Tag: KISS
0 AXS TV Honors Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame Inductees with Memorial Day Marathon
AXS TV HONORS ROCK N’ ROLL HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES WITH A MEMORIAL DAY MARATHON ON MONDAY, MAY 26
The Day-Long Event Features Over 15 hours of Concert Specials From Nine Industry Icons Including Bruce Springsteen, KISS, The Rolling Stones, and More
LOS ANGELES – May 12, 2014 – Celebrate the past and present of the Rock N’ Roll Hall of Fame, as AXS TV–the premiere destination for live music—presents a colossal Memorial Day concert marathon on Monday, May 26. The unprecedented event features over 15 hours of iconic music from nine of the Hall of Fame’s most influential inductees.
The day kicks off at 1pE, with the MusiCares® Person of the Year 2013: Bruce Springsteen, as the industry’s best and brightest take on the Boss’ biggest hits. Jon Stewart hosts this unforgettable evening, boasting performances from Elton John, Patti Smith, Neil Young, Sting, and many more. The guest of honor closes out the evening with a raucous five-song set that concludes with the night’s performers joining together for an epic collaboration of “Glory Days.”
The marathon of music continues as rock mainstays The Rolling Stones strut onto the scene at 3:30pE, then “Rock and Roll All Nite” with KISS at 5:05pE. AC/DC delivers classic rock tracks at 7:10pE, followed by Led Zeppelin at 8:20pE, Fleetwood Mac at 10:35pE, “Good Vibrations” from the Beach Boys at 12:35aE, and fan-favorites Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers at 1:55aE. Ringo Starr and the Roundheads bring the evening to an end at 4:05aE, as the group performs with special guest Colin Hay.
The complete broadcast schedule is as follows:
1pE – MusiCares® Person of the Year 2013: Bruce Springsteen
3:30pE – The Rolling Stones – At The Max
5:05pE – KISS MONSTER WORLD TOUR: Live From Europe
7:10pE – AC/DC Live At River Plate
8:20pE – Led Zeppelin: Celebration Day
10:35pE – Fleetwood Mac, Live In Boston
12:35aE – The Beach Boys 50 – Live In Concert
1:55aE – Tom Petty – Live from Gatorville
4:05aE – Ringo Starr and the Roundheads with Special Guest Colin Hay
ABOUT AXS TV
Launched in July 2012 by visionary entrepreneur Mark Cuban, AXS TV is dedicated to providing the best in music programming and festivals, comedy performances, current events and mixed martial arts promotions. AXS TV is a partnership between Mark Cuban, AEG, Ryan Seacrest Media, Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and CBS. The network is available in the United States via AT&T U-verse, Charter, Comcast/Xfinity, DIRECTV, DISH, Suddenlink, Verizon FiOS, and other cable, satellite and telco providers. The network is also distributed in Canada and the Caribbean. For more information, visit the website, www.axs.tv; go to the Facebook page here and follow the company on Twitter, @axstv; on Instagram; Tumblr and YouTube.
3 Vie’s Verses – What KISS Should Play For Their 40th Anniversary Tour
As you have surely heard by now, KISS is going on tour this summer with Def Leppard. And while this is bound to be a nostalgic concert full of bombs, rock screams, and plenty of guitar solos, I find myself wondering once again what setlist will KISS trot out? Recently, the band has gone out of their way to belabor the fact that Ace and Peter were not the only guitarist and drummer the band had and that their legacy expands beyond the four original members. If Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley want to be true to that statement, this 40th anniversary tour is the perfect time for them to drive that point home.
Every time KISS goes on tour, they bring out a very similar, if not identical, setlist to the previous tour. Even when they release a new album, only one song from the album gets performed while the band is in America. Once they head overseas, they take a few more risks and play additional songs from the new record, but it never seems to happen in the states. Now they are celebrating 40 years as a band, without a record to promote. This is their prime opportunity to really tap into their catalog and dust off some hits that haven’t been played in years.
