that's cool, but not him solo.

Suggestions?


Yeah, Paul is the best songwriter, but mostly when he's working w/others (Vinnie Vincent co-wrote a lot of songs w/ him (V.Cusano is V.Vincent).

If you like Paul songs, you'll really enjoy his solo album (tho I think Ace is the best). You also would really like Dynasty. . it's got some really good Paul songs on it, as well as one of the few Gene songs I like "charisma".


Paul also has a hit on the also mellow album "Unmasked" (makeup period). "Shandi" is a beautiful song, and it was a minor hit for them.

and, since you say you enjoy Paul ballads, you should really check out "the Elder". Many point to this as KISS really losing their way. . .it's a concept album about a boy going on a quest to rescue a princess. It certainly isn't the heaviest KISS album (it came after Dynasty, and Unmasked.. and it's the first to "Offically" feature Eric Carr as the new drummer. It was during this period that Ace kept referring to KISS' sound as "rock disco". . and it was after this album that he quit to do more hard-rock stuff.

But it's a really good album.. it's one of my all time favorites (I own several copies on vinyl, and I also own it on Cassette and CD). It's NOT a "rock" album, but there are some very good Paul sung songs on it "the Oath" , "Under the Rose", "Just a Boy". . and even a Gene sung "hit" ballad: "A World Without Heroes" -- that KISS performed on Solid Gold back in the day :)

Gene is an aquired taste. I've grown to enjoy some of his stuff over the years, but really, songs he writes are ALWAYS about sex. Some of it , as I said is really good. . . "Domino" from "Revenge" is excellent . . .but much of it is crap.

Of course, just because they sing it, doesn't mean they wrote it (just to be clear). There ARE many Gene sung KISS songs that I like. . "Cold Gin" was written by Ace, and it's a great one. Gene co/writing w/ Paul also yeilds good results ("Great Expectations" , "Rock n Roll all Night" . .

but Gene writing alone?.. . peeee-yeww ("when I go thru her, it's just like, a hot knife, thru butter" (from "Murder in High Heels").

I'm an Ace fan. . .so I really like his stuff, and some of Peter's stuff is OK. .

In terms of the solo albums, I'd go w/ Ace, Paul, Gene, Peter (in terms of "good" albums).

[Ill Communication]

Thanks man.

They have the Elder at the store too. I'll have to hit up Amazon, or someplace and listen.

But your synopsis has pointed in the right direction!

[bert]

Thanks man.

They have the Elder at the store too. I'll have to hit up Amazon, or someplace and listen.

But your synopsis has pointed in the right direction!


No prob..

If you like "heavier" KISS, my fave album is easily "Creatures of the Night" (the last album w/ makeup prior to removing it). Ace had allready left the band -- although his pic is on the cover (it's actually Vinnie Vincent and/or Bruce Kulick playing guitars).

After the misfire that was "the Elder" (at least to fans of heavier KISS), "Creatures of the Night" was a balls-out return to form. Classic songs such as "I Love it Loud" and "War Machine" (hits, that have been staples of KISS' live shows for years), as well as "Keep Me Comin" and others. A nice, heavy album.

Also a bit heavier is "Animalize" (a post Make-up album). . which has the hit's "Heaven's on Fire" , and "All Hell's Breakin Loose" (the refrain of which is the name of the current KISS tour . . "Rock the Nation")

Of course, as I mentioned earlier, the hardest rocking KISS album is "Carnival of Souls".. the last album recorded w/ Bruce Kulick and Eric Singer, prior to the original 4 reforming and putting the makeup back on. If you like Anthrax, that's EXACTLY what this album sounds like to me. Good stuff.

You can't go wrong w/ any of the "classic" KISS albums either.

My favorite is "Destroyer" (with "God of Thunder" , "Flaming Youth", "Detroit Rock City", and the classic track "Beth").

But also excellent are "Love Gun" ("shock me" "love gun" "Christine Sixteen), "Rock and Roll Over" ("Hard Luck Woman" "Makin Love" "I Want You"),
"Dressed to Kill" ("Room Service", "Rock and Roll All Night", "Getaway" (an Ace Written Song w/ vocals by Peter) "Rock Bottom"), the first album "KISS" ("She", "Cold Gin") or either of the two Live Albums (Alive or Alive II) from this era.

bert

[bert]

On your suggestion, I picked up In the Shade at the used CD store. That Forever song is the best.


I also really like "Silver Spoon" and "read my body" from that album. . .but they are more "pop metal"/hair band sound.

if you like this type of KISS, then I also highly recommend another band from around this time: Britney Fox.

Not only does one of the two vocalists sound exactly like Paul, but the songs are pretty damn catchy.

[howyadoin]

You can't go wrong w/ any of the "classic" KISS albums either.

My favorite is "Destroyer" (with "God of Thunder" , "Flaming Youth", "Detroit Rock City", and the classic track "Beth").

But also excellent are "Love Gun" ("shock me" "love gun" "Christine Sixteen), "Rock and Roll Over" ("Hard Luck Woman" "Makin Love" "I Want You"),
"Dressed to Kill" ("Room Service", "Rock and Roll All Night", "Getaway" (an Ace Written Song w/ vocals by Peter) "Rock Bottom"), the first album "KISS" ("She", "Cold Gin") or either of the two Live Albums (Alive or Alive II) from this era.That's where they should've stopped, in my opinion. Dynasty was the end, for me.

[bert]

That's where they should've stopped, in my opinion. Dynasty was the end, for me.

Howy:

Pick up "Creatures of the Night" (1983)

"Revenge" (1994)
or
"Carnival of Souls" (1996)

to hear Classic (ie: hard rock) KISS . . .all are good albums.

"Unholy" from Revenge is as good as anything on Destroyer, and better than anything on Rock n Roll over.

[Deathstroke]

I wish my brother was a poster here on CBR.

He'd really be into this thread.

Speaking of bad Gene stuff, I was listening to The Eddie Trunk show this morning on KNAC.com. He said that Gene's label for his solo album sent out an email that basically apologized for releasing the cover of the Prodigy song "Firestarter" as the first single from "A**hole."

Apparently the song got pretty scathingly reviewed.

It's funny that the one album I know bert HATES is the one I like. Crazy Nights is the one Kiss album I ever owned.

Now my brother had a ton of Kiss stuff. It got stolen, but this past Xmas I sent him a bunch of the albums on CD as a Xmas present.

My question to you bert is: Do you plan on getting a Kiss casket?

[ghostrider666]

I've seen Kiss at LEAST 6 times live. Both with & without makeup.
My fave all time Kiss song would be "Makin Love"
Ace is the reason I play guitar.

[bert]

My question to you bert is: Do you plan on getting a Kiss casket?

Nope.

I think thier merchandising has gotten way outta control, and unless it's something I think is really cool, I don't bother with it. So yeah, I have the McFarlane action figures, but .. .

I think the last "offical" product I bought from them (not counting Tshirts on the reunion tour) was. . the KISS on Tour board game.

I have "gifts".. like KISSopoly(from the ex) or the KISS Bookends. . but I wouldn't have bought those things.

so the VAST majority of my collection is from 1974-1982. (I have the way cool. .hard to find mylar poster set (yep, all 6 posters), and the also very hard to find "Superheroes" poster set from Dynasty).

I don't have the Mego dolls.. but only because I'm unwilling to pay for a set (I do have an open Paul and Ace doll. . .but I found those over the years at garage sales).

No interest in the least in the casket.

[Athena Bast]

Nope.

I think thier merchandising has gotten way outta control, and unless it's something I think is really cool, I don't bother with it. So yeah, I have the McFarlane action figures, but .. .

I think the last "offical" product I bought from them (not counting Tshirts on the reunion tour) was. . the KISS on Tour board game.

I have "gifts".. like KISSopoly(from the ex) or the KISS Bookends. . but I wouldn't have bought those things.

so the VAST majority of my collection is from 1974-1982. (I have the way cool. .hard to find mylar poster set (yep, all 6 posters), and the also very hard to find "Superheroes" poster set from Dynasty).

I don't have the Mego dolls.. but only because I'm unwilling to pay for a set (I do have an open Paul and Ace doll. . .but I found those over the years at garage sales).

No interest in the least in the casket.
What about incense? I saw some KISS incense the other day at the record store.

[Spike-X]

Paul also has a hit on the also mellow album "Unmasked" (makeup period). "Shandi" is a beautiful song, and it was a minor hit for them.



That was actually quite a big hit in Australia at the time. When they came here on their reunion tour, Paul played that song by himself. I don't know whether it was because the rest of the band didn't like it, but whatever the reason, it was an interesting version.

[Rob Imes]

Gene is an aquired taste. I've grown to enjoy some of his stuff over the years, but really, songs he writes are ALWAYS about sex. Some of it , as I said is really good. . . "Domino" from "Revenge" is excellent . . .but much of it is crap.


Just a note here... I was pleasantly surprised (being a big Beatles fan) with a couple of songs on Gene's first solo album that seemed quite Beatley. I wouldn't have thought it of him, but songs like "See You Tonight" (http://music.walmart.com/m/007/31/45/32/38/42/0073145323842.01.01.003.mp3), "Man of a Thousand Faces" (http://music.walmart.com/m/007/31/45/32/38/42/0073145323842.01.01.008.mp3), and "Mr. Make Believe" (http://music.walmart.com/m/007/31/45/32/38/42/0073145323842.01.01.009.mp3) show a big Beatles influence. (Click the links to hear MP3 samples.)

By the way, what's general opinion on the most recent Kiss Alive album, IV, which I understand has KISS accompanied by an orchestra? Sounds good, but what's the verdict of those who have heard it?

[bert]

By the way, what's general opinion on the most recent Kiss Alive album, IV, which I understand has KISS accompanied by an orchestra? Sounds good, but what's the verdict of those who have heard it?

The album is divided into 3 "sets"

The first set is quite bland and what you would expect from a KISS Alive album (which is another way of saying, KISS Alive III sucked, and so does the first set). It's standard KISS playing electric instruments.

Set II is excellent. . it's KISS playing w/ a String Quartet.

Set III is also very good. .that is KISS w/ the full orchestra.

Overall, I'd recommend the double CD. . well done w/ the orchestra.

[ZombieHavoc]

i like gene's songs the best. god of thunder is tops. they all rule though. i like when ace and peter sing too, just because it's not every song. like george and ringo songs, eh.

my favorite kiss song is great expectations.

[Ill Communication]

I totally bought Crazy Nights, and like it better than Hot in the Shade.

However, Forever IS pretty tough to beat.

I also picked up that concept album, and Paul's solo. I was listening to Ace's solo on Amazon, and I just wasn't in to it. I may have to try it again.

[bert]

I totally bought Crazy Nights, and like it better than Hot in the Shade.

However, Forever IS pretty tough to beat.



Um. . .

what?

you LIKE Crazy Nights?

ah well. . . somebody has to like it, I suppose. After all, it did sell over 500,000 copies (gold).

gah. . I dunno what to say about that.

bert

[Deathstroke]

Um. . .

what?

you LIKE Crazy Nights?

ah well. . . somebody has to like it, I suppose. After all, it did sell over 500,000 copies (gold).

gah. . I dunno what to say about that.

bert

Cool, Karma joins me in trying to make Bert's head explode with the fact we actually like Crazy Nights. :D

[Deathstroke]

Hey Bert,

Here's a review from the Winnipeg Sun for the new Gene Simmons solo album. (http://www.canoe.ca/JamAlbumsS/simmons_gene_hole-sun.html)

[Ill Communication]

Boyz, lemmie explain something to you ...

I've been thinking about my KISS obsession as of late, and have come to this conclusion:

What KISS does isn't rocket science.

Just like WK, and Kid Rock ... they produce really schlocky music, that is just, well, endearing. That's what makes them great. :cool:

Now, I suppose I have a penchant for shitty music, it happens, I'll admit it. Sometimes, I find myself putting on the Cherone Van Halen disc (which I never got rid of like everyone else).

But yeah, Crazy Nights is the shit. I bought it for $8, and just the title track alone is worth it.

[Deathstroke]

Sometimes, I find myself putting on the Cherone Van Halen disc (which I never got rid of like everyone else).



Okay, you're on your own after this comment.

[Ill Communication]

It has sentimental value, sort of.

[howyadoin]

Pick up "Creatures of the Night" (1983)

"Revenge" (1994)
or
"Carnival of Souls" (1996)Gah, no thanks. They just don't have the sound that Kiss had in the classic era.

[Catman3]

I'll be seeing KISS this Saturday!

I've been a fan since 1976 but I don't care much for the non makeup era after between 1984 &1990.

ALIVE!,ROCK & ROLL OVER,DRESS TO KILL,HOTTER THAN HELL, CREATURES OF THE NIGHT are my favorite albums.

I have a pretty good amount of KISS audio/video bootlegs too.

[Deathstroke]

Speaking of Kiss!

Here's a pic of their latest marketing concern: Nascar. The car in the photo belongs to driver Kevin Harvick.

Check it out here: Kiss logo race car (http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kevinharvick2004.jpg)

[ghostrider666]

Speaking of Kiss!

Here's a pic of their latest marketing concern: Nascar. The car in the photo belongs to driver Kevin Harvick.

