New KISS Stage Set Up For "Monster World Tour 2013"

www.KISSopolis.com

Looks like KISS will bring a new stage set up on the road with them when they hit Europe, Canada, and America this year on the "Monster World Tour 2013".

Eric Singer's drum tech Paul Bassett has mentioned on his Facebook page that KISS has a new KISS stage set up for the upcoming legs of their 'Monster' tour.

Paul Bassett: "New KISS stage set is over-the-top...definitely gonna be a "Monster" tour!!!"

Photos to come. Story developing...

KISS Add U.S. Dates To 2013 Summer Run

www.ultimateclassicrock.com | Photo: Mary Ouellette

Kiss recently revealed that they will spend much of July touring Canada and now, they’ve added a few U.S. stops to the trek as well, beefing up their North America tour.

In continued support of their latest disc ‘Monster,’ Kiss will expand the tour deeper into August with four new stops. The concert additions include Gilford, N.H. on Aug. 7 at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion, Verona, N.Y. on Aug. 8 at the Turning Stone Casino, Simpsonville, S.C. on Aug. 13 at the Charter Amphitheatre and Orlando, Fla. on Aug. 16 at the Amway Arena.

Routing for these new shows leave Kiss with a day or two off leading up to some dates and quite a distance to cover, so it seems only logical that they may eventually add a few more stops in between. But for now, the newly confirmed dates are listed below.

Tickets for the new dates go on sale to the general public on Friday, May 3. Kiss will get everything started in Europe when they kick off their tour on June 1 in Stockholm, Sweden.

Kiss 2013 U.S. Tour Dates:

8/7 — Gilford, N.H. – Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion
8/9 — Verona, N.Y. – Turning Stone Casino
8/13 — Simpsonville, S.C. – Charter Amphitheatre
8/16 — Orlando, Fla. – Amway Arena

John Corabi, Chuck Garric & Bruce Kulick In Pamplona, Spain

www.kulick.net

John Corabi, Chuck Garric and his band Beasto Blanco onstage with former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick for some songs at the Kiss Army Spain event in Pamplona, Spain on April 27th. Great show!

KISS Kruise III Referral Program

www.thekisskruise.com

You can earn money for referring your friends who have never attended a Sixthman event to The KISS Kruise III whether you are sailing with us or not!

For Cruisers: For each new cabin you refer to The KISS Kruise III, you will earn $100 credit to your onboard spending account. Referrers will see a $100 credit on their onboard spending account by the third day of the cruise.

For Non-Cruisers: For each new cabin you refer to The KISS Kruise III, you will earn $50 cash! Referrers will be sent a check after the cruise has returned to ensure the referred passenger sailed.

Policy Details:
Referrals will be reconciled 3 weeks prior to sailing, and will appear on the referrer’s confirmation. Please contact Sixthman PRIOR TO sailing if your referral does not appear on your confirmation.

All guests in the referred cabin must be new to any Sixthman event, and the referral must be requested at the time of booking or registering for any waitlist.

The guest booking the new cabin must put your Sixthman Username in the REFERRAL blank when placing their reservation. Referrals are not retroactive, and cannot be added after the reservation has been made. Referrals apply to full cabins only; they do not apply to individual guests within a cabin, during the pre-sale period, or after the final payment date. When a referred cabin is booked, an email is sent to the referrer listing the lead passenger's name and email address.

Sign up for a Sixthman Username and start referring today: https://www.sixthman.net/account

"God Of Thunder" Guitar Lesson By John Tate

www.youtube.com

John Tate of AceFrehleyLesPaul.com has posted a video guitar lesson for KISS' "God Of Thunder." In the lesson, Tate demonstrates the song's main rhythm guitar parts and solo, in addition to discussing Frehley's tone and technique and the tempo variation between the original studio version and "Alive II" version.

Three Sides Of The Coin Podcast - Are Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley The Visionaries In KISS?

www.yotube.com

In episode #21 we ask the question... are Gene Simmons & Paul Stanley the visionaries in KISS? Were Ace Frehley & Peter Criss hired musicians?

Eric Singer At Swiss Watch Show

Photos: Watchuseek.com

Here's Eric at Switzeland's Baselworld watch show with representatives from the Grönefeld booth!

KISS Adds New York Concert Date

 www.KISSOnline.com

KISS will bring their 2013 MONSTER World Tour to the Turning Stone Casino in Verona, NY on August 9th.

A KISS Army members-only presale will take place tomorrow, April 30. Regular general public tickets will go on sale Friday, May 3.

Gene Simmons And KISS: Channeling One’s Inner Superhero

www.hoodedutilitarian.com | Russ Maheras

The index to the Comics and Music roundtable is here.

In 1958, an estranged Hungarian Jew and Holocaust survivor named Flóra “Florence” Klein brought her eight-year-old son, Chaim Witz, to New York City from Israel to seek out a new and better life. Chaim Witz’s name was soon Americanized to Gene Klein, and would eventually become the infinitely more famous double-alter ego Gene Simmons.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves.

After a year in an Orthodox Jewish school, the young Klein made his transition to America complete by entering the New York City public school system. Unable to speak or write English at first, Klein quickly turned to the new and fascinating world of American popular culture to learn his adopted language. While other kids were outside playing baseball or kick-the-can, Klein immersed himself in almost all of the mass entertainment arts: movies, television, science fiction, cartoons, pulps, and especially comic books. Reflecting later about those early years, he said once he saw Superman and Batman, “he was hooked.”

Then, in 1964, at the age of 14, he saw The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show, and a new world opened up for him: pop music. As he said decades later in his book Kiss and Make-Up, “My first thoughts about pop music were born that night, and they were simple thoughts: If I go and start a band, maybe the girls will scream for me.”

Klein’s first band was Lynx, announced incorrectly as The Missing Links – the name which ended up sticking – and it consisted of Klein, Danny Haber and Seth Dogramajian. Like Klein, both band-mates were obsessed with comic books. Klein elaborated about their four-color passion: “Seth and I used to publish amateur fanzines about comic books and science fiction. We would write articles, review movies, and talk about characters from television shows. His fanzine was called Exile; mine was called Cosmos. But after the Beatles, it became clear to us that, as much as we loved science fiction, it wasn’t going to get us where we wanted to go with the girls.”