I suspect that the band will have between 80 and 90 minutes of stage time and I realize that there are some hits they have to play. A couple of years ago, KISS did bring back “Crazy, Crazy Nights,” and I thought that was a high point to their show. But why stop there? Why not really mix it up and play some tracks that people almost forgot existed. I get that deep cuts like “Almost Human” and “Sweet Pain” probably aren’t going to be played, but how about pulling out “Shandi” in the USA? What if they were to skip “I Was Made For Loving You” and decided that “Hard Luck Woman” was a better fit? I can’t speak for all fans, but I know that this KISS fan would be in all his glory. I know that “Rock And Roll All Nite” is getting performed. I am sure that “Love Gun,” “Lick It Up,” and “Firehouse” will be performed. And all of those songs are great. All I ask is that the band takes a chance and mixes in some other great songs from their catalog.
I would love to hear “I” off of Music From The Elder, or “Mr. Speed” from Rock And Roll Over. “Love ‘Em and Leave ‘Em,” or “Uh! All Night” would be a dream come true. Hell even “Outta This World,” or “Never Enough” would be welcomed treats at this point. I’ve been seeing this band live since the 90s and I know what they are capable of. During the period of time when the makeup was off, Kiss performed songs from their entire catalog. But once the makeup went back on, they stuck to the safe hits. Now, it’s time to celebrate 40 years of Kiss. They even have a (yet another) greatest hits album coming out that includes one song from each record they’ve ever recorded. Why not structure the setlist in a similar fashion? For longtime/diehard fans, it would be a spectacular experience. And there could still be plenty of hits to keep the casual fan satisfied.
I will be seeing the band this summer, and I truly hope that they will go out of their way to mix it up, but I won’t hold my breath waiting to see anything out of the ordinary. Perhaps KISS will surprise me this year, and that would be lovely, but I expect to get the same 15 or 16 hits they’ve played for the last decade. And for a band that has a history as deep and long as theirs, that’s a real shame. If I had a say (and boy, I wish I did) this would be my setlist for the 40th anniversary tour:
Love Gun
Never Enough
Cold Gin
Firehouse
I Just Wanna
I Love It Loud
Shandi
Outta This World
Uh! All Night
I Still Love You
Flaming Youth
Nothing To Lose
Black Diamond
Encore:
Detroit Rock City
Heaven’s On Fire
Rock And Roll All Nite
What about you? Are you tired of the same setlist? Do you wish that KISS would mix it up, or are you just happy that they are still touring? Drop a line in the comments and let us know your thoughts!
1 KISS & Def Leppard To Tour This Summer
One will pour some sugar on you, the other will lick it up.
Kiss and Def Leppard will team up this summer for a 42-city North American tour that will “deliver good news and excitement,” says Kiss guitarist Paul Stanley.
The tour begins June 23 in West Valley City, Utah, and wraps up Aug. 31 in Woodlands, Texas. Tickets go on sale starting Friday.
The groups announced the tour Monday at the House of Blues in Los Angeles.The press conference was streamed live via the Live Nation website.
Def Leppard singer Joe Elliott says he and Gene Simmons first discussed the idea of the two bands touring together when he and the Kiss bassist played some South American dates two years ago as part of a rock-and-roll all-stars tour. “It’s finally happened, which is fantastic,” Elliott says.
It’ll be the first time the two bands have shared a bill, though Stanley says, “We’ve run into each other at festivals. It just seemed to be a natural fit.” Stanley also noted that one of guitarist Phil Collen’s pre-Def Leppard bands, Girl, opened for Kiss in the U.K. during the early ’80s.
Kiss did a similar co-headlining tour with Motley Crue in 2012.
Kiss released its first album, Hotter Than Hell, 40 years ago, and the band will commemorate the anniversary with a slew of archival releases, including a 34-LP vinyl box set and a two-CD compilation called Kiss 40. The group will be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame April 10.