Check it out here: Kiss logo race car (http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kevinharvick2004.jpg)


Oh Yeah! KI$$

[Scottsdale_Saint]

the best non-compilation KISS album IMHO is Rock and Roll Over. it's one of the only album of theirs that i can put on and listen to the entire thing and not feel the desire to skip any tracks. my fave tracks are makin' love, mr. speed, hard luck woman, calling dr. love,...awww who am i kidding i love the whole damn thing! :D

[Catman3]

the best non-compilation KISS album IMHO is Rock and Roll Over. it's one of the only album of theirs that i can put on and listen to the entire thing and not feel the desire to skip any tracks. my fave tracks are makin' love, mr. speed, hard luck woman, calling dr. love,...awww who am i kidding i love the whole damn thing! :D

Me too!
RARO was the very first KISS album I bought back in 1976 and is still my fave.

[Deathstroke]

The new Gene Simmons solo CD A**hole sold 12,913 copies in it's first week of release. It charted at #86 on the Billboard album chart.

[bert]

The new Gene Simmons solo CD A**hole sold 12,913 copies in it's first week of release. It charted at #86 on the Billboard album chart.

I do not own this yet. . I saw it last week (on "sale" for $14.99), but I told the guy at the counter that I was shocked they didn't have a used copy yet.

He agreed that the album is "terrible", and that if I wait a few weeks, I'll be able to find it used

I feel bad for Gene. . but that first single? ewwww. . made my ears hurt :(

(and my fave KISS album is always gonna be "Destroyer", but I also love "The Elder", "Creatures of the Night", "Carnival of Souls" "revenge", and "Dressed to Kill")

[Deathstroke]

Ever wonder if Kiss had been investigated by the FBI?

This article says they were. It also contains a link to a PDF file of the actual FBI files on the band.

Check out the story. (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=31487)

[Hiromi]

Has anyone noticed that Gene's voice seems to have gotten a lot lower over the years?

[TomGun13]

I saw Paul Stanley in Phantom of the Opera in 1999. Very cool, he did well. I think he surprised alot of people.

[Ill Communication]

My new favorite Stanley ballad is Shandi.

It's so awful, it's awesome.

[Alex]

Gene Simmons was on tv tonight, said he voted for Bush.
Which means he IS more of a bussinessman then musician now!
(But he still loves the skirt)

[bert]

Gene Simmons was on tv tonight, said he voted for Bush.
Which means he IS more of a bussinessman then musician now!
(But he still loves the skirt)

It's Gene. ..

He's slept w/ over 3000 women.

He ALWAYS votes for "bush"


he was prolly just confused by the ballot.. like all those old folks in Florida 4 years ago.

[Alex]

It's Gene. ..

He's slept w/ over 3000 women.

He ALWAYS votes for "bush"


he was prolly just confused by the ballot.. like all those old folks in Florida 4 years ago.
HA!
Now that was a good pun.
And i generaly hate puns.

[parasite studios]

HUGE KISS fan here as well.

Or at least I used to be...somedays yes...somedays no...

Here, in my own view, are the KISS albums to own.

HOTTER THAN HELL...Grunge before anyone knew what it was. Great songs.

ALIVE. Of course.

ALIVE III Non-make-up KISS at it's best. Hear them do more than justice
to the old tunes. And FOREVER is on there too.

REVENGE. Just the best.

CARNIVAL OF SOULS...So dark you'll wonder who you're listening too.

Also...if you dig Crazy Nights...check out Asylum. Sort of Dynasty meets
Crazy Nights meets...something. Poppy but not overly done.

The Elder is great. But not something I would recommend to the casual fan.

KISS recorded most of the shows on their last tour professionally. Worth tracking down a couple of those just to get a feel of how they sound NOW.

[Hiromi]

to quote the guy at nolifetilmetal.com, only Kiss would think of releasing its own bootlegs to beat the bootleggers.

[Deathstroke]

Kissworld stores a failure? (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=31971)

[Hiromi]

The project was ill-conceived from day one

Sums the whole thing up about right. Also it looks to have harldy been a Kiss exclusive store.

[bert]

Haw. .

Gene on American Idol tonight was just Brilliant.

the man has a great Business sense.

Heck, I thought he just about nailed my thoughts on some of those singers.

(as far as the KISS store goes. . . eh. .it was in Australia. Way too far for me to even be tempted by it) :)

[iwarrior]

I think Kiss were underrated songwriters. Too many people associate them only with the stage personas. They have so many infectious songs in their catalog and a good share of crap too.

[bert]

I think Kiss were underrated songwriters. Too many people associate them only with the stage personas. They have so many infectious songs in their catalog and a good share of crap too.


Heh. .

The "easiest" way to identify a crap KISS song is to look at the credits. . if it is any album past 1975, and it says "Simmons" (either solo or w/ someone) there is a 98% chance it's crap !

(see "Any Way You Slice it", "Murder in High Heels" or TONs of other crappola).

A good example of the greatness that the 2% represents (majority pre 1975) would be "God of Thunder", "She", or "Domino"

[Spike-X]

to quote the guy at nolifetilmetal.com, only Kiss would think of releasing its own bootlegs to beat the bootleggers.
Not really. Pearl Jam's been doing it for years.

[bert]

Oh I like a lot of Gene's later songs. People slam the 80's stuff. I don't know why. In fact,I think the later albums are heavier and have better musicianship. "Love's a Deadly Weapon" rips. "Rock and Roll Hell"? "War Machine"?

Oh well,different tastes.
But Gene didn't write War Machine (the only one you list that I'd call "good").

He sings it, yes, but it was written by Vinnie Vincent w/ imput from Eric Carr(with possibly some imput from Gene.. I don't recall, and I don't have the album handy. . . . but I know for sure that Gene didn't write it)

as you said tho. . different tastes. . .

[Deathstroke]

Here's the cover of the 3rd issue of the Kiss Quarterly magazine.
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/issue3.jpg

[ZombieHavoc]

i got the peter criss solo disc. im not sure what i was expecting. im not sure if this matches the expectations. i like it ok. i dont see myself listening to it 7 times daily like i did when i got the ace disc.

i second the suggestion for britny fox. they rule. though i dont really see the comparison to kiss of any era. but the s/t album is a classic.

[bert]

i got the peter criss solo disc. im not sure what i was expecting. im not sure if this matches the expectations. i like it ok. i dont see myself listening to it 7 times daily like i did when i got the ace disc.

i second the suggestion for britny fox. they rule. though i dont really see the comparison to kiss of any era. but the s/t album is a classic.

Britney Fox has two lead singers. .and one of them sounds EXACTLY like Paul Stanley.

At least to my ears. .that's what got me into em.

Thier first album is my fave, but the others aint that bad. .

[ZombieHavoc]

i bought asylum on cassette for a dollar. it's not bad. any way you slice it and UH! all night are my personal faves.

[Deathstroke]

McFarlane Toys has new Kiss action figures coming exclusively to Spencer Gifts. They are three packs featuring three Paul Stanley and three Gene Simmons figures.

Here's a ( not so great) look:

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/mcfarlane2.jpg

[Neil]

McFarlane Toys has new Kiss action figures coming exclusively to Spencer Gifts. They are three packs featuring three Paul Stanley and three Gene Simmons figures.
I've been very dorkily wanting a set of "Music From The Elder" figures. There's something about that look that I've always loved, even though I can tell its a rather lame softening of their look... oddly, I guess that's how I feel about the album, too.

[bert]

McFarlane Toys has new Kiss action figures coming exclusively to Spencer Gifts. They are three packs featuring three Paul Stanley and three Gene Simmons figures.

Here's a ( not so great) look:

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/mcfarlane2.jpg


ok. .

looks like we have the figure from the "Alive" box set, the figure from the "Love Gun" box set, and the figure from the "Creatures of the Night" box set.

a nice set if you don't have the others. .but since I have the Creatures and Love Gun sets. . .and the Alive figures were sold separately as well (and I have em), I think I'll give these a pass.

thanks for the heads up tho. .

[bert]

I've been very dorkily wanting a set of "Music From The Elder" figures. There's something about that look that I've always loved, even though I can tell its a rather lame softening of their look... oddly, I guess that's how I feel about the album, too.


oh my god!

Paul w/ that stupid purple bandanna?
Gene w/ that stupid braid?

Ace in that stupid unitard jumpsuit and silver SNEAKERS ???

I hated, hated , HATED the Elder look. The only one who didn't look completely embarrassing was Eric.

brrrrr. . gives me chills just thinking about those outfits.

of course, I love the album to death. . .ranks up there in my top two KISS albums. (Destroyer, then the Elder).

[Deathstroke]

Bert should be hired to consult on Kiss merchandise!

[DonC]

Bert should be hired to consult on Kiss merchandise!


They have consultants that tell them what to release? I always thought is was about money. Gene Simmons would OK official KISS "Lick it Up" tampons if there was enough money in it for him.

[Oracle_0128]

And they are finally releasing "Kiss meets the Phantom of the Park" on DVD....LOL! Just in time for Christmas!

[Deathstroke]

They have consultants that tell them what to release? I always thought is was about money. Gene Simmons would OK official KISS "Lick it Up" tampons if there was enough money in it for him.


I'm sure that's a corner in the fetish department they could corner.

[ghostrider666]

oh my god!

Paul w/ that stupid purple bandanna?
Gene w/ that stupid braid?

Ace in that stupid unitard jumpsuit and silver SNEAKERS ???

I hated, hated , HATED the Elder look. The only one who didn't look completely embarrassing was Eric.

brrrrr. . gives me chills just thinking about those outfits.

of course, I love the album to death. . .ranks up there in my top two KISS albums. (Destroyer, then the Elder).

The look was crap, but a pretty damn good album anyway. A soundtrack to a movie that was never made.

[Neil]

The look was crap, but a pretty damn good album anyway. A soundtrack to a movie that was never made.
Oh, I acknowledge the look was crap... although Gene's was close to something that could've been a great new Demon look, just not close enough... and yet, I still have a strange joyful affection for it.

[mickeygirl]

I can't wait to hear Paul Stanley's new solo cd!

[Deathstroke]

The new Kiss DVD Kiss - Rock The Nation Live has been delayed by a week. It will now arrive in stores on December 13th.

[Deathstroke]

Here's the cover art for the Kiss DVD Kiss - Rock The Nation Live!.

http://img312.imageshack.us/img312/8463/rtnldvd0bi.jpg

[TomGun13]

Anyone here watch Rock School? I missed the last 2 episodes. I think the show is great. Gene doesn't come across as a totally pompus jerk. Its pretty cool to see the kids interact with him.

[bert]

Here's the cover art for the Kiss DVD Kiss - Rock The Nation Live!.




hurm. . . . .

Tommy in Ace's makeup, and Eric in Peter's. . .

I have the DVD of the KISS symphony, and I have SO many bootleg concerts, I think I'll be passing this one up. (just like I've passed up KISS: Gold, w/ the DVD). If I can find it used, I'll pick it up. .but I have most of this stuff already.

[Hiromi]

They did the same thing for Alive IV didn't they? Have whoever it was standing in for Ace and Criss wear the same makeup?

[Deathstroke]

Hey Kiss fans,

Ace Frehley was in the studios with Eddie Trunk.

Here's the pics! (http://eddietrunk.com/pictures/article.php?pictures_id=135)

[bert]

oooo. . .

Ace *really* needs to lay off the cheescake!

he's looking like a member of the Greatful Dead in a couple of those shots.

[The Wayner]

I know that Jack Black's favorite KISS song is "I Love It Loud", and that he's appeared singing different lyrics to its opening.

Anyone know JB's take on the song?

[Deathstroke]

There's a report that some Eric Carr era Kiss songs are going to be released.

Story Link! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=49548)

[bert]

There's a report that some Eric Carr era Kiss songs are going to be released.

Story Link! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=49548)


Hmmm. . interesting.

I thought I had heard most of KISS unreleased material, so most likely, this is stuff that was written by Eric *FOR* KISS, but either never was presented to the band, or for some reason just wasn't given to Gene & Paul (who did most of the Producing during Eric era KISS), and so the tracks weren't available to get out to fans.

of course, not everything (ie: almost nothing) Eric wrote was "gold" -- he WAS the drummer, and not the most "eloquent" song writer . . . but neither is Gene.

If you ever saw Eric's "cartoon" creations, the Rock-hedz (or something like that), you'd know what I'm talking about.

Still. . I'll buy this in a second. I really liked Eric Carr, and was very sad when he passed.

Vinnie Vincent's KISS out-takes are great (for the most part), although you can find most of the earlier ones as releases on the Vinnie Vincent Invasion albums. I'd still love to find some outtakes from the later albums (after he kissed-and made-up w/ Gene and Paul -- Vinnie was involved in some of the better songs on "Revenge")

Thanks for the heads up, Deathy

[Deathstroke]

Thanks for the heads up, Deathy

I do what I can bert!

[Deathstroke]

18" Kiss figures coming soon.

The Story! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=50449)

[Deathstroke]

Here's a look at the faces of the new Kiss sculptures coming soon ( Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=50759)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/ks.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Want to smell like Kiss?

Here's your chance! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=51150)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/wwd1.jpg

[bert]

Want to smell like Kiss?

Here's your chance! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=51150)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/wwd1.jpg


ugh. .