Read more HERE: http://bit.ly/14KzMGH

Win A Cabin On KISS Kruise III At Indy KISS Expo

 www.KISSOnline.com

We are excited to announce that one lucky fan attending the Indianapolis KISS Fan Expo Weekend will win a one balcony cabin for two on The KISS Kruise III sailing Oct 28 – Nov 1, 2013! A huge thank-you to both Sixthman and KISS for sponsoring this incredible giveaway!

To celebrate the 15th Anniversary of the Indianapolis KISS Expo, we will be giving away many great KISS prizes at each event throughout the weekend of May 11 & 12. Everyone who attends these events with a paid ticket is automatically entered into our raffles - FREE!

Visit http://www.kissarmywarehouse.com/ for more info on the INDY KISS FAN EXPO

Grand Prize info:

Saturday's INDY Kick off event featuring Gene Simmons - Grand Prize will be a Gene Simmons Axe Bass autographed by Gene!

Saturday night's KISS Expo featuring Bruce and Bob Kulick - Grand Prize will be an ESP Electric Guitar played and signed by Bruce Kulick!

Sunday's KISS Expo featuring Eric Singer - Grand Prize will be an Eric Singer played and signed drum head!

The three winners of the above Grand Prizes will be entered into Sunday's Ultimate Prize drawing for one (1) balcony cabin for two (2) on The KISS Kruise III sailing Oct 28 – Nov 1, 2013!

Visit http://www.kissarmywarehouse.com/ for more info on the INDY KISS FAN EXPO

Visit www.TheKISSKruise.com for more info on KISS Kruise III.

As always, the Indianapolis KISS Fan Expo is run by the fans, for the fans.

Latest KISS Magazine Cover: "Drum Scene"

Source: KISSNews.de

KISS drummer Eric Singer is featured on the cover of the Australian magazine "Drum Scene". Available on eBay.

Anthony Esposito From Ace Frehley's Band Selling Stage Gear

 www.KISSopolis.com

Bass player Anthony Esposito is selling off some gear he used on stage in Ace Frehley's band..
Anthony writes KISSopolis:

"I'm selling my blue plexi 8 x 10 cabinets I used onstage with Ace (pictured above). I have six of them and would like to get $1500 each. They come with padded soft cases."

Serious buyers can message KISSopolis on Facebook for more details.

Promo For "KISS Kids" Comic

 Scan Source: KISSNews.de

Here's a promo comic strip for the new "KISS Kids" comics that are due out this fall from IDW Publishing.

The Real Tasting Notes - KISS Zin Fire

www.wineandroll.co.uk

KISS Zin Fire, California USA, Zinfandel 2011

KISS is a very strong brand in the rock business, so it was just a question of time before they came out with a beverage among the other KISS-related items. What can you expect from this wine? The same excitement and intensity that you get with a KISS live show. So, what is under the make up?

God Gave Rock n' Roll to you and KISS gave you this wine!

Oh yeah, just pop the cork and you can start to rock n' roll all nite and party every day. This wine is horny and liqueurous, easily approachable like a rock n' roll groupie. No need to analyse, no need to understand. It's just there when you need it to fullfill your needs and satisfies your desire. This wine is a bitch but we like it and want more...

Are we still talking 'bout the wine? Yes, we are, my friend. This wine is made from Zinfandel grape and perfectly captures the intensity of the KISS' live shows with all the lights and fireworks. 1975 was the year when the Zinfandel was harvested in California for the first time, the same year when the legendary Alive live album came out, which later turned to be the breakthrough for the KISS. Obviously this is just a coincidence, but explains why they come together as the hottest band and the hottest drink.

The taste is like a proper fruit explosion, topped up with sweet spices and a pleasant finish. Its has a slight residual sugar, but that makes it more rounded and easy drinking one. I don't think you could ask for more. Maybe for an other bottle 'cause one won't be enough!

This wine is pure rock n'roll. When you drink it you don't worry about the future, forget about the past and only live for the moment. Man, this wine is so good, you want to lick it up... The first drinking choice for millions of KISS fans. Now it's time to make a confession, are you one of them?

KISSopolis On The World Wide Web

 www.KISSopolis.com

There are three ways you can follow KISSopolis on the net for YOUR daily dose of up-to-date KISS news:

Website: www.KISSopolis.com

Twitter: www.twitter.com/KISSopolis

Facebook: www.facebook.com/KISSopolis
The Center Of All Things KISS - Welcome To 'KISSopolis'

KISS Memorabilia Featured In Mexican Hair Salon

www.KISSopolis.com

Estetica Henrys hair salon located in Mexico Rock City features KISS and Queen memorabilia on the walls of the shop. KISS really is everywhere!

Thanks to Omar Singer Sixx for sending KISSopolis this photo!

A Rare Glimpse Inside The Famous KISS Warehouse

Photo Credit: Frantastic III

Here's a cool photo of a rare look inside the famous KISS warehouse posted by Paul Stanley's guitar technician Frantastic III. KISS' backline crew were busy today prepping for the upcoming European leg of the KISS "Monster World Tour 2013".

KISS Costumes Getting Prepped For European Tour

Photo Credit: Paul Bassett

Here's a photo of some of the KISS stage worn costumes being prepped for the forthcoming European leg of the KISS "Monster World Tour 2013".

KISS Prepping Gear For A "Monster" European Tour

Photo Credit: Sir Paul Bassett

KISS drum tech Paul Bassett and the rest of the bands amazing backline crew are prepping the gear today for KISS' "Monster" European tour which kicks off on June 1st in Stockholm, Sweden. 
 