Def Leppard has been writing music for the group’s next album. “We all camped out at my house last month and wrote songs, which you will hear none of this summer,” Elliott says. Collen says he expects that album to come out in 2015.
Simmons says a dollar from each ticket sold on the tour will go to to the Wounded Warrior Project and other military non-profits. Those charitable partners include the USO, Hire a Hero, Project Resiliency/The Raven Drum Foundatio, and The Augusta Warrior Project. “Politicians fart through their mouth,” Simmons says. “Only the military makes freedom possible.”
Stanley adds that the group also plans to hire vets for its crew. “We try to find a couple of vets who want to go out and be part of the team,” he says. “This is a chance for somebody to travel and be part of the Kiss Army.”
Elliot says he doesn’t see any rivalry developing between the groups while they’re on tour. “It’s two great bands that are going to be playing for the same amount of time,” he says. “It’s joint forces. I don’t see it as competitive at all.”
Tour dates follow:
June
23 – USANA Amphitheater, West Valley City, Utah
25 – Pepsi Center, Denver, Colo.
27 – Sleep Country Amphitheater, Ridgefield, Wash.
29 – White River Amphitheatre, Auburn, Wash.
July
2 – Concord Pavilion, Concord, Calif.
3 – Sleep Train Amphitheatre, Wheatland, Calif.
5 – Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre, Irvine, Calif.
6 – Sleep Train Amphitheatre, Chula Vista, Calif.
8 – The Forum, Los Angeles, Calif.
9 – Ak-Chin Pavilion, Phoenix, Ariz.
12 – Austin360 Amphitheater, Austin, Texas (on sale March 22)
13 – Gexa Energy Pavilion, Dallas, Texas
15 – Riverbend Music Center, Cincinnati, Ohio
16 – Bridgestone Arena, Nashville, Tenn.
18 – Aaron’s Amphitheatre at Lakewood, Atlanta, Ga. (on sale March 22)
19 – PNC Music Pavilion, Charlotte, N.C.
20 – Walnut Creek Amphitheatre, Raleigh, N.C.
22 – Cruzan Amphitheatre, West Palm Beach, Fla.
23 – MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre, Tampa, Fla.
25 – Jiffy Lube Live, Bristow, Va.
26 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel, N.J. (on sale March 22)
August
1 – Xfinity Center, Mansfield, Mass.
2 – Boardwalk Hall, Atlantic City, N.J.
3 – Susquehanna Bank Center, Camden, N.J.
5 – Saratoga Performing Arts Center, Saratoga Springs, N.Y. (on sale March 22)
6 – Nikon At Jones Beach Theatre, Wantagh, N.Y. (on sale March 22)
8 – Farm Bureau Live at Virginia Beach, Virginia Beach, Va. (on sale March 22)
9 – Pavilion at Montage Mountain, Scranton, Penn.
10 – Xfinity Theatre, Hartford, Conn.
12 – Molson Canadian Amphitheatre, Toronto, On.
13 – Darien Lake Performing Arts Center, Darien, N.Y. (on sale March 22)
15 – Alpine Valley Music Theatre, East Troy, Wisc.
16 – First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre, Tinley Park, Ill.
17 – Target Center, Minneapolis, Minn.
20 – Wells Fargo Arena, Des Moines, Iowa
22 – Klipsch Music Center, Noblesville, Ind.
23 – DTE Energy Music Theatre, Clarkston, Mich. (on sale March 22)
24 – First Niagara Pavilion, Burgettstown, Penn. (on sale March 22)
26 – Blossom Music Center, Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio
28 – Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, Maryland Heights, Mo. (on sale March 22)
29 – BOK Center, Tulsa, Okla.