I'll bet the one w/ Gene's makeup smells like Vagina

and who the hell wants to walk around smelling like Vagina ?

[Deathstroke]

ugh. .

I'll bet the one w/ Gene's makeup smells like Vagina

and who the hell wants to walk around smelling like Vagina ?

Well I'm fairly sure that you aren't on that list! :D

[Deathstroke]

Kiss "Destroyer" Canvas Wall art!
Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=51232)

[bert]

Here's the cover art for the Kiss DVD Kiss - Rock The Nation Live!.

http://img312.imageshack.us/img312/8463/rtnldvd0bi.jpg


Well. .

I had said that I'd pick it up if I found it used. .

not quite that, but I DID use my Birthday gift card at Best Buy to pick this up today.

it was only $24, but I wasn't sold on it, until I saw the listing for "Parasite". . it's worth it to get that live (even if I probably have it on a bootleg somewhere).

[Deathstroke]

You big Kiss slut you!

:D

Enjoy it!

[Deathstroke]

Eric Carr's Kiss audition available!

News Story (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=51657)

[Deathstroke]

Looking for a part time job?

How about the Kiss Coffee Shop? (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=52120)

[Deathstroke]

Kiss hits your bathroom and kitchen!

Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53133)

[Deathstroke]

Here's the new Kiss plush dolls.

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_toyvault.JPG

[DanH]

Here's the new Kiss plush dolls.

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_toyvault.JPG


I like the Gene doll,...I've had many mornings when I've felt the same way I have been a long time Kiss fan and finally got to see them a few years ago in HARTFORD ct,...EXCELLENT show looks like they also kicked ass on the recent VH1 rock honors show catch the replay if ya can.

[Jessica Drew]

Kiss hits your bathroom and kitchen!

Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53133)

I showed these to my wife, and she replied: "Two words: Hell. No."

[Deathstroke]

I showed these to my wife, and she replied: "Two words: Hell. No."


She's not adventurous in her home decor eh?

[Deathstroke]

The new Hard Rock Cafe Kiss pins are out. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53375)
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/2_hardrockpins.JPG

[Jessica Drew]

She's not adventurous in her home decor eh?

Not just HOME decor: When I first saw I picture of the KISS Kasket, I asked her about getting it for me one day. She looked at the picture, looked at me, paused a few seconds, and said, "That day may come sooner than you think" and left the room.

[rick]

Ah KISS, you just really can’t go wrong with these boys can you?

Over the last few months I’ve been seriously rediscovering the metal / pop bands of my youth which translates into tons and tons of Alice Cooper, Arthur Brown and KISS, mostly KISS. And it got me to remembering.

Here in Colorado Springs, the premiere hard rock radio station for the last 30 years has been KILO.FM. Back in the 70’s it was the only place you would ever hear Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple, Blue Oyster Cult or honestly anything louder then Elton John. It’s a really decent station that’s managed to earn its reputation as one of the nations best. But at one time, they simply didn’t have any love for the greatest show band in history.

My friends and I would call in on Saturday night when they took requests and ask to hear, Cold Gin or King of the Nighttime World or for that matter anything by KISS. And all we would get is insulted on the phone and ignored on the air, by DJ’s who just couldn’t stand that juvenile crap and were not going to play it under any circumstances ever.

By the way, having spent years working in both comic and record stores this attitude of superiority by older people who completely look down on whatever it is that people younger then them are enjoying is pretty common. Hell I know that once upon a time I used to be as bad about it as anyone. At least until a guy I used to work with at the record store who was about 15 years older then me, let me know that Blood Sweat & Tears, Three Dog Night and the Guess Who were all considered kiddy pop bands when they were new too.

Now KILO was very serious about having in station appearances by any hardcore musician that passed through Colorado that they could get a hold of. Ozzy was on once, and so was Ted Nugent and just a whole bunch of other big time players of the era. But the only visit I really remember was when they had an in-house interview with Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull.

See Ian had been invited on to be interviewed, but to also hang out for a few hours playing his choice of music, and basically playing guest DJ.

The first few songs were more or less typical of what you might expect from a British blues type. A little Yardbirds, a bit of Thin Lizzy, some good tunes but nothing out of the ordinary. And before each song, Anderson would give a little set-up about the song and talk about what it was he liked about the number.

So on the fourth or fifth number, Ian announces that the next song would be Rock Bottom off of KISS’s Dressed to Kill album.

At that point the regular KILO DJ interrupted and laughingly asked Ian what song he was REALLY going to play. But he stopped laughing when Ian said that he was completely serious and the song he wanted to play was Rock Bottom by KISS.

For just a minute the air went silent and then the regular DJ said to Anderson in a voice that was somehow both incredulous and at the same time arrogant that the station didn’t in fact actually have any KISS albums since they didn’t think that anyone who had any kind of taste would ever want to hear anything by them.

Now if this guy had taken this kind of tone with me, I’d have probably popped his head like a zit, but good old Ian, just bursts out laughing and told the DJ that it was a good thing that Ian had brought his own copy.

And so, after a few more seconds of hemming and hawing by the local DJ, Ian Anderson, the rock god of flute played the song Rock Bottom by KISS, on KILO radio.

For days afterwards the KILO DJ’s talked on the air about how weird Anderson’s taste in music was to play “That Band” on a serious radio station. But for me and the few friends that had also caught it, that song was a moment of sweet validation.

There’s also a small postscript to the story.

On Sunday mornings, like quite a few rock stations, KILO plays an oldies show dedicated to the great bands of the past. Not three weeks ago, they dedicated a whole hour to the best of KISS.

Sweet, sweet validation.

[Jessica Drew]

That's a fantastic story. If you've got any more like that, please share them.
It was a joy to read.

[Deathstroke]

Not just HOME decor: When I first saw I picture of the KISS Kasket, I asked her about getting it for me one day. She looked at the picture, looked at me, paused a few seconds, and said, "That day may come sooner than you think" and left the room.


Now that's funny!

[Deathstroke]

Now here's Kiss cycling jerseys and socks. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53408)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_primalwear.JPG

[DonC]

I've said it before and I'll say it again: give him enough money and Gene Simmons will endorse official KISS "Lick it Up" tampons.

KISS was also the subject of a good part of an interview I heard today with Hal Sparks. The most interesting thing, to me, was Sparks saying Tommy Thayer should stop trying mimic Ace 'cause Thayer is the superior musician.

To be honest, I don't know much of Thayer's work. Is he really better than Ace?

[bert]

I've said it before and I'll say it again: give him enough money and Gene Simmons will endorse official KISS "Lick it Up" tampons.

KISS was also the subject of a good part of an interview I heard today with Hal Sparks. The most interesting thing, to me, was Sparks saying Tommy Thayer should stop trying mimic Ace 'cause Thayer is the superior musician.

To be honest, I don't know much of Thayer's work. Is he really better than Ace?


yeah, absolutely.

check out some Black and Blue albums, and it's pretty clear.

although Ace has a very distinctive style, and influenced TONS of other musicians, I think even he would admit that he's not the best player in the world.

[Deathstroke]

Here's an update on the Kiss Coffeehouse. (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=53579)

[Deathstroke]

Here's more news on the Kiss Coffehouse. Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitem.cfm?NewsID=53933)

Oh, and the Kiss 1978 solo albums are being reissued! The Details (http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=4713)

[Deathstroke]

News on some old Gene Simmons demos resurfacing.

Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54049)

[Deathstroke]

Japanese and Russian reissue news HERE! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54088)

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss coffee shop is now open!

News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54322)

[Deathstroke]

Don't have enough Kiss merchandise?

Article link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54379)

[bert]

hmm.. . .

I haven't been interested in almost ANY of this stuff.

last thing I bought (recently too) was a Japanese copy of Dynasty.

it's great, and the song list has been re-arranged, to put all of the ones Gene sings last on the CD.

:)

[Adam Crocker]

I've said it before and I'll say it again: give him enough money and Gene Simmons will endorse official KISS "Lick it Up" tampons.

Reminds me of when and friend and mine were passing through a CD store and we saw Gene Simmons recent solo album. He was inclined to remark "man, Gene Simmons should become a gigolo so he can do the two things he loves most: fucking women and making money."

[vertigoshy]

New to the boards...long time KISS fan. Just wanted to throw in my 2 cents and say that I think the songs that Gene sings on PSYCHO CIRCUS are some of his best. Most of the time, I prefer Paul, as most seem to, but Gene has his moments. Besides the stuff on PC...I really like World Without Heroes, some of the stuff on REVENGE, among others.

Just wondering if they're ever going to put out a new studio album...I haven't heard anything.

[bert]

New to the boards...long time KISS fan. Just wanted to throw in my 2 cents and say that I think the songs that Gene sings on PSYCHO CIRCUS are some of his best. Most of the time, I prefer Paul, as most seem to, but Gene has his moments. Besides the stuff on PC...I really like World Without Heroes, some of the stuff on REVENGE, among others.

Just wondering if they're ever going to put out a new studio album...I haven't heard anything.


I think they are too busy w/ wth "peripherals" (like the coffee shop) right now.

I know Paul's been having Hip surgeries (the 2nd one was just before VH1's Rock Honors). . .and Paul has a new solo album that's been done for a while now (don't know why it hasn't been released -- maybe due to him not being able to tour right now due to the surgeries?).

haven't heard anything about a new album tho. . maybe Deathstroke has heard something?

[Deathstroke]

I think they are too busy w/ wth "peripherals" (like the coffee shop) right now.

I know Paul's been having Hip surgeries (the 2nd one was just before VH1's Rock Honors). . .and Paul has a new solo album that's been done for a while now (don't know why it hasn't been released -- maybe due to him not being able to tour right now due to the surgeries?).

haven't heard anything about a new album tho. . maybe Deathstroke has heard something?

Nope nothing in regards to a new studio album so far. Of course I'll keep you up to date should that news occur.

[Deathstroke]

Former Kiss guitarist Vinnie Vincent has a signature guitar coming out.
DETAILS (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54474)

http://www.celebrityrockstarguitars.com/rock/images/VVV12.jpg

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss Truck up for auction!

News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=54775)

[Deathstroke]

There's even more Kiss products coming out.

Story Detail (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=55067)

[Deathstroke]

It appears that Paul Stanley's solo CD Live To Win will be released on October 3rd.

[Deathstroke]

News on Kiss Wall art! (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=55874)

[Deathstroke]

Here's news on the Kiss Hard Rock Cafe pins.

Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=55975)

[Buried Alien]

Kiss didn't make the Rock 'n Roll Hall of Fame this year, and the band's fans are up in arms. Rock folks kind of consider the Rock Hall of Fame a dubious honor anyway (it's too "Establishment," I guess), but even so, Kiss does merit induction.

Buried Alien (The Fastest Post Alive!)

[Deathstroke]

Kiss fragrances are coming next month.

Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=56881)

[Deathstroke]

Kiss barbecue aprons and baby doll T-shirt are coming....

Article Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=56933)

[Catman_3]

Happy Birthday Gene Simmons!!
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/693/genealiveii7fa.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Here's more on the Kiss fragrances. Story link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57167)

[Deathstroke]

Kiss album cover collectible pins. News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57340)

Kiss makeup kits. News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57337)

[Deathstroke]

In case you ever needed Kiss Hallmark cards....Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57482)

[Deathstroke]

There's new Kiss Masks coming out for 2006.
Information (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57559)
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/masks2006.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Here's some more "Smell Like Kiss" news.

Article Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57701)

[Deathstroke]

A new Kiss pinball machine is coming.
Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57819)

[Deathstroke]

Check out the new Kiss football jersey.
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/football.jpg

[Deathstroke]

A Kiss box set featuring the 3 Alive! albums will be released by Universal Music in November. Story Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=57973)

[Jessica Drew]

Check out the new Kiss football jersey.
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/football.jpg

Hot damn! That sucker is mine!

EDIT...just looked at the price, so let me re-phrase:

Hot damn! That sucker is mine!
...if my wife gives me permission to buy it.

[Deathstroke]

Octover 31st will bring the release of the DVD [i]Kissology: Volume One 1974 - 1977.

Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=58069)

[Deathstroke]

Here's the details for the Kiss 20th Century MAsters: Millenium Collection Volume 3.

Details link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=58219)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_kiss_milleniumvol3_cover.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Paul Stanley has a new painting out called Karma. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=58724)
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/stanley_canvas_3.JPG

Here's an interview with drummer Eric Singer. (http://www.davesontour.com/interviews/singer.html)

[Deathstroke]

Go cycling all decked out with Kiss Cycling gear. News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=58602)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/primal.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Some video footage from 1976 can be seen via this link. (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=60124)

[Deathstroke]

The box set Kiss Alive! 1975 - 2000 will soon be released by Universal Music. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=60186)

http://www.kissnews.de/Hauptseite/AliveBoxSetklein.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Here's a new online review of Paul Stanley's solo CD Live To Win (http://www.savioursofrock.com/reviews/ReviewspaulstanleyL2W.htm)

[Deathstroke]

Here's news on the Kiss Album Cover lithograph series.

Information Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=60403)

[Deathstroke]

More Kiss collectibles - Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=60547)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kis_pintglasses_package.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Here's more information on the band's Kissology release.