KISS Monster World Tour 2013 - European Tour Dates:

June 1 - Stockholm, Sweden
June 3 - Helsinki, Finland
June 6 - Solvesborg, Sweden
June 8 - Stavanger, Norway
June 11 - Copenhagen, Denmark
June 12 - Berlin, Germany
June 14 - Prague, Czech Republic
June 15 - Vienna, Austria
June 17 - Udine, Italy
June 18 - Milan, Italy
June 20 - Zurich, Switzerland
June 22 - Clisson, France

Phil Naro Talks About Working With Peter Criss

www.youtube.com

In this special hit & run episode Mitch Lafon chats with Phil Naro about his work with Peter Criss. Phil also donates a pair Peter Criss' drumsticks to the World with Heroes, 40th Anniversary KISS tribute project.

www.pledgemusic.com/projects/kiss40thtribute

Gene Simmons: I Want My Kids Outta My House

www.tmz.com

Who wants to be the children of Gene Simmons? The answer is absolutely everyone, because when Gene gets sick of his kids freeloading at home, he gets them out by buying them their own crib.

Gene's wife Shannon has been house hunting -- checking out this nice $2 million fixer-upper in Sherman Oaks (below) Sunday.

Apparently the digs aren't suitable for 24-year-old Nick and 20-year-old Sophie ... so the search continues.

BTW, as for why the 3,800-sq.-ft. house wasn't right ... the yard just wasn't big enough for their dogs.

See video HERE: http://tmz.me/1631wG7

You Too Can Play With Gene Simmons' Balls

www.vegastripping.com

My friend and fellow KISS fan J.S.L went to Vegas a few weeks ago, theoretically for a family getaway, but really just to go play KISS Mini Golf. Nothing could stop him from filing this report with us. Take it away J!

Took my family to Vegas just to play mini golf?


Yup.


But not just any mini golf, KISS mini golf! Located across the street from the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, KISS Mini Golf by Monster is an 18 hole glow in the dark mini golf course and it rocks... literally.


Me and my crew arrived at opening time 10am and were greeted on the red carpet by an enthusiastic employee who asked "Are you ready to rock"? We said yes, because we were.


When you first walk in you are instantly transported to the land of KISS, which for me was like returning to my childhood complete with sound track provided by the 'all-KISS-all-the=time-DJ' perched in a custom KISS DJ booth. The place is bursting at the seams with KISS memorabilia, everything for the casual or diehard fan.


Oh and there is also mini golf. The golf game play itself is extremely basic with no moving parts and very little difficulty. That being said... who cares! The DJ keeps things moving with music (some expected but also plenty of obscure tracks) trivia contests and challenges (best golf club air guitar etc) and the vibe is just so rocking that we smiled for 90 minutes straight. The props are amazing including a life size stage with animatronic KISS, a giant Paul Stanley boot and of course the 18th hole Gene Simmons giant face challenge - hit it straight up the tongue for a hole in one!


If you feel like leaving a note to future rockers, you are in luck because the bathrooms come complete with pens for writing on the walls! And of course what would any Vegas spot be without a wedding chapel where in this case you can be married by a mini Gene Simmons (okay not politically correct but true in any case).

The true danger here is the gift shop. You can drop a paycheck in the blink of an eye with t-shirts, coffee mugs, shot glasses, air freshener, costumes, jackets, candy, all KISS branded. My head was swimming by the end but there was one last essential activity - putting on Gene Simmons' Destroyer boots for a $5 photo opportunity.


If you, like me, are a member of the KISS Army this place is the greatest thing ever. However if you are a casual KISS fan, or just someone looking for something non-gambling related to do then this place is super fun, family friendly and relatively inexpensive by Vegas standards. The best endorsement ever... I will go back!


KISS Mini Golf by Monster rocks! Shout it out loud.

Kiss Mini Golf FIVE TONGUES!


Rated 5 tongues (out of 5)

KISS Coming To The Charter Amphitheatre

 www.simpsonville.patch.com

Legendary rock band will hit Simpsonville this summer as part of its 2013 Monster Tour.

Blood, fire, and pyrotechnics will blast the Charter Amphitheatre at Heritage Park in Simpsonville later this summer when the legendary rock band, KISS, brings its 2013 Monster Tour to town, it was announced Friday.

Original members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, along with long-time members Eric Singer (drums) and Tommy Thayer (guitar/vocals), will hit the stage on August 13 at 7:30 p.m.

Tickets go on sale May 3 at 10 a.m. at www.ticketmaster.com, all Ticketmaster outlets, charge-by-phone at 1-800-745-3000, or at the Charter Amphitheatre ticket office from 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

The concert is in support of the band's 20th studio album, "Monster," set to be released in October. The 12-song (plus bonus track), straight-ahead rock 'n' roll album, features collaborations from all four members.

Promoters said the Simpsonville concert will be the only Carolinas' date for the band which, over the course of its storied career, has racked up 100 million in world-wide sales.

Happy Birthday Ace Frehley

www.KISSopolis.com

Happy Birthday to original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley!

We hope you have a great day!

KISS Kruise III Welcomes Night Ranger

www.KISSOnline.com

The KISS KRUISE III is pleased to announce additional bands that will join the Kruise entertainment lineup.

With over 30 years in the business, and more than 17 million albums sold worldwide, NIGHT RANGER proves they can still rock!

Kruise alumni Leogun and Big Rock Show have also been added to the roster. Both bands have rocked previous KISS Kruises, and we welcome them back again for KKIII!

KISS Adds South Carolina Concert Date

 www.KISSOnline.com

KISS will bring their 2013 MONSTER World Tour to the Charter Amphitheater in Simpsonville, South Carolina on August 13th.

A KISS Army members-only presale will take place on Friday, May 3.

Regular general public tickets will go on sale Friday, May 3 at 12pm EST.

Rolling Stone Adds KISS To '10 Bands Who Should Enter The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame In 2014' List

 www.rollingstone.com

3. KISS

Kiss have repeatedly called the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame a "sham," but it's hard to imagine they wouldn't show up if they were inducted. This isn't exactly a band that shies away from the spotlight. They might even agree to reunite with Ace Frehley and Peter Criss for the occasion. Kiss did make the ballot a few years ago, but they obviously didn't make it in. Alice Cooper had to wait until 2011, so maybe Kiss are just a few years away. If they do ever get in, expect a pretty spectacular performance.

See entire list HERE: http://rol.st/Y83XF6

KISS Adds New Hampshire Concert Date

www.KISSOnline.com

KISS will bring their 2013 MONSTER World Tour to the Meadowbrook Amphitheater in Gilford, New Hampshire on August 7th.