31 – Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, Woodlands, Texas
Courtesy of USA Today.com
3 Vie’s Verses – Kiss Finds New Ways To Disappoint Their Fans
It could have been so simple. It could have been a wonderful celebration of past, present, and future. It could have been the greatest moment in KISStory. Instead, it will now be a footnote to the 2014 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction/performance ceremony. Instead of performing in front of a hometown, New York City fan base, KISS will not be performing at all.
The band announced their decision on their official website (www.kissonline.com) after separate comments were made by founding members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. Ace fired the first shot on Eddie Trunk’s radio show, by saying that he and Peter had been denied the opportunity to perform at the Hall of Fame ceremony. Ace stated that Gene and Paul wanted their current lineup with Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer to perform instead. Peter Criss released his own statement stating: “… I want to make sure that fans understand that no original performance, in or out of makeup, has been offered to us…”
Gene and Paul immediately responded via the Kiss website, stating that they wanted to celebrate “the entire history of KISS and give credit to all members including present long time members Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer.” They went on to further state that they had never refused to play with Ace and Peter. Since the moment the band was announced as inductees, Gene Simmons has been in support of playing with Ace and Peter, at least for one or two songs.
It was speculated that Ace and Peter would play with Tommy and Eric either all together onstage, or that Ace and Peter would play a couple of songs as just the original lineup. Ace had stated that he didn’t want to perform alongside someone wearing his makeup, only fueling the fire that it may be Ace and Peter blocking the fans chances to see the original lineup one last time. And make no mistake about it— this would be the last time that the four of them would perform together.
Whether it’s Ace and Peter refusing to get onstage with Eric and Tommy, or if it is Gene and Paul trying to dictate what the band does, it is only the fans who get hurt in the end. This rock and roll induction performance had the potential to be the biggest moment in the history of KISS. It would have blown away the MTV unplugged performance where 6 members of the band (including Ace and Peter) all took the stage together. And if Gene and Paul were being true to their word and were going to celebrate the entire history of Kiss, then they should have asked Vinnie Vincent and Bruce Kulick to join in and paid tribute to Mark St. John and Eric Carr. Heck, Tommy could have been the Egyptian Ankh for one night and Eric Singer could have been the Fox. That would have been incredible! And the band could have then taken off the makeup and performed a set with Bruce and Eric featuring the 90s material (and maybe even perform a track from Carnival Of Souls).
This ceremony could have been a lifelong Kiss fan’s dream. It would have been absolutely amazing. Instead, it will be nothing. And I don’t know if there is anyone specifically to blame. It wouldn’t surprise me if Ace and/or Peter said that if anyone other than the original four performed they won’t do it. It wouldn’t surprise me if Gene said “It’s my way, or the highway.” When it comes to the original four members, there is nothing that can shock me anymore. Yet, it is a disappointment. It could have been one magical night, and now Ace and Peter aren’t even sure if they will attend the ceremony. And that is the largest disappointment of all.
Follow RyoVie on Twitter at Twitter.com/RyoVie
0 Vie’s Verses – Finally…KISS Is Going Into The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame
They’ve been eligible for fifteen years, and finally, this April, Kiss will be inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame. I understand that in the end it doesn’t matter if they were inducted or not. When bands like Public Enemy and Run-DMC are in the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, it’s all a marketing joke, but deep down inside, I’ve always wanted Kiss to be inducted. As a fan, it’s the recognition of the band’s longevity and success by their critics and peers that makes me excited. Yes, it is silly, but when they stand up there and give their speech and get enshrined, as a fan, it’s our way of justifying that we were right, this is the greatest rock band in the entire world.
After years of being ignored, Kiss will finally have their day alongside Nirvana and Peter Gabriel (as well as Hall & Oates and Linda Ronstadt). This year’s ceremony is going to be held at the Barclay’s center in Brooklyn, and former members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are expected to be present and may even take the stage with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley for a performance. As amazing as that will be, I don’t think it will open the door for a full reunion. Gene is happy with Tommy and Eric being in the band, and even though many fans still refer to them as “scabs” they are talented musicians in their own right and add an element to the band that was lacking in prior years. Hopefully they will attend the ceremony along with former guitarist Bruce Kulick. Ultimately, I would love to see all 7 members on stage for at least one song (ala the Unplugged concert from 1996). It would be a magnificent experience, but I am sure that most fans only want the original four to perform and be honored on that night.