News article (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61098)

[Deathstroke]

Here's some more Kiss collectibles. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61165)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/newitems.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Here's a review of the Paul Stanley CD Live To Win. (http://www.rockislife.com/2006reviews/livetowin.htm)

[Deathstroke]

Kissology DVD easter egg news - News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61444)

Kiss Collector Pin news - Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61441)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_novpins.JPG

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss merchandise train just keeps a'rollin.

The Kiss Tootbrush (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=61571)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/hasbro.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Peter Criss will release a new solo album called One For All in early 2007.

[Deathstroke]

Kiss drumstick pens. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=62520)
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kis_pen.JPG

[Ill Communication]

Here's a review of the Paul Stanley CD Live To Win. (http://www.rockislife.com/2006reviews/livetowin.htm)


Hey, did we already talk about how awful this album is, that it's great? When I bought my copy, I was laughed at.

[Deathstroke]

Hey, did we already talk about how awful this album is, that it's great? When I bought my copy, I was laughed at.

I don't know if we talked about it. I haven't heard it. The review is from the site I write for but I didn't write the review.

[bert]

Hey, did we already talk about how awful this album is, that it's great? When I bought my copy, I was laughed at.

I'll have to assume that if you think the CD is awful, that you haven't really listened to it more than once. I'd been working on posting something about it here, but just haven't gotten to it (until now)

do a favor, and listen a few more times, as this is definately a CD that improves on a piss-poor first impression, after multiple listenings.

I got this two weeks before release, and have been digesting it on multiple listens on my drive to work for the past month or so.

on my first listen, I was very disappointed, and would have only given this a D or D+, but honestly, after multiple spins, the CD would get a very high B+ only missing an "A" due to one truly awful song that just doesn't improve w/ multiple listens.

The first thing to remember, is that it's not a KISS album.

So, the fact that only 3 of the songs even sound like KISS songs (and those are from the mid 80's CDs) is only a problem if you were looking for a KISS CD, not a Paul Stanley CD.

the title track (and first single, and first song on the album), "Live to Win" sounds JUST like something you would hear during an 80 movie like "Visionquest" or "Flashdance" while a montage is showing the main character working out and getting ready for the big race/dance/tournament/game.

it's really cheezy, and I was disappointed when I first heard it. . but the more I listened to it, the less I minded the cheezy-ness of it, and realized it's a pretty decent pop song. (Of course, nothing can save the refrain where Paul yells "LIVE" (pause) "WIN" (pause) "LIVE" (pause) "WIN".

first listen? F after multiple listens? B

the second song,Lift would be a HUGE, HUGE hit, if Evanescance recorded it. Makes me wonder if it was written for them? Great song, but not necessarily one that Paul should be singing.

first listen? C+ after multiple listens? A+

"Wake up Screaming" sounds like something Rockwell would have recorded if he were fronting a band like Bon Jovi in the 80's. Again, not a song that really "feels" like something Paul should be singing. . but not bad, and definately catchy.

first listen? D multiple listens? B-

"Everytime I see you Around" is a standard Paul Stanley ballad. "Forever" part IX, similar to what he's been writing for years. Not bad at all, but not a showstopper.

first listen? B multiple listens? B+

"Bulletproof" -- the first song on the CD that sounds like a KISS song. very much a sister song to "you make me Rock Hard" from the CD "Smashes, Thrashes, and Hits". it has some truly awful lyrics, but definately one of the better songs on the CD, with a driving drumbeat, blistering guitar, and catchy lyrical hook (the only thing it's missing. .and I'm surprised Paul *didn't* drop it in, is a "bang-bang" lyric in the refrain).

first listen? C+ multiple listens? A

"All about You" -- another KISS sounding song. .this one would fit in perfectly after "I Just Wanna (forget you)" from "Revenge".
It's just as hard, w/ some amazing guitar, and sure to be one that gets a hell of a reaction live. This one won't surprise me at all when it pops up during the next KISS tour.

first listen? B- multiple listens? A

"Second to None" - standard Paul ballad, but not as good as track 4.
Loses points for the terrible refrain "you might not be the first, but for me you're always second to none". But does have some nice harmonies later in the song.

first listen? C- multiple listens? C+

"It's Not Me" Doesn't sound like anything KISS has ever done, nor anyone else's song. Easily my favorite track on the CD, the one I tend to put on first. A great driving song, w/ a nice, thick, drumbeat driving the song.

first listen? B multiple listens? A+

"Loving You Without You Now"
horrible little ballad that's among the worst Paul has ever written. worse than "God Gave Rock n Roll to You II"

It sounds like an outtake from "Xanadu" that Olivia would sing when she's begging G_d to let her go back to Earth.

bleh

first listen? D- multiple listens? D-

"Where Angels Dare" -- the third track that sounds like KISS -- this time around 1980 (the time of "the Elder"). A great "epic" song, with some great visuals, and Paul's voice exactly in the range that works for him.

A song that definately grew on me (and it doesn't hurt that "the Elder" is in my top 3 KISS albums.

good stuff.

first listen? B multiple listens? A

as a HUGE KISS fan, and someone who hates w/ a passion Gene's "Asshole" album that came out last year, I'd say give Paul's CD a few spins.

it grows on you, if you give it a shot.

bert

[Ill Communication]

I think I misspoke ... it's not that it's bad per se, but it is awful cheesy and kitschy. I enjoy it though.

[Deathstroke]

I think I misspoke ... it's not that it's bad per se, but it is awful cheesy and kitschy. I enjoy it though.

And that's never happened with Kiss material before?

[Deathstroke]

Kiss Pinball Machine news - Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=62834)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/pinball1.JPG

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss Demon 3 figure set is coming! Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=62919)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/1_kis40236.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Here's news on the new Kiss playing cards. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=63111)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kissplayingcards.JPG

[Deathstroke]

Kiss DVD cancelled?

News Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=63366)

[Deathstroke]

A limited edition Eric Carr Kiss figure is coming out soon.

News Article (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=65757)

Pictures of the Figure! (http://www.limitedtoysdesign.com/ericcarr/ericcarr.html)

[Deathstroke]

Christine Sixteen 2: Another High School Tribute To Kiss will be released in April.
http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/cs2_cover.jpg

[Deathstroke]

New Kiss Comics news HERE. (http://news.yahoo.com/s/nm/20070130/music_nm/media_kiss_dc)

[Deathstroke]

Here's more on the Kiss Comic news. [url=http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66170]Details are here![/i]

[Deathstroke]

Here's a look at the Soundscan era sales of Kiss albums.

Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66867)

[bert]

Here's a look at the Soundscan era sales of Kiss albums.

Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=66867)

Well, Smashes,Thrashes, & Hits makes sense as being a big seller, as it contained two new songs, and they were both pretty good -- you still hear "X in sex" pretty regularly if you go to a strip club.

it also has a selection of "hits" that's slightly different from most of the other collections. Prior to the ALIVE! box set coming out, Smashes was always the album I put on for greatest hits (that or Double Platinum).

the ALIVE! box set kicks all kinds of ass tho. . I have a new appreciation for ALIVE III -- which I loaned to someone and it got stolen, and I never bothered to replace. It holds up much better than I remembered, and "Unholy" is pretty good live.

[Deathstroke]

Here's news on Gene Simmons and his new clothing line (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=68301)

[Kissgrlll]

I'm new to this, and I'd really like to get my hands on a copy of Paul in The Phantom of the Opera. Any ideas where I could find that?

[Kissgrlll]

Bert,
Live to Win is one CD that definitely grows on you. At first, I was a little disappointed.:( But lots of things were disappointing at that time. My 14 yr old daughter had just tried to commit suicide and was in a psych hospital (this girl is/was a genius and an honor student with everything to live for and this was all over a boy). I had a chance to listen to this CD over and over on these hour long drives to and from the hospital. Believe it or not, once SHE heard Live to Win, it sort of became her anthem. She's home now and whenever we get the chance we put that CD on and scream the lyrics to Live to Win. Oh, and did I mention that the ringtone for my phone is Wake up Screaming? Kiss and their music has totally gotten me, and now one of my kids, through some very heavy crap in our lives. Live to Win, man.:cool:

[bert]

I'm new to this, and I'd really like to get my hands on a copy of Paul in The Phantom of the Opera. Any ideas where I could find that?

What part of Texas do you live in?

Austin has the world famous Austin Record Convention http://www.austinrecords.com/

looks like the Spring show got cancelled, but the Fall one (in Nov.) is still on.

usually it's twice a year, and dealers from all over the world show up.

I've found TONS of rare, and impossible to get (ie: bootleg) stuff there.

I'd say, that's your best bet to find a DVD copy of Paul in Phantom, or a CD of him doing it.

[bert]

Bert,
Live to Win is one CD that definitely grows on you. At first, I was a little disappointed.:( But lots of things were disappointing at that time. My 14 yr old daughter had just tried to commit suicide and was in a psych hospital (this girl is/was a genius and an honor student with everything to live for and this was all over a boy). I had a chance to listen to this CD over and over on these hour long drives to and from the hospital. Believe it or not, once SHE heard Live to Win, it sort of became her anthem. She's home now and whenever we get the chance we put that CD on and scream the lyrics to Live to Win. Oh, and did I mention that the ringtone for my phone is Wake up Screaming? Kiss and their music has totally gotten me, and now one of my kids, through some very heavy crap in our lives. Live to Win, man.:cool:

I'm sorry to hear about your trying time, and very glad you got thru it (even if it is w/ one of the weaker songs on the CD :))

My thoughts and prayers, and I hope all continues to just get better and better!

(and hunt down "Hot in the Shade" if you don't have it. . a GREAT KISS CD that Paul wrote most of the songs on.

you'll like it!

[Deathstroke]

A new Paul Stanley Starchild figure is due out this month. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=69530)

http://paulstanley.com/images/content_images/sid7150lg.jpg

[Deathstroke]

The guy who did the photography for the first Kiss album has died.

News Article (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=69791)

[Deathstroke]

Ex-guitarist Mark St. John died today at the age of 51 from a cerebral hemorrage.

News Link (http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=5960)

[Deathstroke]

Kiss statements on the passing of Mark St. John.

Article Link (http://www.knac.com/article.asp?ArticleID=5485)

[Deathstroke]

Here's a look at a new Paul Stanley painting called "Tokyo Rain"

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/tokyo.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Peter Criss will release his solo album One For All on July 24th via Silvercat Records/Sony Records/Red.

[Deathstroke]

The first ever Kiss appearance on TV from 1976 will be released on DVD.

Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=72448)

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss Rock And Roll Over dinner table. Info Link (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=73087)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kis41229.jpg

[Deathstroke]

Peter Criss will release his solo album One For All on July 24th via Silvercat Records/Sony Records/Red.


Here's the cover art for the CD.

http://petercriss.net/homepage/images/news/allforone001.jpg

[Deathstroke]

The book Gene Simmons' The Art Of War will be out in the fall from Phoenix Books.

Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=74167)

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss DVD Kissology Volume 2 is coming out. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=75281)

[Deathstroke]

Here's more details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=75827) on the Kissology Volume 2 DVD set.

[bert]

I am SOOOO in line for this.

screw the IPhone. . I want this NOW!!!

(I can finally retire my bootleg VHS tapes w/ the Shandi Videos and the Rio show).

[ACK!]

I am SOOOO in line for this.

screw the IPhone. . I want this NOW!!!

(I can finally retire my bootleg VHS tapes w/ the Shandi Videos and the Rio show).


Make sure you watch the entire DVD before you do that. Because of the incomplete bonus DVDs that came out with the first KISSology, I had to hold on to a couple of my bootlegs anyway.

[DonC]

I am SOOOO in line for this.

screw the IPhone. . I want this NOW!!!

(I can finally retire my bootleg VHS tapes w/ the Shandi Videos and the Rio show).


Wait, you were going to get a cell phone?!?

[bert]

Wait, you were going to get a cell phone?!?

nah. . I just meant I wanted this more than things other folks are willing to wait in line for.

that RIO show is amazing. . I hope the whole show makes it.

(and ACK. . by "retire" I don't mean "toss". . I mean, just put them into my KISS closet, w/ the 8tracks and Cassettes I don't ever listen to anymore, but still keep).

[ACK!]

(and ACK. . by "retire" I don't mean "toss". . I mean, just put them into my KISS closet, w/ the 8tracks and Cassettes I don't ever listen to anymore, but still keep).

Gotcha. Kind of like my KISS LPs that sit on a shelf and never get played. To really experience the classic KISS era, you had to get the albums. Being able to look at the cover art in the 12" by 12" format, along with all the posters, inserts & KISS Army ads was quite an experience.

CDs were a good five years from hitting the marketplace when I first became a KISS fan. Gawd, I'm a thirty year veteran of the KISS Army - man, how time flies!

[bert]

Gotcha. Kind of like my KISS LPs that sit on a shelf and never get played. To really experience the classic KISS era, you had to get the albums. Being able to look at the cover art in the 12" by 12" format, along with all the posters, inserts & KISS Army ads was quite an experience.

CDs were a good five years from hitting the marketplace when I first became a KISS fan. Gawd, I'm a thirty year veteran of the KISS Army - man, how time flies!

I joined up in 74. . so that's 33 for me :)

yep, I still pull out the albums quite often. . love the "popping" the vinyl makes.

and I have all the inserts and cool stuff (heh. . we just moved, and I had to be careful not to bend the orginal "Love Gun" or the Rock N Roll Over sticker, when I undid the cabinets.