A KISS Army members-only presale will take place on Monday, April 29 at 10am EST.

Regular general public tickets will go on sale Friday, May 3 at 12pm EST.

Top 30 Alternative KISS Klassics

www.KISSOnline.com

 
Official KISS Album and Tour Magazine Article from 2012

After the myriad KISS compilation albums, concert staples and international chart-topping favorites, there still exists a staggering array of material—some of it forgotten, dismissed, undervalued or just plain ignored. And while any list of any kind will always be subjective, we two card-carrying KISS ARMY members have picked our own dream lineup of KISS songs that some may call filler, but we think are absolutely killer…

“Love Theme from KISS” (KISS, 1974): This actually started off as a different song with vocals called “Acrobat,” which was a staple of the band’s early live shows. But when the time came to record it, producers Kenny Kerner and Richie Wise suggested they rework as an instrumental and retitle it. Despite it not being a ballad—or actually a love song—“Love Theme from…” was a popular moniker at the time, and they though they could capitalize on that trend. In the end, they wound up with one of their more unusual songs, which got lost on an iconic debut album filled with KISS favorites.
—K.M.S.

“Comin’ Home” (Hotter Than Hell, 1974): A rarity in the KISS canon, this is one of the few songs co-written by Paul Stanley and Ace Frehley. “Comin’ Home” was also one of the first tunes that wasn’t part of their earlier demo material, and is a testimony to the life on the road they had just started out on.
—K.M.S.

“Goin’ Blind” (Hotter Than Hell, 1974): Gene Simmons wrote “Goin’ Blind” with his friend and former Wicked Lester bandmate Stephen Coronel in 1970, but it first appeared as a KISS track here. The song marked a departure for the band, and was the closest thing to a ballad on KISS album up to that point. Despite being one of the strongest songs on Hotter Than Hell, “Goin’ Blind” never made it into the band’s ’70s live set list, so for many years—until Unplugged—it remained somewhat forgotten.
—K.M.S.

“Strange Ways” (Hotter Than Hell, 1974): Frehley wrote it, Peter Criss sang it and it just might be the best damn song on Hotter Than Hell. The production of that classic platter is muddy and distant, marring some of the material, but that works in the lumbering “Strange Ways’ ” favor. Heavy, dark, with a purring Criss vocal and a blistering one-take solo that stands among Frehley’s best.
—C.A.

“Getaway” (Dressed to Kill, 1975): Before Frehley started singing the songs he wrote, either Simmons or Criss would do the vocals. Frehley’s best-known tunes from the early days were “Cold Gin” and “Parasite,” but there was also this little gem, featuring Criss on vocals. Fast, raw and fun.
—K.M.S.

“Sweet Pain” (Destroyer, 1976): Simmons’ ode to S&M is a bit of a forgotten gem on this classic album—so much so that it’s the only Destroyer track that has never been performed live. On much of the record, the band experimented with different recording techniques, like children’s choirs and orchestra; “Sweet Pain” is no different, but here, adding female background vocalists to the mix gives the song an almost R&B/soul feel.
—K.M.S.

“Baby Driver” (Rock and Roll Over, 1976): After the success of Destroyer’s “Beth,” Criss started contributing a song per album that he had either written or co-written. At the time, Criss didn’t like the direction the band took “Baby Driver,” thinking it went too rock. Time has proven that orchestration correct, and it fits perfectly within the straight-up pummel of the rest of Rock and Roll Over.
—K.M.S.

“Almost Human” (Love Gun, 1977): It starts with a sneaky Simmons bassline, advances with a Criss bang of the gong and then it’s off, a dark, creepy bit of junk funk that lyrically lets Simmons flex his love of the macabre. The music surrounding it supports that theatrical darkness, with spastic Frehley guitar explosions, weird backwards looping and general nightmarish grit that out-Coopers Alice. One of Simmons’ greatest creations—and a favorite of special FX wizard Robert Hall, who even stole the name for his shop.
—C.A.

“Plaster Caster” (Love Gun, 1977): This was Simmons’ tribute to groupies, and in particular “Cynthia Plaster Caster,” who had an interesting hobby of making molds of her favorite rock stars’ members. Simmons has always had a knack for taking taboo lyric material and turning it into an up-tempo pop song that’s accessible to everyone.
—K.M.S.

“All American Man” (Alive II, 1978): The famous fourth studio-recorded side of Alive II is a masterpiece of trashy rock, leading with this thundering Stanley strut. “Six foot, hot look” indeed—this anthemic slap to the face is pure ’70s sex. We can only hope that Stanley drags this rough-and-tumble scrapper out of the trick bag at least one more time and fries it live…
—C.A.

“Charisma” (Dynasty, 1979): Dynasty was the first KISS album where Simmons took more of a back seat in the songwriting department, with only two songs making the final lineup. Thankfully, they were very strong tracks: “X-Ray Eyes” and “Charisma.” Remarkably, the latter has never been performed on tour, and the closest to a live performance it’s had was on Mexican television in 1982. “Charisma” did get played a little during the KISS Konvention shows of 1994, but for the most part, it remains one of the great unsung KISS gems.
—K.M.S.

“Dirty Livin’ ” (Dynasty, 1979): Criss’ confessional is another strong track in Dynasty’s collection of winners, with a strange choral arrangement, great drum work (played by Criss, as opposed to most of the platter, where Anton Fig filled in) and the perfect track for a filthy tomcat. Groovy, soulful and sexy.
—C.A.

“X-Ray Eyes” (Dynasty, 1979): Joining “Charisma,” this is the other great Simmons track on this fantastic turning-point platter. Gothic in its structure, this cinematic slice of doom-pop again mines Simmons’ love of pulp (is it referencing the goggles for sale in the back of comic books, or the 1963 Roger Corman horror flick?), and the sound of his bass propels it. A great, shiny yet evil rock tune.
—C.A.