Kiss is going to be celebrating their 40th are still performing (The Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen and the E-Street Band are the only two I can think of). Kiss has been entertaining the masses for 40 years anniversary next year. Not many bands reach that plateau andvand they still put on one of the best shows in all of rock and roll. To see them enshrined in the Rock and Roll Hall Of Fame is going to be fantastic. It’s an honor they should have been given years ago. And for one night, the spotlight will be on the original four once again. I’m sure they will perform the overplayed hits like “Rock And Roll All Night” and “Deuce,” but that’s all right. To see the four original members perform together again will be nice, but again, I expect that it will be only for one night, and that’s all right.
Rather than do a nostalgic reunion tour, I am hoping that Kiss gets back in the studio and releases another record. Their last album, Monster, was one of the strongest of their career and I want to see that creativity continue on. As a fan, I am greedy. I want more Kiss albums and I want them now. To tour with the original members would halt that production, unless they record a new album with all four original members. That would be a real treat, but not something I will hold my breath for.
Tickets for the April concert are going on sale to the general public in January, and I am going to do my best to try and get them, but I expect to be shut out. However, I am going to give it my best effort. To be at this ceremony, watching Kiss get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame would be a lifelong Kiss fan’s dream. Hopefully, it will be a dream come true.
0 New Lyric Video – KISS – Right Here, Right Now
The legendary, multi-platinum selling band KISS bursts onto your screen as they team up with VEVO, the world’s leading all-premium music video and entertainment platform, for the global premiere of the band’s explosive new Lyric Video for the song “Right Here Right Now” from their current release Monster (UMe).
Check out the clip below!
The lyrics and video for “Right Here Right Now” encapsulates KISS’ drive and sheer, unrelenting determination as they triumphantly succeeded in becoming one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all-time. Packed with all the explosions, fire, confetti and excitement you can expect from a true, larger-than-life KISS concert experience, VEVO’s premiere of KISS’ bombastic new video “Right Here Right Now” brings this extravaganza right into your home and onto your screen. The video also features the legions of devoted fans and KISS Army members from around the world whose dedication continue to make KISS one of the greatest and most successful rock bands in history. “Right Here Right Now” has also been adopted by the Arena Football League (AFL) and will be played in every AFL arena during this season and is destined to become the rally song for years to come.
During KISS’ illustrious, 40-plus year history the band has earned 28 U.S. gold albums, the most gold records for any American rock band, 40 million sales in the U.S., and a total exceeding 100 million worldwide.
You can catch KISS on the road as they continue with their massive 2013 Monster Tour, taking their spectacular stage show around the world in support of Monster.
0 KISS BRINGS THEIR ARMY TO AXS TV FOR A MONSTER LIVE EVENT
Exclusive World Premiere Television Broadcast LIVE from Switzerland
Thursday June 20
KISS and AXS TV are giving the Kiss Army a special opportunity to see the legendary rockers with a live broadcast from the Zurich, Switzerland stop on their current European MONSTER WORLD TOUR. The live concert event will air Thursday June 20th at 3pmET/NoonPT with a special encore presentation that night at 11pmET/8pmPT.
WHAT: ROCK AND ROLL ALL NIGHT with the KISS MONSTER WORLD TOUR, LIVE from Zurich, Switzerland. AXS TV will exclusively world premiere the amazing brand new KISS staging, lighting, pyrotechnics and the explosive show of the decade, never before seen on television.