It makes my partner CRAZY

[Deathstroke]

Here's news (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=76141) on an upcoming Kiss memorabilia auction.

[bert]

Here's news (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=76141) on an upcoming Kiss memorabilia auction.

those aren't the Destroyer Costumes.

those are the "Alive" era costumes.

for Destroyer, paul had the "starfield" bodysuit, Ace had the V-neck starfield, and Gene had the Dragon boots.

bleh. .know your KISS stuff if you are going to post about an auction.

[Deathstroke]

those aren't the Destroyer Costumes.

those are the "Alive" era costumes.

for Destroyer, paul had the "starfield" bodysuit, Ace had the V-neck starfield, and Gene had the Dragon boots.

bleh. .know your KISS stuff if you are going to post about an auction.

Hey bert, I didn't say anything about the validity of the auction claims. I just posted the info. Don't shoot the messenger.

[bert]

Hey bert, I didn't say anything about the validity of the auction claims. I just posted the info. Don't shoot the messenger.

I was talking about Blabbermouth, silly, not you!

[Deathstroke]

I was talking about Blabbermouth, silly, not you!


Ahhh I misunderstood, sorry.

[ACK!]

Speaking of KISS...

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/2_kiss_vol2_cover_hi-res.jpg

KISSONLINE.com

VH1 CLASSIC RECORDS ANNOUNCES, ON THE HEELS OF KISSOLOGY VOL. 1’s 5x PLATINUM SALES AND #1 DEBUT, KISSOLOGY VOL. 2 IN STORES TUESDAY, AUGUST 14TH - “KISSOLOGY: VOLUME TWO 1978-1991”

WILL INCLUDE NEVER BEFORE SEEN EUROPEAN VERSION OF RARE CULT CLASSIC FILM “KISS IN ATTACK OF THE PHANTOMS" AVAILABLE FOR FIRST TIME ON DVD


VH1 Classic Records will release “KISSology: Volume Two 1978-1991” the second installment of the definitive 3-part collection on DVD Tuesday, August 14, 2007.

Now 5x platinum, “KISSology: Volume One” is a proven MUST OWN hit that chronicles the beginning of a band that has lasted over 30 years. Fans can pick up where Volume One left off when “KISSology: Volume Two” hits shelves.

"The sales numbers for 'KISSology: Volume One' confirm just how big and powerful the KISS fan base is," said Paul DeGooyer, Senior Vice President, DVD/Audio/Electronic Games, MTV Music Networks and Logo. "Working with Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley and the entire KISS organization on this historic project was a phenomenal way to kick off the VH1 Classic Records imprint. We can't wait to deliver Volume Two to the fans."

“KISSology: Volume Two 1978-1991” is an expanded 3 disc set boasting nearly 7 hours of rare or never-before- seen footage featuring notorious television interviews and early KISS music videos. Volume Two follows KISS from the height of mid 70’s KISSteria through the departure of Peter and Ace, the KISS unmasking and the Eric Carr years. Additionally, this DVD set will include the previously never before seen European theatrical version of the 1978 cult classic KISS film - "KISS IN ATTACK OF THE PHANTOMS" - complete with scenes not seen in the U.S. version!

KISS has sold 80+ million records throughout their career. The group has earned more than 55 gold, platinum and multi-platinum awards since receiving its first gold record for "KISS Alive!" in 1975. KISS has performed more than 3500 concerts in front of nearly eighty million fans in virtually every country on planet earth.

Launched in May 2000, VH1 Classic is a 24-hour network that presens videos, concerts and music specials all day long, featuring the best of rock, soul and pop artists from the 60s, 70s, 80s and early 90s, including The Beatles, The Stones, Tina Turner, Led Zeppelin, Marvin Gaye, The Who, Stevie Wonder, The Police and many more. Learn more at www.vh1classic.com.

With the same pristine, digitally-restored video as Volume One and coupled with a 5.1 audio mix, Volume Two features stunning visual quality and impeccably detailed sound designed to meet the approval of the most demanding KISSmaniac.

“KISSology: Volume Two 1978-1991” is produced by Alex Coletti and co-produced by Roger Coletti.

DISC ONE

LAND OF HYPE AND GLORY 1/10/78: EXCERPT

KISS IN ATTACK OF THE PHANTOMS 1979: MOVIE

THE TOMORROW SHOW WITH TOM SNYDER 10/31/79: EXCERPT

TOTAL RUN TIME: 1 HOUR, 41 MIN


DISC TWO

“SHANDI” 1980: MUSIC VIDEO

CNN INTERVIEW WITH PETER CRISS 9/24/80

COUNTDOWN 9/21/80: EXCERPT

ROCKPOP 9/13/80: “SHE’S SO EUROPEAN” & “TALK TO ME”

KISS INVADES AUSTRALIA 11/80: DOCUMENTARY

SYDNEY SHOWGROUND:S YDNEY, AUSTRALIA 11/22/80

“DETROIT ROCK CITY”
“COLD GIN”
“STRUTTER”
“SHANDI”
“CALLING DR. LOVE”
“FIREHOUSE”
“TALK TO ME”
“IS THAT YOU”
“2,000 MAN”
“I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN’ YOU”
“NEW YORK GROOVE”
“LOVE GUN”
“GOD OF THUNDER” (INCOMPLETE)
“ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE”
“SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”
“KING OF THE NIGHT TIME WORLD”
“BLACK DIAMOND”

FRIDAYS 11/11/81: “THE OATH”, “A WORLD WITHOUT HEROES” & “I”

TOP POP 11/82: “I LOVE IT LOUD”

TOTAL RUN TIME: 2 HOURS, 4 MIN


DISC THREE

MARACANA STADIUM: RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL 6/18/83

“CREATURES OF THE NIGHT”
“COLD GIN”
“CALLING DR. LOVE”
“FIREHOUSE”
“I LOVE IT LOUD”
“WAR MACHINE”
“BLACK DIAMOND”
“ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE”

MTV SPECIAL: KISS UNMASKING 9/18/83: INTERVIEW

CASCAIS HALL: LISBON, PORTUGAL 10/11/83

“CREATURES OF THE NIGHT”
“DETROIT ROCK CITY”

THE SPECTRUM: PHILADELPHIA, PA 12/18/87

“LOVE GUN”
“BANG BANG YOU”
“NO, NO, NO”
“CRAZY CRAZY NIGHTS”
“REASON TO LIVE”

THE PALACE OF AUBURN HILLS: DETROIT, MI 10/14/90

“I STOLE YOUR LOVE”
“DEUCE”
“HEAVEN’S ON FIRE”
“CRAZY CRAZY NIGHTS”
“BLACK DIAMOND”
“SHOUT IT OUT LOUD”
“STRUTTER”
“CALLING DR. LOVE”
“I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN’ YOU”
“FITS LIKE A GLOVE”
“HIDE YOUR HEART”
“LICK IT UP”
“GOD OF THUNDER”
“FOREVER”
“COLD GIN”
“TEARS ARE FALLING”
“I LOVE IT LOUD”
“LOVE GUN”
“DETROIT ROCK CITY”
“I WANT YOU”
“ROCK AND ROLL ALL NITE”

DAY IN ROCK 11/25/91 :“GOD GAVE ROCK ‘N’ ROLL TO YOU II” 1991 MUSIC VIDEO

TOTAL RUN TIME: 3 HOURS, 3 MIN

[ACK!]

Bonus Disc One...

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/bonusdisc1a.JPG

KISSONLINE.com

(Pictured is the actual printing proof for the front and back cover of one of the bonus discs)

Inside sources confirm that, like Vol. 1, there will, in fact, be three different limited edition “4th bonus discs” in the initial pressings of KISSOLOGY Vol. 2. Retailer details are not confirmed at this time. The shows to be featured are:

Capital Centre – Largo, MD – 7/7/79 (Dynasty Tour) [track listing forthcoming, though ALL 4 solo albums songs will be included]

Budokan Hall – Tokyo Japan – 4/21/88 (Crazy Nights Tour)

The Ritz – New York City – 8/13/88 (Crazy Nights Tour)

Everyone should feel confident that no matter where they go within the first week or two of release, they’ll get a 4 disc version. Excitement and value are big considerations for everyone involved in the KISSOLOGY series. For those interested in all three bonus discs, specific retailer details will be forthcoming.

THE COUNT DOWN TO KISSOLOGY 2 BEGINS!”

[ACK!]

Bonus disc 2...

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/largo.JPG

KISSONLINE.com

Pictured is the actual printing proof for the front and back cover of the Largo Show bonus disc.

Track listing from the Capital Centre Show – Largo, MD – 7/7/79 (Dynasty Tour) is:

"Radioactive", "Move On", "Calling Dr. Love", "Firehouse", "New York Groove", "I Was Made For Lovin' You", "Love Gun", "Tossin' And Turnin' ", "God Of Thunder", "Shout It Out Loud", "Black Diamond", "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock And Roll All Nite".

THE COUNT DOWN TO KISSOLOGY CONTINUES!”

[Deathstroke]

Here's an interview with drummer Eric Singer (http://www.ccbanana.com/sludge/20questionsericsinger.htm).

Ace Frehley has filmed a commercial for Dunkin Donuts. Youtube Link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl2ZzDpSrKw)

[bert]

Here's an interview with drummer Eric Singer (http://www.ccbanana.com/sludge/20questionsericsinger.htm).

Ace Frehley has filmed a commercial for Dunkin Donuts. Youtube Link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl2ZzDpSrKw)

hmm. . I have no idea what that has to do w/ Donuts. . and Ace sounds like he's drunk out of his mind. . . .

[Deathstroke]

hmm. . I have no idea what that has to do w/ Donuts. . and Ace sounds like he's drunk out of his mind. . . .

I'm at a loss myself.

[bert]

Damn. . .

I hope this turns out okay!

http://www.cnn.com/2007/SHOWBIZ/Music/07/28/kiss.singer.reut/index.html

[JohnPopa]

Bonus disc 2...

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/largo.JPG

KISSONLINE.com

Pictured is the actual printing proof for the front and back cover of the Largo Show bonus disc.

Track listing from the Capital Centre Show – Largo, MD – 7/7/79 (Dynasty Tour) is:

"Radioactive", "Move On", "Calling Dr. Love", "Firehouse", "New York Groove", "I Was Made For Lovin' You", "Love Gun", "Tossin' And Turnin' ", "God Of Thunder", "Shout It Out Loud", "Black Diamond", "Detroit Rock City" and "Rock And Roll All Nite".

THE COUNT DOWN TO KISSOLOGY CONTINUES!”

Wonder why they cut 'King of the Nighttime World,' which is the opener from this show.

[DWEarhart]

Paul Stanley's suffers a heart ailment.

Kiss singer/guitarist Paul Stanley suffered a sudden heart ailment prior to the band's July 27 show at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto, CA. necessitating the group play without him.

As Stanley recalls it on the Kiss web site, "during sound check, my heart spontaneously jumped to 190 plus beats per minute where it stayed for over an hour necessitating paramedics to start an IV and give me a shot to momentarily stop my heart and get it into a normal pattern. Not knowing if this episode was life threatening made it even more exhausting." Stanley's present condition is unknown.

At the show, bassist Gene Simmons, guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer did their best to cover for Stanley, leaving Kiss to play as a trio for the first time in its 30-plus-year career. The band got a little help with vocals from fans in the audience helping out on "Christine Sixteen" as well as Singer taking the mic for "Nothin' to Lose" and "Black Diamond."

The show was the last of three Kiss had on tap for this summer.


Credit to: Billboard.com

[bert]

Paul Stanley's suffers a heart ailment.

Psst. . two posts up. . .

[Spike-X]

Wonder why they cut 'King of the Nighttime World,' which is the opener from this show.
That sucks! It's one of my favourite KISS songs.

[bert]

Wow. .

KISSOLOGY Vol. II is freakin FANTASTIC!

(of course, I made the special trip to WalMart to get the Dynasty show featuring the solo album songs as the bonus disc.

it was on sale on Tuesday for $24.88 ($10 cheaper than the online walmart.com was offering).

poor Nick. . I had to drag him all over town to find a Walmart (since we just moved to Cedar Park two months ago, and didn't know where one was :)).

[Deathstroke]

poor Nick. . I had to drag him all over town to find a Walmart (since we just moved to Cedar Park two months ago, and didn't know where one was :)).


Wow, usually you can find a Wal-mart within 5 miles of anywhere you happen to be. :D

[Deathstroke]

And now there will be a Kiss Rubik's Cube.

Article (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=79025)

http://www.kissonline.com/news/images/kisspuzzlecube1.JPG

[Deathstroke]

The new Kissology Volume 3 is due out in December. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=81344)

[bert]

The new Kissology Volume 3 is due out in December. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=81344)

wow. . by December?

I haven't even gotten all the way thru KISSology II yet!

[Deathstroke]

wow. . by December?

I haven't even gotten all the way thru KISSology II yet!

I guess the countdown clock to finish II so you can watch III is on then, eh?

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss Loves You DVD will be out November 20th. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=82216)

A new solo album from Ace Frehley is tentatively due in January.