“Shandi” (Unmasked, 1980): The band no doubt had high hopes for this single when it was released in 1980—but the backlash against them was starting to take hold in America, and “Shandi” only reached #40 on the charts. In places like Australia, the song was a massive hit, and it’s still played when they visit Down Under. KISS was splintering at the time, so much so that Stanley was the only member to actually appear on this track. Regardless of who played on it (or the fact that it’s a ballad), what you have here is one of the most finely crafted songs Stanley has ever written. There’s an underlying irony to the lyrics that matches the band’s history: The song talks about knowing a relationship is over and being together one last time before finally ending it. By the time the music video was lensed, Criss had already been asked to leave the group, but he was brought back one last time to appear in the video in a strange case of life imitating art.
—K.M.S.

“Two Sides of the Coin” (Unmasked, 1980): With the solo extrusions of all four members in 1978, Frehley emerged as a strong songwriter and singer. So much so that he became an almost equal contributor in both areas on the KISS recordings of 1979/1980, with songs like “Hard Times” and the single “Talk to Me,” and another such gem in the Frehley catalog is this song. This era was short-lived, though, with Frehley only contributing one more song on The Elder before departing the band in 1982.
—K.M.S.

“What Makes the World Go ’Round” (Unmasked, 1980): Like all of Unmasked, this song evidences Vinnie Poncia’s pop makeover, but hey, it’s a catchy, happy track that makes you want to lace up your roller skates, chew bubblegum and hold hands with your best girl. Time has been very kind to Unmasked, and this bright track is a highlight.
—C.A.

“I” (Music from “The Elder,” 1981): Simmons’ ode to self-worth and believing in oneself is the closing track on this much-maligned opus. The song was the second Elder single, but since the album had already flopped, “I” failed to make any waves with audiences. This is truly a shame, because on any other KISS album, it would have become on of their classic anthems.
—K.M.S.

“Odyssey” (Music from “The Elder,” 1981): Everything that’s wonderful about “Odyssey” is also everything that people hated about The Elder—that is, lush production, symphonic spine, epic imagery and a complete disregard for typical, commercial rock ’n’ roll. But my God, isn’t “Odyssey” a beautiful piece of work, with Stanley foreshadowing the deep, controlled operatic baritone that would emerge during his turn as the Phantom of the Opera? A magical, moving, emotional masterpiece of theatrical sonics.
—C.A.

“Nowhere to Run” (Killers, 1982): One of the stronger four new songs written for this best-of collection, “Nowhere to Run” was one of the Stanley-penned tracks that set the path for the band in the 1980s. The Killers songs tend to be footnotes in the KISS legacy, but “Nowhere to Run” is a diamond in those rough years.
—K.M.S.

“Keep Me Comin’ ” (Creatures of the Night, 1982): There isn’t a false move on Creatures of the Night, but along with the devastating “I Still Love You,” this offers some of the best Stanley work of the decade. It’s menacing, strutting, stripped-down Led Zeppelin-flavored rock ’n’ roll, with Stanley’s shriek and wicked guitar work playing against Eric Carr’s pummelling percussion. A really tough, no-bullshit bit of rock.
—C.A.

“Rock and Roll Hell” (Creatures of the Night, 1982): This, along with “War Machine,” was one of two Creatures songs that Simmons worked on with the up-and-coming songwriting team of Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance. Rumored to be inspired by the difficulty of working with Frehley in his final years with the band, “Rock and Roll Hell” served as a catharsis that paved the way for the new lineup without Frehley and Criss.
—K.M.S.

“Exciter” (Lick It Up, 1983): This leadoff track showed the world that KISS wasn’t finished with the heavy material they had developed for Creatures of the Night. Stanley’s vocals are like lightning, Vinnie Vincent’s guitars shred like machine guns and the whole track is like a pleasant murder by jackhammer. A great opening to a great album.
—K.M.S.

“Who Wants to Be Lonely?” (Asylum, 1985): This midrange-tempo single wasn’t a big song for KISS at the time, and tends to be forgotten today. What doesn’t help is the track being associated with a music video that…let’s just say their clothing taste was a little questionable in retrospect. Taken strictly on musical terms, though, “Who Wants to Be Lonely?” is one of the best songs the band put out in the 1980s.
—K.M.S.

“I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You” (Crazy Nights, 1987): Sometimes, Bruce Kulick’s co-writing contributions to the band during his tenure tend to be overlooked. “I’ll Fight Hell to Hold You,” originally written by Stanley and Adam Mitchell, was almost scrapped, but Kulick came in with a fresh take on the guitar riff, and it turned out to be one of Crazy Nights’ highlights.
—K.M.S.

“Betrayed” (Hot in the Shade, 1989): When Tommy Thayer joined KISS as the new Spaceman in 2001, he had already been part of the KISS family in one way or another since the late ’80s. He worked on a couple of Simmons’ songs for Shade, including “The Street Giveth and the Street Taketh Away” and this track, the beginning of Simmons’ renewed focus on the band (which would truly flourish on the next album, Revenge).
—K.M.S.

“Little Caesar” (Hot in the Shade, 1989): While prepping the Smashes, Thrashes & Hits best-of in 1988, the band got the idea of rerecording “Beth,” with Carr finally making his debut as a KISS vocalist. This led to Carr getting behind the mic again on this new song, written with Simmons. Sadly, with Carr’s passing in 1991, this ended up the only original track he ever sang on a KISS record.
—K.M.S.

“Heart of Chrome” (Revenge, 1992): Stanley penned this track with Vincent, who briefly returned to KISS in a songwriting capacity, also co-writing “Unholy” and “I Just Wanna.” On almost any other album from this era, “Heart of Chrome” would have likely been singled out as a major track, but that’s just a testament to how strong a disc Revenge is.
—K.M.S.

“Thou Shall Not” (Revenge, 1992): Simmons was firing on all cylinders when KISS recording this album, giving us classic tracks like “Unholy” and “Domino.” But there were other standouts, including “Spit” and this one. The religious right in America have always been a thorn in KISS’ side for the dumbest reasons over the years; “Thou Shall Not” does a great job of settling the score. Revenge, indeed.
—K.M.S.

“Childhood’s End” (Carnival of Souls, 1997): This was an original started by Thayer that was brought to Simmons, who finished writing it with Kulick. Named after the Arthur C. Clarke novel, it brings in a children’s choir à la “Great Expectations” so many years earlier, but with a completely different effect. Simmons has said that the song isn’t about any person in particular, but it still feels very personal.
—K.M.S.