WHERE: AXS TV
AT&T U-Verse Channel 1106
DIRECTV Channel 340
DISH Channel 367
Verizon FiOS Channel 569
For Charter, Comcast XFinity, Suddenlink and other cable providers please check local listings or axs.tv/subscribe
WHEN: Thursday, June 20, 2013
LIVE Television Event at 3pmET / NoonPT
ENCORE PRESENATION at 11pmET/8pmPT
5 Rob Rockitt’s Top Hard Rock Albums of 2012
Yes, it is that time of year again. Hard Rock Hideout writers, Rob Rockitt and Ryo Vie pick our Top 10 albums of 2012. 2012 was a solid year for hard rock. There were many great releases, and quite a few above average ones as well. Trying to pick the top 10 is always a daunting task each year. After a lot of thought, discriminating, listening and re-listening, I have finally made my choices. If you haven’t added the 10 albums below to your collection, you are truly missing out on the best of 2012.
The following albums almost made the cut in the top 10, but are definitely worth mentioning.
Honorable Mentions:
RUSH – Clockwork Angels
ACCEPT – Stalingrad
Youngblood – No Retreat
Dokken – Broken Bones
L.A. Guns – Hollywood Forever
The Darkness – Hotcakes
Foxy Shazam – The Church of Rock and Roll
Papa Roach – The Connection
The Treatment – This Might Hurt
Jackyl – Best In Show
Bullet – Full Pull
Slash – Apocalyptic Love
Kill Devil Hill – S/T
SNEW – What’s It To Ya
Europe – Bag of Bones
Jack Blades – Rock N Roll Ride
Fozzy – Sin & Bones
Trixter – New Audio Machine
In This Moment – Blood
Testament – Dark Roots of Earth
And now for my top 10 of 2012!
10. Texas Hippie Coalition – Peacemaker – Texas Hippie Coalition released their third album Peacemaker in 2012, and in my opinion, in it is their best one yet. These boys are obviously still “Pissed Off and Mad About It”. Their anger has inspired a new set of killer tunes including “Hands Up”, “Damn You To Hell”, “Sex Drugs and Rock and Roll”, and “Paw Paw Hill”. Don’t miss this!! Check out the song “Hands Up” below.
9. Halestorm – The Strange Case Of – Halestorm’s latest effort The Strange Case Of isn’t without some cheesy tunes (especially if you have the version with the bonus tracks) but overall, it is a very strong release and Lzzy Hale has never sounded better. Check out the song “Freak Like Me” below.
8. Jettblack – Raining Rock – Raining Rock is no sophomore slump for the UK rockers Jettblack. It is a shame that this hasn’t had an official U.S. release. I am betting a lot of folks missed this one, and everyone who loves classic rock should check this one out. You can get it at Amazon.com.
7. Shinedown – Amaryllis – I loved Shinedown’s 2008 CD The Sound of Madness, so I was really looking forward to hearing Amaryllis. Amaryllis might be borderline when it comes to hard rock, but this is easily one of Shinedown’s best CD’s to date, and easily one of the best of 2012.
Check out the song “Unity” below.
6. Adler – Back From The Dead – One of the biggest surprises of 2012, is the debut album from former Guns N’ Roses drummer Stephen Adler. This CD has great rocking tunes, and no filler tracks. Adler outdid his former band mate Slash as far as new music in 2012 in my opinion.
5. Adrenaline Mob – Omertá – What happens when Russell Allen (Sumphony X) and Mike Portnoy (Ex-Dream Theater) join forces? They put out a damn find hard rock album that is NOT progressive metal. I think the non progressive style of Omerta surprised some folks, but give this one a few spins, and you can’t deny that this is a great album. Everyone should be talking about Mike Orlando, who is one incredible guitarist.
Check out the song “Indifferent” below.
4. The Cult – Choice of Weapon – With the Cult set on releasing time capsules instead of albums, I didn’t think we would ever have another new album from the band. Much to my surprise and utter happiness, The Cult released Choice of Weapon last May. In my opinion, this albums stands up to some of the Cult’s best work including Electric and Sonic Temple.