[ZombieHavoc]

I was listening to Dynasty the other day and wondering why that record gets such a bad rap. Calling it a "disco" album is absurd. And any Kiss album that limits Simmons to only two tracks is okay in my book. Not that I don't like some of his songs, a lot in fact, but he's definitely the weakest vocalist of the band, in my opinion.

[ACK!]

I was listening to Dynasty the other day and wondering why that record gets such a bad rap. Calling it a "disco" album is absurd. And any Kiss album that limits Simmons to only two tracks is okay in my book. Not that I don't like some of his songs, a lot in fact, but he's definitely the weakest vocalist of the band, in my opinion.

You're right. Because "I Was Made For Lovin' You" was a worldwide disco-flavored hit, Dynasty gets slagged as a disco album. Much in the same way the Bee Gees got branded as a disco group because of their massive success with their singles on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack when they'd been around for several years as a veteran pop act.

Both groups felt a backlash as a result of their disco dabblings and saw their success tail off in the early part of the '80s.

[bert]

Hmmm. .

I'd classify a few songs on Dynasty as disco:

1. I Was Made For Lovin' You (disco)
2. 2000 Man (rock)
3. Sure Know Something (rock ballad)
4. Dirty Livin' (rock-disco. . to swipe a description Ace once infamously used -- rock w/ a disco beat)
5. Charisma (disco)
6. Magic Touch (rock-disco : rock, but with a disco beat)
7. Hard Times (rock)
8. X-Ray Eyes (pop. . the "ahhhs" in the refrain are what do it)
9. Save Your Love (rock)

so I can see how this album gets tagged as a "disco" album. . . simply because it has more "disco" songs than even "Unmasked"

it's one of my faves tho . . and much better than most of the late 80's output (Crazy Nights? Asylum? bleh).

of course, I've never been one to hold KISS to one Genre. . "the Elder" is WAY up there on my favorites list. . and you always hear how KISS fans hated the album.

[ACK!]

of course, I've never been one to hold KISS to one Genre. . "the Elder" is WAY up there on my favorites list. . and you always hear how KISS fans hated the album.

Actually, KISS fans either love or hate it with very little in between. You'd be surprised at the following The Elder has among KISS fans. I happen to be in the "love it" camp. It's a great experiment with some great tunes. Maybe not the typical KISS album, but a great one nevertheless.

The Elder has inspired a comic book adaptation as well as a high school musical version of it. I forget where that happened, but it was several years ago and I was surprised that someone felt so passionately to adapt it into a stage musical.

[bert]

Actually, KISS fans either love or hate it with very little in between. You'd be surprised at the following The Elder has among KISS fans. I happen to be in the "love it" camp. It's a great experiment with some great tunes. Maybe not the typical KISS album, but a great one nevertheless.

The Elder has inspired a comic book adaptation as well as a high school musical version of it. I forget where that happened, but it was several years ago and I was surprised that someone felt so passionately to adapt it into a stage musical.

if played in the correct order (the orginal US release had the songs out of order. . I had to have the import from Mexico later that same year in order to fully appreciate the album), it's a pretty nifty little quest story.

the remasters put the tracks into the correct order, if I'm not mistaken.

[ACK!]

if played in the correct order (the orginal US release had the songs out of order. . I had to have the import from Mexico later that same year in order to fully appreciate the album), it's a pretty nifty little quest story.

the remasters put the tracks into the correct order, if I'm not mistaken.

Yep, yer right. What's known as the international version was released everywhere but the US. When the execs at Polygram Records heard the album, they demanded a remix and resequence to emphasize harder rocking tracks, hence the original US album began with "The Oath."

I held on to my original US CD, which has the "out of order" song sequence and is long out-of-print. It does flow better from a story point of view on the remastered version, I agree.

And if you get KISSology Volume II, you will own the only live performances of Elder material (from the Fridays TV show) from this time period, as KISS didn't tour behind the album.

[Deathstroke]

Here's the art for Kissology - Vol. 3 1992 - 2000

http://kissonline.com/news/images/kissology3.JPG

[ACK!]

I'm glad they're ending this series in 2000, with the original band on the, ahem, "Farewell" tour. That was the last time I saw them live and that's the way I prefer to remember them.

If anyone wants the tribute band KISS, there are always the KISS Symphony and Rock The Nation DVDs as well as some Instant Live CD sets floating around from the 2004 tour.

[Deathstroke]

More Kissology 3 details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=82880).

[ZombieHavoc]

Here are my top 35 favorite KISS songs, presented in chronological order, for simplicity (and because I could never order them from least to greatest...too hard):

-from KISS:
1. Strutter (obviously)
2. Kissin' Time

-from Hotter Than Hell:
3. Mainline

-from Dressed to Kill
4. Anything For My Baby
5. Rock and Roll All Nite

-from Destroyer
6. King of the Nighttime World
7. God of Thunder

-from Rock and Roll Over
8. I Want You
9. Calling Dr. Love
10. Hard Luck Woman

-from Love Gun
11. I Stole Your Love
12. Shock Me
13. Tomorrow and Tonight
14. Hooligan
15. Then She Kissed Me

-from Ace Frehley
16. Rip It Out
17. Speedin' Back to My Baby

-from Paul Stanley
18. Wouldn't You Like to Know Me

-from Dynasty
19. 2,000 Man
20. Hard Times

-from Unmasked
21. Tomorrow
22. Two Sides of the Coin
23. Torpedo Girl

-from Creatures of the Night
24. I Love it Loud

-from Lick It Up
25. Lice It Up
26. And on the 8th Day

-from Animalize
27. I've Had Enough (Into the Fire)
28. Heaven's On Fire
29. Burn Bitch Burn

-from Asylum
30. Any Way You Slice It

-from Crazy Nights
31. Crazy Crazy Nights
32. Reason to Live

-from Hot in the Shade
33. Forever (fucking love this, and I don't care)

-from Revenger
34. Unholy
35. God Gave Rock N' Roll to You II

[ACK!]

Here are my top 35 favorite KISS songs, presented in chronological order, for simplicity (and because I could never order them from least to greatest...too hard):

-from KISS:
1. Strutter (obviously)
2. Kissin' Time

-from Hotter Than Hell:
3. Mainline

-from Dressed to Kill
4. Anything For My Baby
5. Rock and Roll All Nite

-from Destroyer
6. King of the Nighttime World
7. God of Thunder

-from Rock and Roll Over
8. I Want You
9. Calling Dr. Love
10. Hard Luck Woman

-from Love Gun
11. I Stole Your Love
12. Shock Me
13. Tomorrow and Tonight
14. Hooligan
15. Then She Kissed Me

-from Ace Frehley
16. Rip It Out
17. Speedin' Back to My Baby

-from Paul Stanley
18. Wouldn't You Like to Know Me

-from Dynasty
19. 2,000 Man
20. Hard Times

-from Unmasked
21. Tomorrow
22. Two Sides of the Coin
23. Torpedo Girl

-from Creatures of the Night
24. I Love it Loud

-from Lick It Up
25. Lice It Up
26. And on the 8th Day

-from Animalize
27. I've Had Enough (Into the Fire)
28. Heaven's On Fire
29. Burn Bitch Burn

-from Asylum
30. Any Way You Slice It

-from Crazy Nights
31. Crazy Crazy Nights
32. Reason to Live

-from Hot in the Shade
33. Forever (fucking love this, and I don't care)

-from Revenger
34. Unholy
35. God Gave Rock N' Roll to You II

What, no "Love Theme From KISS?":eek:

[bert]

What, no "Love Theme From KISS?":eek:

Or anything from "Carnival of Souls". . .that had some great tracks on it.

[ACK!]

Or anything from "Carnival of Souls". . .that had some great tracks on it.


Yep. "Master And Slave" is a one that comes to mind off the top.

Too bad KISS doesn't do a COS "reunion" tour (Kulick and Singer w/ no makeup) - that would be much cooler than what's out there now.

[ZombieHavoc]

Or anything from "Carnival of Souls". . .that had some great tracks on it.

I did not care for that album at all, personally.

[bert]

That's a great idea Zombie Havoc.

instead of listing my faves, since there are so many, I'm gonna do it a little different -- My favorite two tracks from each official KISS release :)

I'm only gonna pick my top two from each album, which is gonna be really hard for albums where I love most of the songs (most of the early albums), and even tougher for the late 80's albums I truly can't stand.

here we go:

KISS (1974)

COLD GIN
100,000 YEARS


HOTTER THAN HELL (1974)

GOT TO CHOOSE
PARASITE


DRESSED TO KILL (1975)

ROCK BOTTOM
SHE


ALIVE! (1975)

FIREHOUSE
C'MON AND LOVE ME


DESTROYER (1976)

GOD OF THUNDER
FLAMING YOUTH


ROCK AND ROLL OVER (1976)

I WANT YOU
CALLING DR. LOVE


LOVE GUN (1977)

I STOLE YOUR LOVE
SHOCK ME


ALIVE II (1977)

KING OF THE NIGHT TIME WORLD
ALL AMERICAN MAN


PAUL STANLEY (1978)

TONIGHT YOU BELONG TO ME
MOVE ON


PETER CRISS (1978)

YOU MATTER TO ME
THAT'S THE KIND OF SUGAR PAPA LIKES


ACE FREHLEY (1978)

SPEEDIN' BACK TO MY BABY
NEW YORK GROOVE


GENE SIMMONS (1978)

RADIO ACTIVE
TUNNEL OF LOVE


DOUBLE PLATINUM (1978)

STRUTTER '78
LOVE GUN


DYNASTY (1979)

SURE KNOW SOMETHING
CHARISMA


UNMASKED (1980)

IS THAT YOU?
WHAT MAKES THE WORLD GO 'ROUND


(Music from) THE ELDER (1981)

THE OATH
DARK LIGHT


KILLERS (1982)

DOWN ON YOUR KNEES
PARTNERS IN CRIME


CREATURES OF THE NIGHT (1982)

KEEP ME COMIN'
WAR MACHINE


LICK IT UP (1983)

ALL HELL'S BREAKIN LOOSE
A MILLION TO ONE


ANIMALIZE (1984)

HEAVEN'S ON FIRE
GET ALL YOU CAN TAKE


ASYLUM (1985)

WHO WANTS TO BE LONELY
TEARS ARE FALLING


CRAZY NIGHTS (1987)

GOOD GIRL GONE BAD
THIEF IN THE NIGHT


SMASHES, THRASHES, and HITS (1988)

LET'S PUT THE X IN SEX
I LOVE IT LOUD


HOT IN THE SHADE (1989)

FOREVER
SILVER SPOON


REVENGE (1992)

UNHOLY
I JUST WANNA


ALIVE III (1993)

CREATURES OF THE NIGHT
HEAVEN'S ON FIRE


UNPLUGGED (1996)

A WORLD WITHOUT HEROES
I STILL LOVE YOU


YOU WANTED THE BEST, YOU GOT THE BEST (1996)

ROOM SERVICE
I STOLE YOUR LOVE


CARNIVAL OF SOULS (1997)

RAIN
THE JUNGLE


GREATEST KISS (1997)

I WAS MADE FOR LOVIN' YOU
FLAMING YOUTH


PSYCHO CIRCUS (1998)

I PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO THE STATE OF ROCK and ROLL
INTO THE VOID


The Very Best Of Kiss (2002)

HOTTER THAN HELL
NEW YORK GROOVE


Symphony: Alive IV (2003)

LICK IT UP
GREAT EXPECTATIONS

[howyadoin]

SPEEDIN' BACK TO MY BABYNow there's a great tune that you hardly ever hear about.

[bert]

Now there's a great tune that you hardly ever hear about.

ain't it tho?

Ace's Solo album (Paul's too), were a couple of the HARD ones to narrow down to two choices, as I definately like more than half the tracks.

others that fall into really "like more than half the tracks"?

Dressed to Kill
Destroyer
Love Gun
the Elder
Animalize
Creatures of the Night
Revenge


(oh, and to be fair, Zombie Havok mentions the Ace song too, in the post before mine).

[pariah-1972]

I was really shocked how well there Mtv unplugged album came out.

[Spike-X]

I read in the paper today that Kiss will be playing at the Australian Grand Prix.

Oh, and this morning on the radio, I heard Back In The New York Groove.

[Spike-X]

You're right. Because "I Was Made For Lovin' You" was a worldwide disco-flavored hit, Dynasty gets slagged as a disco album. Much in the same way the Bee Gees got branded as a disco group because of their massive success with their singles on the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack when they'd been around for several years as a veteran pop act.

Both groups felt a backlash as a result of their disco dabblings and saw their success tail off in the early part of the '80s.
Serves 'em bloody right then, doesn't it?

[ACK!]

Serves 'em bloody right then, doesn't it?

Oh come on, almost everybody was dabbling in disco back in the late '70s!!

It could have been much worse - like rap!!:eek:

[bert]

Oh come on, almost everybody was dabbling in disco back in the late '70s!!

It could have been much worse - like rap!!:eek:

(ummm. . . . "All Hell's Breaking Loose")

[Jessica Drew]

(ummm. . . . "All Hell's Breaking Loose")


I am cool/I am the breeze

[ACK!]

(ummm. . . . "All Hell's Breaking Loose")

Okay, ya got me there!!

I remember reading an interview with Eric Carr years back about how he wrote the guitar riff to that song, brought it to Paul, who helped write it into a full song and added the rap part. He said he was surprised by it at first, but that it actually made the song better.