“I Will Be There” (Carnival of Souls, 1997): Carnival tends to be overlooked, except by die-hard KISS fans; the basic complaint is that it strays too far from the KISS sound in favor of a more “grungy” affect. The best corrective to that opinion is to give this beautiful Stanley ballad a listen. This time, the lyrics aren’t about a woman, but his dedication to his children.
—K.M.S.

“Journey of 1000 Years” (Psycho Circus, 1998): Circus’ closing track is a Simmons song that’s nothing less than epic. Musically, it takes some of its cues from the title tune, allowing the album to come full circle. The sweeping orchestral soundscape is hypnotic, and this just might be KISS’ most ambitious track since The Elder.
—K.M.S.

“All for the Glory” (Sonic Boom, 2009): This song not only marked Eric Singer’s debut as a vocalist, but is a highlight on an instant-classic album. It demonstrates everything the band does best, a hard-thumping track about band unity, working hard and being the best.
—K.M.S.

"Wall of Sound" (MONSTER, 2012): “And we all bow down…To the wall of sound…” That we do, Gene and this is one of the finest Simmons songs in the band’s 40 year history. A menacing stomp echoing Gene’s dragon boot stage stalk echoes the sleazy “Larger Than Life” from the studio side of KISS ALIVE II but lyrically and again, sonically, this is on a different level, with Tommy once more proving his metal mettle with violent string stabs and Paul bringing real raunch to his rhythm guitar. CA
—K.M.S.

"Long Way Down" (MONSTER, 2012): Big percussion, big, open riffs and an absolutely soaring, searing vocal from Paul make this one not only a classic KISS tune, but a classic of heavy rock full stop, one laced with an almost southern rock feel. Tommy’s guitar work once more blazes through with fiery confidence while Eric and Gene keep the pulse relentless and primal. CA
-K.M.S.

"All for the Love of Rock and Roll: (MONSTER, 2012): Eric finds his voice anew with this head bopping, shiny Paul penned pop rock tune, one that sounds like it was channeled directly from Paul’s 1978 solo album (think “It’s Alright”) with more than a dash of “Mr. Speed”. An uplifting, soulful and groovy arena rock crowd pleaser with an almost R&B feel. CA
-K.M.S.

KELLY MICHAEL STEWART and CHRIS ALEXANDER

Helsinki KISS Expo & Hard Rock Hell Promo

www.youtube.com

Here's a promo for the Helsinki KISS Expo & Hard Rock Hell event being held at Restaurant Pressa, Antinkatu 2, in Helsinki, Finland on Monday, June 3, 2013.

Bruce Kulick To Guest On 'The Metal Factory Radio Show'

 www.loudcity.com

The one and only Bruce Kulick (former guitar player of KISS) will be a guest on The Metal Factory Radio Show with Scotty the Rooster on Tuesday, May 7th at 9 pm eastern.

Listen in as Scotty and Bruce chat about Bruce's entire career including his time in KISS, UNION, the solo work and his work with John Corabi.

Tune in here: www.loudcity.com/stations/insanerealmradio

Kulick / Corabi European Tour Dates

www.kulick.net

A reminder about the Kulick / Corabi European tour dates, which are fast approaching. Chuck Garric's band, Beasto Blanco, will also be joining us. Unfortunately it is a short tour, and these are ALL the dates.

04/27/13 - Pamplona, Spain - Casa de Cultura de Burlada
04/28/13 - Chatel-Saint-Denis, Switzerland - Diesel Club
05/01/13 - Wroclaw, Poland - Alibi
05/03/13 - Stavanger, Norway - Studentersamfunnet Folken
05/04/13 - Jevnaker Glasheim, Norway - Untouchables Hard Rock Club

Bruce Kulick Meets Jeff Beck In Las Vegas

www.kulick.net

New Message up about Bruce Kulick's weekend in Vegas, "which included two Bucket List events: meeting Jeff Beck, and seeing Blue Man Group." 

See the message HERE.

The Classic KISS Song From The Point Of View Of 'Beth'

www.brainstorm9.com.br 

What if your favorite song was a movie? A short film of course, but staging "real" history without melody and guitar distortion.

Bob Winter, the creative director of Crispin Porter + Bogusky, began a series of videos, wondering who inspired the composition in certain music scenes and events.

For starters, "Beth", one of the greatest classics of the best band in the world, KISS. Produced by Anonymous Content, this short film enacts the letter from the point of view of Beth. In the studio, Peter Criss gets the call asking what time he will return home.

Thanks to our friend Jacques Maciel for sending this to KISSopolis.

Limited Cabins Remain For KISS Kruise III

 www.KISSOnline.com

Only a limited number of cabins remain for the upcoming KISS Kruise III.

KISS and Sixthman together can’t be stopped. The inaugural KISS Kruise voyage united the KISS Navy to sail across the open seas. The second adventure proved the strength of the KISS Navy once again, who rocked the boat with such intensity that the sea begged for mercy! It’s time to reunite the KISS Navy for The KISS Kruise III, as we navigate towards the shores of adventure!

This kruise is so hot, it’s even Hot in the Shade! KISS Navy owns Halloween, and this year it’s no different. The Norwegian Pearl is set to host the best Hallows’ Eve celebration in the world. We’re sailing from October 28th – November 1st, so grab your face paint, your krazy costumes, your sunscreen and join us on board where we rock n roll all night and party everyday!

KISS NAVY, WE WANT YOU!

Cruise Itinerary (Subject to change)

Monday, October 28, 2013 - Depart Miami, FL (approx 4:00 PM ET)
Tuesday, October 29 - Key West, Florida 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday, October 30 - Day At Sea
Thursday, October 31 - Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Friday, November 1 - Arrive Miami, FL (approx 8:00 AM ET)

For more details, visit the KISS KRUISE III website at www.thekisskruise.com!

Peter Criss Alive/World Wide Reunion Tour Costume On eBay

www.ebay.com

Description: This is one of Peter Criss' used/stage worn jumpsuits from the 96/97 tour. The band auctioned off thousands of items in 2000. This is in excellent condition and is weighs several pounds. High quality work and a very impressive piece.