Check out the song “For the Animals”!
3. Charm City Devils – Sins – It took a few years for CCD to put out their second effort Sins, but I can gladly say that it was worth the wait. John Allen is a fine song writer, and pretty decent singer too. Sins leans more toward the modern side of hard rock but their isn’t a bad song on Sins. I love their remake of “Man of Constant Sorrow”, and have played the hell out of Sins in 2012.
Check out the song “Unstoppable” below.
2. Van Halen – A Different Kind of Truth – Everyone wanted to see David Lee Roth rejoin Van Halen, but it took a few years for the band to record some new tunes. I say “new” loosely with so many older demo cuts being used on A Different Kind of Truth, but as must people already know. OLD Van Halen is the best Van Halen, and A Different Kind of Truth is a great album. (And yes, I even like the song “Tattoo”.)
1. KISS – Monster – You wanted the best, you got the best!! Never in my wildest dreams did I think KISS would be able to put out another album as strong as Monster. I enjoyed their previous effort Sonic Boom, but Monster outshines that album by a mile. Easily my favorite KISS album since Revenge! This album is practically worth picking up for “Wall of Sound” all by itself. Hopefully KISS will tour for this album another year, and do more songs from it.
2 Ryo Vie’s Top Album’s of 2012
Ahhh, it’s that time of the year again. The end of 2012 is upon us. We’ve survived the prophesied apocalypse and now we can look forward to the dawn of 2013. However, before we can move ahead and discuss all of the great rock music that the New Year has in store, we must take a moment to reflect on all the brilliance that was delivered over the last twelve months. So, I am here to do my part. Below are my favorite albums from 2012. I can only hope that 2013 is just as rewarding.
#10 – Kill Devil Hill: Kill Devil Hill
There are few things more enjoyable than being blasted in the ears by the opening track of a brilliant hard rock record. With Vinny Appice and Rex Brown at the helm, you just know that good things are waiting. And good things are exactly what Kill Devil Hill presented. Loud, pure unadulterated, hard rock music delivered with a vengeance. This is doom and gloom meets modern rock minus all of the filler. Kill Devil Hill makes you want to rock out in your bedroom (or wherever you like to rock out) for hours on end. Once the album is over, it’s fun to hit repeat and let it play again.
You can read my full review of Kill Devil Hill here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/06/22/kill-devil-hill-st-2012
Album Highlights: “War Machine,” “Old Man”
#9 – Danko Jones: Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue
Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue made me wish I had paid attention to Danko Jones sooner. This is an album that comes equipped with a blues/rock sound full of sexual vibe, hard rocking music, and a whole lot of fun. From odes to the beautiful legs on women, to the joy of waking up to another day, Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue comes stocked with uplifting songs that make feet move and faces smile. This is an album that forces the listener to feel happy by the time it is over. This record is a great reminder that music doesn’t always have to be deep and meaningful with insightful thought put into every word that is sung. Sometimes music is just meant to be fun, and that is what Danko Jones captured on Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue — a whole lot of fun!
You can read my full review of Rock And Roll Is Black And Blue here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/10/16/danko-jones-rock-and-roll-is-black-and-blue-2012
Album Highlights: “Legs,” “Always Away”
#8 – The Veer Union: Divide The Blackened Sky
Still relatively new to the music scene, The Veer Union delivered a gem this year with Divide The Blackened Sky, a hard hitting, highly enjoyable, modern rock record. The Veer Union have captured the modern rock sound and delivered it flawlessly on their sophomore effort. Divide The Blackened Sky is rife with dark and gritty songs that touch on themes of pain, retribution, and ultimately, hope. The Veer Union did not shy away from the challenge of putting out a heavy, dark, hard rocking record. If you’re looking for some enjoyable modern rock to add to your collection, pick up a copy of Divide The Blackened Sky.