But reading between the lines - I forget what Carr's exact words were- I got the impression he really wasn't happy with the "rap" at the beginning, as he saw the song as being more like Led Zeppelin's "Kashmir."

[Deathstroke]

Kiss Pinball Machine preview (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=84166).

[Deathstroke]

The Kiss DVD Lick It Up will be out December 18th. Details (http://www.roadrun.com/blabbermouth.net/news.aspx?mode=Article&newsitemID=84512)

[SUPERECWFAN1]

An Open Letter To GeneTM SimmonsTM:

Dear Mr. SimmonsTM,

Wow. That's all I've got to say. So you "have no desire" to record any new material because of us fans, it's our fault. We are just a bunch a college punks downloading music and putting 100,000 to a million people out of work. If you had your way, we would get our asses sued until we lost our cars and homes. That would teach us a lesson! Further, you think the labels are idiots who are losing millions because they don't know what they are doing, and the fact they failed to punish us years ago is the reason behind it.

As if the music industry has lost that many people because of downloading. The money people spend on music has increased over the years. Concert sales alone have doubled this decade. But you know this, because you have no problem touring. The labels that lose money, due so because they fail like any business that is run poorly; welcome to Economics 101. Britney Spears makes over $700,000 per month for the privilege to make a complete ass of herself daily – There's your wasted return on investment, along with every single cookie-cutter repeat the label throws millions at in the hopes the last one will stick. You know who makes money off of that, Entertainment Tonight, not the labels. However, the idiocy of the major labels running around like Enron with a better drug dealer is not the reason we're having this conversation.

The fact you blamed the fans for not recording new music is why we are here.

You know GeneTM, I think you seriously over estimate the demographic of your audience. If you think you're going to attract the youth of this country with any new material, then you seriously don't get it. College kinds are not going to listen to your music like the kids did 30 years ago. In fact, the ones that would buy a new album are the very same kids from the 70's and 80's, and they do not download songs. Sorry to be the one to break this to you, but you're sound is dated. Sure, you admirably tried to roll with the changing sound-scapes in the 90's with albums like Revenge. You tried hard, but didn't get good sales, only that unworthy intangible thing called critical praise from the rock and metal critics. But artists look for that, not corporate boardrooms, right? When the sales were not up to standards you dropped it and retreated to the hype of the original band line-up, and produced the critical failure Psycho Circus. Yes, it went gold, notably due to hype, but even that tank of gas ran empty real fast. Gold? That's not good enough, is it? Britney could record her kids crying for attention and it would go gold due to the hype. That must have really hit home, and you know how I know that?

I know because it was the last new album KissTM ever put out. I count eight major releases since then, and they are all live albums, box sets, and best of compilations. The only new things are recordings of the same songs live, or the promise of older unreleased material for future box sets. Oh, and you have done exactly one solo album in 2004.

Just how did that little solo album do? That's what I thought. Honestly, I haven't heard it, and it could be the best thing since Elvis appeared on TV, but I doubt it. It would have been a huge seller and made waves, but it wasn't and that is the real issue. You don't want to make a great album; you want to sell an album. Remember when you did both? And isn't it interesting that you had no problem doing that album despite the fact illegal downloading was just as notorious then. Or maybe downloading became the excuse after your album failed to get the sales you wanted. If you think that, then wake up. If some yes man is telling you this, then fire him. I find it difficult to believe that the band that reinvented the rock concert can't adjust to a changed music scene.

You have new endorsement deals, a reality show, DVD releases, and onwards with your business deals, and to be honest I think all of that is great. I'm a free-market guy, and if you can make money on that stuff, the more power to you. People buy it because they like it, and if you provide them entertainment then that is all good. But that is GeneTM SimmonsTM the entertainer, the media businessman.

This letter is regarding you, the musician. Yes, you have always focused on entertainment – That was the point of your band. But you were also musicians. You recorded music that a generation put on the record player and partied to. You were entertaining, but your music was entertaining and more. Even us hardcore metal kids dug albums like Creatures of the Night and got into your older material, even with the glam. But a lot of people, your fans, they loved you. They didn't join the "Kiss Army" because you were entertaining; they joined because of everything you guys represented, all burned lovingly into your music which they repeatedly played.

We should have seen it sooner: The disco album (whose bright idea was that), the comics, action figures, lunch boxes, and the rest of the merchandising hell. And you know what? You're fans didn't care then because it was part of the whole KissTM experience. They had music they loved to play, with your stuff to collect, and feel part of something special. And you kept coming back. More records, more tours, more KissTM. Sure, some albums didn't always do well, but the fans loved them and you always came back. You were a rock band, the cutting edge of over the top, firing on all cylinders and always there for your fans.

And to think, a quarter century later you are now going to tell those fans, the ones who would buy a new album, that you will not do it and it's their fault.

You know, the first dude I ever met who knew how to play guitar was a huge fan of your band. He knew all your songs, he practiced the guitar parts, and loved to tell stories about how he saw various band members do solo performances, acoustic gigs, and other things we never heard about. He was proud of that and absolutely loved you guys.

I wonder how he feels knowing you won't record a new album, and it's his fault.

You self-righteous-Machiavellian assclown. How dare you blame your fans, the very people that paid your way to the dance in the first place. The fans made you, and gave you the image and money you used to launch SimmonsTM Industries into the media entertainment force you think you are today. And you thank them by telling them this? You tell them that the industry that made you, and the fans that paid you, are the screw ups. News flash, anyone with half a brain knows that you're in this for the money. Money isn't a bad thing, accept when it is the driving force, and it's become patently obvious it's controlling the wheel while you lounge in the back seat flipping off the people chasing behind you.

If you were as smart of a businessman as you pretend to be, you would be on the cutting edge of new technology and taking advantage of the new trends in music. You could be putting your name behind exclusive download labels, or even a website dedicated to bands. How about the first KissTM all digital library on a memory card, with exclusive content like new music (encoding is possible and wouldn't piss off your fans), memory savers for the computer, special website access for additional content, good Lord the list goes on. You could get what? Maybe $99 for something like that plus charge a subscription to your website on top of it. Add streaming live content and it would be a gold mine. Shit, I came up with this in like 5 minutes. YOU, with the right people could run riot and revolutionize the whole damn business. You did it with concerts in the 70's and you could do it in cyber space now. What happened to that guy?



pt.1... pt 2 coming....

[SUPERECWFAN1]

But that is the legacy of an artist, a force of change, and that is not you anymore. You know why you really won't do any new music - Because it doesn't pay as well. You make more money off of reality shows, trademarks, merchandise, paying someone to box up unreleased extras, then you could with new material that will do lackluster sales, as if sales measured success to a real artist. But you have just shown the world that you are not an artist; you're a commercial set to lowest denominator. You want new music? No one home; but if you need some quick entertainment, call 1-900-PAY-GENE. We're not good enough for you to write music, because we're thieves, but you'll take our money on recycled greatest hits packages and DVD's. You know another profession that doesn't respect their customers but will take money for the same old thing over and over again: Prostitution. You're a whore, willing to claw and fight for your share of dollars from every John you despise, but unable to bother doing something useful because it might not pay for your "Life style". You probably trademarked WhoreTM as well. At least we now know the origins of the make-up.

Speaking of face paint, fighting for money, and trademarks, let's talk Kind Diamond. Your lawyers sent a cease-and-desist letter to him because of his face paint; evidently a heavy metal dude in white paint with upside-down crosses, singing in a falsetto voice might be mistaken for you and "confuse the public". Remember that little quote? That's from your attorney letter sent to King. He complied, as he was going to start a new tour so he changed his look to fit his new album, figuring it would be easier than fighting your lawyers in court. You trademarked the bands face paint? That's trademark No. 1,130,566 for trivia buffs. You must think your fans are really stupid to confuse Lick it Up with Abigail.

Oh yea, we know about your litigation happy lawyers. You're infamous for them. Here is a recent one – The threatened lawsuit against the band Kittie. The all girl metal group decided to start their own little label to self release there album, and the label name was "Kiss of Infamy". Evidently, we music fans are too stupid to realize the difference, and it might somehow prevent people from purchasing KISS HITS – The Regurgitated Singles: #19. Like some all girl metal band is a threat to you squeezing a few more dollars out of the work you did 20 years ago. They caved, of course, figuring it would be easier to change the name than spend money on fighting your lawyers.

Nice legacy – You're the music industry equivalent of the nuisance lawsuit.

You know what those two bands have in common, and different from you? They both have put out multiple new albums in the last decade, you have not. They have created something new, you've recycled. They move forward, you keep going back. They spend time playing music; you spend time making business deals. They tour and perform with other bands, you sue other bands. They engage their fans, you blame yours.

The gig is up SimmonsTM. If you really hate the music business and the fans this much, then it is time to get out. That's right. Sell it out, just as if you were selling a company, because that is what it has become to you. Get with your buds and sell the whole KissTM empire off to someone who does care. It's a business to you, so take the final step - You'll be rich. And maybe someone who likes music will do something with your legacy for the fans and make money. What a concept. Maybe we'll get a museum, and I'll go someday and marvel at the glory of the band that once had the greatest show on earth. It would be easier than living with the cheap circus it has become.

Get out of music; you don't want to be here, and were sick of you loitering. Just collect your final paycheck, walk away, and don't let the door hit you in the AssTM on the way out.

Thank you.

Wow.....so Simmons threatened Kittie and another band over face paint ?

[pariah-1972]

Kittie don't use face paint so it must be the word kiss they are trying to trademark which is almost as laughable as trademarking face paint.
i am wondering if that all really happened tho? the guy seems majorly pissed off..
anyways if Gene is complaining and saying he wont release any more new music because of downloads taking away his money,
then that is just sour grapes and an excuse to me,
there is no way a veteran group is going to sell like they used to or hit the top of the charts ( Eagles being the exception cause they havent had a new record out in decades and wal mart thing was a helluva promotion)

besides it's not like he really needs more money he just likes it because it strokes his ego i'm sure.
he released a solo album not to long ago and im sure he wasn't expecting that to do as well as a new kiss album?
i think if he really wanted to make a new Kiss record he could i mean whats stopping him?
him and paul are the main songwriters in the group anyways.

[Spike-X]

Great letter. Thanks for posting it, Super.

[bert]

Wow.....so Simmons threatened Kittie and another band over face paint ?

Kittie didn't get sued, but got a cease and desist over the proposed Record Label name. Nothing to do w/ fans being too stupid to know the difference, but everything to do w/ protecting a copyright.

King Diamond did get threatened w/ a lawsuit over his facepaint, but I believe he changed the makeup before any legal stuff got filed. Take a look at King Diamond's original makeup. . it *is* awful close to Gene's.

the man is protecting his product -- product he worked his ass off to produce, market, and sell to the public.

I have absolutely no issue w/ Gene protecting the KISS trademark.

(and keep in mind, they have never sent any cease and desist to ICP, or EZO -- two other bands that use white/black greasepaint makeup (hell. . Gene was even involved in producing EZO's first US release).

in fact, ICP threw lawsuits KISS' way -- suing over theft of intellectual property (if I'm not mistaken) over "Psycho Circus" . . claiming it ripped off ICP's schtick. I believe that case didn't go anywhere, as KISS had a pretty solid claim that Psycho Circus was a natural progression from "Carnival of Souls". . the prior album. Of course, Gene could have just paid them off too. . I have no idea.


but this "open letter"? Seems like a crock to me. Yes, Gene's album was terrible, but he continues to write books, and hell, the special edition of Gene Simmon's Family Jewels box sex comes w/ a bonus CD w/ two Gene songs (yeah. the show isn't really great, but it's a Gene CD, and it's a special edition, and it was cheap at Amazon. . so I own it).

Paul has only produced one solo album since Psycho Circus as well (tho his was much better than Gene's).

and dont' forget. . KISS continues to tour and do shows (only stopping when Paul had his hip surgery, and the recent heart issues).



all in all? this "open letter" smells like a fake.

just my 2 cents.

[bert]

there is no way a veteran group is going to sell like they used to or hit the top of the charts ( Eagles being the exception cause they havent had a new record out in decades and wal mart thing was a helluva promotion)


the KISSology box sets set some sort of sales records (not sure, but I think Vol I was the best selling DVT set (music) to date -- which is why all the chains were clamoring for exclusive discs for KISSology II (at least 3 versions were available).

so yeah, the KISS stuff that has been released recently -- while not NEW songs, still sells very well.


him and paul are the main songwriters in the group anyways.

I'd strongly argue that the best songwriter in the group was Ace, who penned some of the band's biggest "hits" (although he doesnt' sing on most of the very early ones) -- "Cold Gin" "Parasite" "She" (w/Gene), "Shock Me", "Rock n Roll all Night" (w/ Gene and Paul), "God of Thunder" (w/ Paul) -- yep, all Gene did was sing it. . and many more of the early songs.

Paul is a brilliant ballad writer, but Gene is so hit or miss, most KISS fans love Dynasty, simply because it only has two Gene songs on it :)

[pariah-1972]

Kittie didn't get sued, but got a cease and desist over the proposed Record Label name. Nothing to do w/ fans being too stupid to know the difference, but everything to do w/ protecting a copyright.