See the auction HERE: http://bit.ly/15Iv4Zn

Three Sides Of The Coin Podcast - KISS In 10 Years?

Three Sides Of The Coin Podcast

In episode #20 we discuss KISS In 10 years? Where do you see them? We also talk about the recently announced Wicked Lester reunion and what we think of a Frehley's Comet reunion.Finally we comment on the exciting lineup announced for the 2013 Indianapolis KISS Expo.

Dog & Beth Chapman At Gene Simmons' Mansion In Beverly Hills

 Photo Credit: www.GeneSimmons.com

Here's a photo of husband and wife bounty hunter's Dog and Beth Chapman sitting in the now (getting) famous KISS Hello Kitty chair at Gene's house in Beverly Hills. Check out their new show "Dog and Beth: On the Hunt" on CMT.

Related News:  

• Rob Zombie At Gene Simmons' Mansion In Beverly Hills
• Heather Locklear At Gene Simmons' Mansion in Beverly Hills

Jann Wenner Asked Why KISS Is Not In Rock Hall Of Fame

www.KISSOnline.com | Russell Dannecker 

The President of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Jann Wenner finally explains why KISS is not in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.

Russell Dannecker:

"We spotted the President of The Rock n Roll Hall Of Fame Jann Wenner walking back to his Hotel after the Induction Ceremony last Thursday in LA. So I went up to him and asked him why KISS is not inducted yet."

As you can see his reply says it all!

Paul Stanley & Gene Simmons To Open Third Rock & Brews

www.KISSonline.com

Join Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons on Wednesday, May 8th for the Grand Opening of Rock & Brews Pacific Coast Highway.

Visit www.torranceeducationfoundation.org/rock/ to buy tickets for the opening.

Rock & Brews Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) Marks Second Los Angeles Area Location And Continues Expansion of the Rock & Brews Brand

Today, rock icons Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, co-founders of KISS announced plans to open a new Rock & Brews™ restaurant on May 8th, 2013.

The new Rock & Brews is located on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) in Torrance, Calif., and is the newest in the Los Angeles area and the third to open in just over a year, demonstrating Rock & Brews plans for a worldwide rapid expansion of the brand. Rock & Brews PCH joins the brand’s growing roster that includes its flagship location in El Segundo, Calif., which opened in April of 2012, and the first international location in Los Cabos, Mexico, which opened in March 2013.

“We continue to expand Rock & Brews worldwide with a commitment to building a family-friendly atmosphere that serves exceptional food along with a broad selection of craft beers,” said Stanley. “We offer incredible value in a fun, energized rock-themed environment.”

Four additional Rock & Brews restaurants are currently in development: Rock & Brews LAX (CA) will open this summer (in the Delta Airlines Terminal); Rock & Brews Maui (HI) will open this fall; Rock & Brews Agoura (CA) will also open this fall; and, Rock & Brews Kansas City (MO) is slated to open early next year.

"Rock & Brews is on fire around the globe,” said Simmons. “People love bringing their families all day long and through dinner, and enjoy the rockin’ social scene later in the evening.”

Stanley and Simmons, along with their co-founding partners, restaurateur Michael Zislis and concert industry veterans Dave and Dell Furano, plan to open as many as 100 Rock & Brews restaurants in the next five years.

The new Rock & Brews PCH welcomes local partner Jon Mesko, who will own and operate the Torrance location. The restaurant will feature the brand’s signature casual American cuisine, a full bar including a broad selection of premium wines and craft beers, and there will be a 21-and-over lounge area with private tables, offering self-service beer taps, monitored through new iPad software that tracks consumption and also provides detailed information about other draft and bottled beers available at the restaurant.

Join Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons on Wednesday, May 8th for the Grand Opening of Rock & Brews Pacific Coast Highway.

Visit www.torranceeducationfoundation.org/rock/ to buy tickets for the opening.

Rob Zombie At Gene Simmons' Mansion In Beverly Hills

 Photo Credit: www.GeneSimmons.com

Check out rocker/film producer Rob Zombie sitting in Gene Simmons' KISS Hello Kitty chair at his home Beverly Hills. Rob was visiting Gene to discuss a few TV and movie projects.

Dave Grohl & Gene Simmons At A Charity Event

Source: www.genesimmons.com

Here's a photo of Foo Fighters lead man Dave Grohl with legendary KISS bassist Gene Simmons at a recent charity event.

Gene Simmons, Shannon Tweed & Friends At Charity Event

Source: www.genesimmons.com

Here's Gene Simmons and his wife Shannon Tweed along with actor Rob Lowe, and Entertainment Tonight host Nancy O'Dell. Gene writes:

"BEST BUDDIES does wonderful work for mentally challenged young people. And it's good for you too. Founded by Anthony Shriver.

There was a bowling event held today, and we were happy to attend. Here are Rob Lowe, myself, Nancy O'Dell, and most beautiful girl in the world, my wife Shannon Tweed Simmons."

Former KISS Co-Producer Says Peter Criss & Ace Frehley Were ‘Hired Hands’

www.ultimateclassicrock.com | Sterling Whitaker

Former Kiss drummer Peter Criss recently took his old band’s current lineup to task in an interview, dismissing the replacement members as hired guns doing a job. But Richie Wise, who co-produced the first two Kiss albums, says as far as he’s concerned, Criss and guitarist Ace Frehley themselves were nothing more than employees whose purpose was to help Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley realize their vision for the band.

“There was never a doubt from moment one in Gene and Paul, in their minds, that they were going to do this, they were going to do it this way and they were going to be Kiss,” Wise tells Kiss FAQ. “Ace and Peter had no focus. They were hired hands as far as I was concerned. I knew they auditioned for the band — and the band was Gene and Paul, period.”

Wise says that during the time he worked with the band, it was always clear that Simmons and Stanley were the dominant forces not just in business, but musically. “Ace, I understood exactly what he was doing. He listened to [Jimmy] Page and [Eric] Clapton and all those guitarists that I listened to, so I understood him well,” he notes, adding, “Peter was, at best, a poppy adequate drummer. But he was solid; he really didn’t get in the way and laid down the proper fundamental beat.”