King Diamond did get threatened w/ a lawsuit over his facepaint, but I believe he changed the makeup before any legal stuff got filed. Take a look at King Diamond's original makeup. . it *is* awful close to Gene's.

the man is protecting his product -- product he worked his ass off to produce, market, and sell to the public.

I have absolutely no issue w/ Gene protecting the KISS trademark.

(and keep in mind, they have never sent any cease and desist to ICP, or EZO -- two other bands that use white/black greasepaint makeup (hell. . Gene was even involved in producing EZO's first US release).

in fact, ICP threw lawsuits KISS' way -- suing over theft of intellectual property (if I'm not mistaken) over "Psycho Circus" . . claiming it ripped off ICP's schtick. I believe that case didn't go anywhere, as KISS had a pretty solid claim that Psycho Circus was a natural progression from "Carnival of Souls". . the prior album. Of course, Gene could have just paid them off too. . I have no idea.


but this "open letter"? Seems like a crock to me. Yes, Gene's album was terrible, but he continues to write books, and hell, the special edition of Gene Simmon's Family Jewels box sex comes w/ a bonus CD w/ two Gene songs (yeah. the show isn't really great, but it's a Gene CD, and it's a special edition, and it was cheap at Amazon. . so I own it).

Paul has only produced one solo album since Psycho Circus as well (tho his was much better than Gene's).

and dont' forget. . KISS continues to tour and do shows (only stopping when Paul had his hip surgery, and the recent heart issues).



all in all? this "open letter" smells like a fake.
just my 2 cents.Believe it or not i found the website where this was posted from the guys name who wrote this is dan haggerty.

[pariah-1972]

the KISSology box sets set some sort of sales records (not sure, but I think Vol I was the best selling DVT set (music) to date -- which is why all the chains were clamoring for exclusive discs for KISSology II (at least 3 versions were available).

so yeah, the KISS stuff that has been released recently -- while not NEW songs, still sells very well.



I'd strongly argue that the best songwriter in the group was Ace, who penned some of the band's biggest "hits" (although he doesnt' sing on most of the very early ones) -- "Cold Gin" "Parasite" "She" (w/Gene), "Shock Me", "Rock n Roll all Night" (w/ Gene and Paul), "God of Thunder" (w/ Paul) -- yep, all Gene did was sing it. . and many more of the early songs.

Paul is a brilliant ballad writer, but Gene is so hit or miss, most KISS fans love Dynasty, simply because it only has two Gene songs on it :)Well then either someone made it up that he no longer wishes to record new material or hes being a major drama queen and blaming his lack of new material on other people.
i think Psycho circus did well too yes?
anyways 2. Cold Gin" "Parasite" "She" (w/Gene), "Shock Me", "Rock n Roll all Night" (w/ Gene and Paul), "God of Thunder" (w/ Paul)
only one of those were a hit and that was co written by two other people.
3. Gene would have lost in court to Kittie but he knew they wouldn't have the money to fight him out in a lengthy court battle but what he did was still shitty as hell.
KISS is trademarked as a band name yes but that doesn't mean he can sue anyone for using the word kiss for a label or a song or whatever it just doesn't work that way unless it said something like "kiss records"
*-*

[Spike-X]

Kittie didn't get sued, but got a cease and desist over the proposed Record Label name. Nothing to do w/ fans being too stupid to know the difference, but everything to do w/ protecting a copyright.


Bullshit. Just because the name of the band is Kiss (TM), doesn't mean they can stop people using the word Kiss as part of the name for any other music-related endeavour.

[bert]

i think Psycho circus did well too yes?


it did go at least Gold. I'm not sure if it went Platinum.

it certainly sold better than some of the "flop" albums (the Elder, Unmasked), but it's not a great album -- tho there are one or two standout tracks that still get performed live.



2. Cold Gin" "Parasite" "She" (w/Gene), "Shock Me", "Rock n Roll all Night" (w/ Gene and Paul), "God of Thunder" (w/ Paul)
only one of those were a hit and that was co written by two other people.

we are using different measuring here. When I say "hit", I'm talking about within the context of KISS music (ie: do they play it live, is it one of the fan faves). . as KISS never really did get much radio play.

if we went by radio play, I think the biggest "hit" would be "Beth" (written by Peter), but we would also have to count "I Love it Loud" (a Gene song that got a lot of radio play in the early 80's).

but I mean "hit" as determined by KISS fans.

arguably the #1 song by a fan would be "Cold Gin"

In retrospect, I shouldn't have said "hit". . I should have said "best loved"

but my argument that Ace is the best songwriter remains :)


3. Gene would have lost in court to Kittie but he knew they wouldn't have the money to fight him out in a lengthy court battle but what he did was still shitty as hell.

KISS is trademarked as a band name yes but that doesn't mean he can sue anyone for using the word kiss for a label or a song or whatever it just doesn't work that way unless it said something like "kiss records"
*-*

you are most likely correct, as Gene can be a real ass when it comes to money matters.

I've met him (certainly not "hung out" with him, but met him, on several occasions, and he was very nice and a very cool guy.

One time in the 80's, at the Rock and Roll auction in Houston (at the Summit), he knew we had been "camping" out by the artist's entrance. EVERY other artist--including the gals from Vixen, Joe Lynn Turner, Gregg Guiffria, and others -- came out to sign autographs and take pictures. Gene had his limo drop him off behind the security checkpoint, and other than a wave, we didn't see him.

Kevin Seal (remember him from MTV?) who was there hosting the aution, came out a couple of hours into it (to smoke, or leave. . or something, I don't remember) and we chatted with him. After saying our dedication to hang out was "cool", he gave us his backstage all access badge -- which myself and a friend took turns using to go back past the security checkpoint.

when Gene saw me? He immediately said hello, made a comment along the lines of "oh!. . so I see you managed to get backstage!", and then signed several autographs and posed for pics with me.

so. . . he didnt' go out of his way to make it *easy* to get to him, but when he saw I was there, he was easily one of the most friendly Rock Guys I've met (Eric Carr would be way up there too).

My opinion of Gene is that he's a good guy.

[SUPERECWFAN1]

Kittie don't use face paint so it must be the word kiss they are trying to trademark which is almost as laughable as trademarking face paint.
i am wondering if that all really happened tho? the guy seems majorly pissed off..
anyways if Gene is complaining and saying he wont release any more new music because of downloads taking away his money,
then that is just sour grapes and an excuse to me,
there is no way a veteran group is going to sell like they used to or hit the top of the charts ( Eagles being the exception cause they havent had a new record out in decades and wal mart thing was a helluva promotion)

besides it's not like he really needs more money he just likes it because it strokes his ego i'm sure.
he released a solo album not to long ago and im sure he wasn't expecting that to do as well as a new kiss album?
i think if he really wanted to make a new Kiss record he could i mean whats stopping him?
him and paul are the main songwriters in the group anyways.

What I get from the letter is Gene has taken to blame the fans. No new KISS record....its your fault for the whole downloading thing. Its never a good thing when people in bands blame their fans.

[bert]

What I get from the letter is Gene has taken to blame the fans. No new KISS record....its your fault for the whole downloading thing. Its never a good thing when people in bands blame their fans.

the fact that the letter writer is putting TM after every mention of KISS, Gene, Simmons, etc?

if the letter is real?

it reeks of sour grapes from a money deal that went wrong. . .

[SUPERECWFAN1]

the fact that the letter writer is putting TM after every mention of KISS, Gene, Simmons, etc?

if the letter is real?

it reeks of sour grapes from a money deal that went wrong. . .

It reads like an angry fan letter....


Sample from letter :
Wow. That's all I've got to say. So you "have no desire" to record any new material because of us fans, it's our fault. We are just a bunch a college punks downloading music and putting 100,000 to a million people out of work. If you had your way, we would get our asses sued until we lost our cars and homes. That would teach us a lesson! Further, you think the labels are idiots who are losing millions because they don't know what they are doing, and the fact they failed to punish us years ago is the reason behind it.


Its a site critic and angry fan letter pretty much. The reason he put KissTM at the end of each thing seems to promote that Gene is too busy selling the band like a business and it mocks that aspect of him now. Hell at the end he wants Simmons to go ahead and sell the band since it could make him a bigger millionaire than he already is...

I don't see a business deal gone sour here. Just an online fan who has became a critic of Gene Simmons.

[pariah-1972]

I haven't read anything that says that Gene was blaming the fans which probably wouldn't be a smart move since they tend to be extremely dedicated.
i don't really understand the logic of him saying that the industry is so bad that i can't release new music, but it's good enough for me to release a box set with a ton of unheard stuff?

anyways it's probably just an excuse since he seems rather busy with all his other entrepreneurial stuff like his tv show and race car promotion.

creatively i think Kiss is pretty much dead unless Gene changes his mind.

[bert]

Gene is known for getting out of deals quick if it's losing money. . and also for turning down pitches for KISS merchandise if he doesnt' think it will sell (yeah, I know the impression is that Gene approves everything, but there's TONS of unproduced stuff that was pitched and just not approved as a license).

so, my gut instinct is that this is about money, or a deal of some sort.




for a fan to NOW bitch about the merchandising (while bringing up stuff from the 70's -- the comic book, the "disco" album). . just doesn't make any sense. They did MORE merchandising in the 70's/80's than now. . .

[bert]

creatively i think Kiss is pretty much dead unless Gene changes his mind.

no way.

you know what 2008 is?

35th Anniversary.

there will be a tour -- I can pretty much guarantee that (most likely w/ Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer).

it would be great if they would bring back Bruce and "re-unite" the makeup-less KISS and just do a tour from Lick it Up forward. . . . the fans would probably come out in droves for that :)

[SUPERECWFAN1]

Gene is known for getting out of deals quick if it's losing money. . and also for turning down pitches for KISS merchandise if he doesnt' think it will sell (yeah, I know the impression is that Gene approves everything, but there's TONS of unproduced stuff that was pitched and just not approved as a license).

so, my gut instinct is that this is about money, or a deal of some sort.




for a fan to NOW bitch about the merchandising (while bringing up stuff from the 70's -- the comic book, the "disco" album). . just doesn't make any sense. They did MORE merchandising in the 70's/80's than now. . .

I think its more about the fact that as a fan ...this guy loved Kiss. Now imagine if you read somewhere (this guy claims he read it where Gene has said no New Kiss Album ) that your hero basically trashes you and claims its your fault. I can see some heat there.

Maybe an e-mail to the guy can find out where he read that Simmons did blame the fans. Plus its a music critic and I doubt he had some business deal with Gene. Because o be honest 411mania.com isn't some great music site. Its small time.

[pariah-1972]

no way.

you know what 2008 is?

35th Anniversary.

there will be a tour -- I can pretty much guarantee that (most likely w/ Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer).

it would be great if they would bring back Bruce and "re-unite" the makeup-less KISS and just do a tour from Lick it Up forward. . . . the fans would probably come out in droves for that :)Touring is not creative unless you are a jam band in my opinion.

[Spike-X]

My opinion of Gene is that he's a good guy.

I'm sure he is, as long as you don't get between him and a buck.

Here's (http://ca.today.reuters.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=entertainmentNews&storyID=2007-11-14T183959Z_01_N14187018_RTRIDST_0_ENTERTAINMENT-KISS-COL.XML) the original interview that's sparked off the blog frenzy.

[SUPERECWFAN1]

I'm sure he is, as long as you don't get between him and a buck.

Here's (http://ca.today.reuters.com/news/newsArticle.aspx?type=entertainmentNews&storyID=2007-11-14T183959Z_01_N14187018_RTRIDST_0_ENTERTAINMENT-KISS-COL.XML) the original interview that's sparked off the blog frenzy.

This really makes me wonder... why if someone who has millions of dollars behind them and could logically make an internet site full of streaming videos ect ect to fans , not move on it ? Why play the old dinosaur act and proclaim the net is evil and costing people money ? Why float the bullshit excuse about doing a new album, well people are downloading so fuck em ?!

Its more pathetic when you realize that this is a guy who brags he had more merchindising that ranks up there with Disney and Lucas. Then bristles at new technology and the fact bands like Radiohead and NIN are moving that way.

I'm no huge fan of KISS. I enjoy a few songs. But I could see a major fans response in that letter and understand the anger.

[pariah-1972]

It seems he is very insecure about himself and needs to brag about how great he is all the time just to keep reminding himself.

[ACK!]

I never understood why it took until 2006 to see KISSology Volume I. KISS has been very prominent in bootleg VHS and DVD home videos at record shows and KISS conventions over the years. Sometimes you'd see an entire KISS section, with many pro-shot shows and collections of TV clips on VHS selling for $20 apiece - and this was back in the nineties!

Gene should have put these out long ago. They official versions have sold well, but I don't get why it took until last year for them to start doing them.

Gene is indeed a rock dinosaur and while he focuses a lot of energy on his marketing ventures, TV and book imprints, etc, he ignored the KISS home video cash cow for far too many years. And the fact that Volume II is so slice-and-dice means that fans will need the bootlegs for complete shows.

KISSology II could have rendered some of the bootlegs obsolete, but didn't and while I enjoyed it for what was there, it's still a missed opportunity.

If I was even one of Gene's lackeys (like Tommy Thayer), I would have asked him "why aren't you releasing classic concerts on video" so much over the last decade I'd probably get fired.