He lauds Simmons’ melodic bass playing and Stanley’s mic technique and rhythm playing, saying, “They had, right out of the box, good technique. They worked well together. I worked well with them . . . and I think it was very organic and real.”

But he doesn’t entirely discount Frehley and Criss’ contributions to Kiss. “Could those characters have been created with another drummer and guitar player? Yes, if you got another guitarist and drummer that bought into what Kiss was selling — the makeup, the stage show, the whole thing,” he states. “But those guys were perfect for it.”

Criss recently suggested that the current Kiss lineup — featuring guitarist Tommy Thayer in Frehley’s makeup and drummer Eric Singer in Criss’ old slot — is just a tribute to the original band. “Although Gene and Paul are the major members in the band, Eric and Tommy, to them, it’s a job,” he told Eddie Trunk (quote via Classic Rock magazine). “He’s playing Ace Frehley licks to a tee; Eric’s playing my drum licks to a tee. They’re still playing the same songs that we made famous.”

Mike McCready Hopes KISS Gets In Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame

Photo Credit: Mike McCready

Pearl Jam guitarist Mike McCready who performed with Heart during last week's 2013 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony was asked backstage about Pearl Jam's chances of getting in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in 2014. Mike answered:

"You know, you never want to place any bets on anything," he said. "I'm not a gambler, so I'm not going to try to put any odds on that. But I don't know. I hope so. But you never know. You never know what happens. It could take a while. I hope KISS gets in. I'm going to say that."

Tom Harper Discusses KISS On Decibel Geek Podcast

 dbgeekshow.blogspot.ca

No stories are more entertaining and thought provoking than war stories. The rock and roll equivalent to this is road stories. Our guest this week is a treasure trove of experience in the annals of rock history; especially KISSTORY as former KISS guitar tech Tom Harper joins us for a discussion that is a great look behind the scenes that most music lovers never get to see.

Tom is most commonly known among KISS fans as a guitar tech (Paul Stanley’s on the Dynasty tour) that was tasked with playing the bass track on the track Shandi from 1980’s Unmasked album. Before we get into what took place to lead Tom into replacing Gene Simmons on this poppy number, we go back to his roots.

Listen HERE: http://bit.ly/11zsnEs

Watchin' You Podcast - Episode #4 - Ace and Peter Celebration

 www.youtube.com

Jeff and Jeff are back to celebrate the contributions of Ace Frehley and Peter Criss in the formative years of KISS. With lots of photos and video, this is sure to bring you back to the 1970s or the 1990s - for those die hard fans of the original line up.

The KISS Room's Ace Frehley Birthday Bash Episode

the KISS Room

Join the KISS Room for their April episode, the Ace Frehley Birthday Bash. Matt Porter is joined by Chris Giordano, Mike Natalini, Ken Mills and more! Tune up your air guitar and crank up the KISS Room, your monthly KISS super special, streaming directly to you on Montco Radio!

Listen to the episode here: www.thekissroom.com

Tommy Thayer's All Star Salute To The Oregon Military

Photo: Tommy Thayer

Here's Tommy Thayer jamming onstage with Patrick Lamb and his band at the All Star Salute to the Oregon Military.

"I Was Made For Lovin' You" Covered By KISZ Tribute Band

www.youtube.com

KISZ is a tribute band from Bogota Colombia South America. We play KISS rock. We did this song because we wanted to show the KISS fans of the world our Colombian Folklore. This song is based in a Colombian tambora drum beat and is composed By Fernando De Narvaez Kisz.

KISStory Science Theatre Podcast: "Dressed To Kill"

KISStory Science Theatre Podcast 

 In their latest roundtable discussion, the KST boys take a peek into DTK's closet, and come out with a skeleton or two. A short, snappy podcast for a short snappy album.

Paul Stanley On The Cover Of "Lid" Magazine

Source: KISS News.de | Photo: Ross Halfin

Hello, I publish a fine art magazine called Lid and I wanted to let you know that the latest issue features a Paul Stanley cover with lots of previously unpublished photos of the band by Ross Halfin. This cover is limited to only 350 copies for collectors.

I thought this might be of interest to you and other Kiss fans. Have a look here: http://lidmagazine.net/shop.html

New Jersey KISS Store Open Today

njkissexpo.com

The New Jersey KISS STORE is back for 1 day only -- this Saturday, April 20, 2013 from 11am to 5pm.

Same Promoters and Same Venue as the NJ KISS EXPO.

The KISS Store will be selling official items spanning 1974 to 2013....Types of Items available for sale at the KISS Store....Magazines, Promo Items, Toys, T-Shirts, Hats, Books, Concert Items, Picks, Posters, Paper Items, Kiss Army Items, Foreign Items, official CDs, official Cassette Tapes, Records, Picture Discs, 45s, official DVDs, Signed Items, Out Of Print Items, Non Makeup Items, Original Lineup Items, newly released items, Tour Books, Cards, Cars, and THE OFFICIAL MONSTER COFFEE TABLE BOOK will be on sale.....1,000s of items will be available !!!

Have items you want to sell us? bring everything on over...we pay cash. Have items you want to trade for store shopping credit? Bring everything.

FREE ADMISSION TO EVERYONE...Adults FREE....Children FREE....Parking FREE as well.

Location:

NJ Convention and Exposition Center
at the Raritan Center
97 Sunfield Ave, Edison NJ 08837
*Located off Exit 10 on the New Jersey Turnpike

More info HERE: http://njkissexpo.com/

KISS Announce The UTGP 2013 Winners From Japan

 
www.KISSOnline.com

KISS announce the winners of the UTGP 2013 design contest. This clip was filmed during the Australian Tour.

The winning design selected by the band was created by Ryohei Murai (from Japan). We felt the design expressing the connection between the 4 members was COOL!

Also, check out the 3 other KISS designs in UNIQLO stores from April 22nd!

“UT Grand Prix” is a yearly t-shirt design competition sponsored by Uniqlo.

The products will be available worldwide from April 22nd.

Shirts will be sold in Japan, U.S., U.K., France, Russia, China, Korea, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Thailand,

Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia. *Availability in Russia beginning May 6th.