You can read my full review of Divide The Blackened Sky here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/04/16/the-veer-union-divide-the-blackened-sky-2012
Album Highlights: “Borderline,” “Inside Our Scars”
#7 – Bullet: Full Pull
Swedish Metal is great. When Swedish Metal is performed by Bullet, it’s even greater! Full Pull is the latest record from this band and it is grand in every sense. Exceptional guitars, heavy drums, and vocals sung by a voice that feels it is erupting from the soul of the Earth, all collide to make Full Pull an amazing record worthy of seeking out. If you haven’t checked out Bullet yet, Full Pull is a great record to introduce yourself to the band and their music. Part AC/DC, part Jackyl, Bullet is all great. If you like your rock loud and proud, you are going to love Full Pull.
You can read my full review of Full Pull here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/12/18/bullet-full-pull-2012
Album Highlights: “Full Pull,” “High On the Hog”
#6 – Charm City Devils: Sins
One of the best musical surprises of the year was Charm City Devils’ Sins. I had not paid much attention to this band prior to the release of this album, and that was probably a mistake on my part. Sins is a hard rocking, tempo driven, fun record to listen to. Fun is the most important word in that equation. Sins is just that — fun. If you’re a fan of old school hair metal or hard rock music that makes you want to sing along while stuck in traffic, Sins is the album for you. Perfectly balanced with hard rock anthems, loving ballads, and songs that strippers will be dancing on stage to for years to come, Sins is a terrific album.
You can read Rob’s full review of Sins here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/05/02/charm-city-devils-sins-2012
Album Highlights: “Devil Is A Woman,” “Walk Away”
#5 – Shinedown: Amaryllis
Man, these guys just keep getting better and better with every release. With their first release, Leave A Whisper, Shinedown took the music world by storm with massive hits and potential. Their last album, Sound Of Madness, was a phenomenal record that really made me a fan of the band. When the follow up was released earlier this year, I was skeptical that it was going to be as good as The Sound Of Madness. Fortunately for fans, it turned out to be even better. Amaryllis is a hard rocking album that is a pure joy to listen to. From the opening notes of “Adrenaline” to the closing moments of “Through The Ghost,” Amaryllis is a fun ride of rock and roll.
You can read my full review of Amaryllis here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/04/06/shinedown-amaryllis-2012
Album Highlights: “Amaryllis,” “Bully”
#4 – Van Halen: A Different Kind Of Truth
With the return of David Lee Roth to a Van Halen album of all original material fans rejoiced, and rightfully so. This was a true gift given to Van Halen fans that waited years for the return of Diamond Dave. And while their tour may have crashed and burned, and the absence of Michael Anthony is noticeable, that still doesn’t diminish the brilliance of A Different Kind Of Truth. This is Van Halen the way they were meant to be and A Different Kind Of Truth is a great follow up to 1984 even if it came many years later than fans had hoped. Packed with plenty of Dave scat, wicked solos by the great Edward Van Halen, and a song style that could only be pulled off by this band, A Different Kind Of Truth is one of the greatest records 2012 had to offer.
You can read Rob’s full review of A Different Kind Of Truth here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/02/05/van-halen-a-different-kind-of-truth-2012
Album Highlights: “Tattoo,” “Big River”
#3 – Bruce Springsteen: Wrecking Ball
Okay, bring on the haters. Regardless of what a lot of people may think, I personally find Springsteen to be hard rock. He has all of the elements a hard rock band needs (heavy guitars, drums, solos, and an Us against Them mentality), so to me he’s hard rock. And since I find Springsteen to be hard rock, I get to put his latest album in my top 10. Wrecking Ball has done nothing but get better over the course of this year. While a lot of albums that are released in the early spring are long forgotten, Bruce’s magnificent Wrecking Ball is not. The record holds up well many months later and is still the highlight of my playlist for 2012. There’s a reason that Springsteen is the Boss—he knows how to write great music. Packed with nothing but potential hits, Wrecking Ball is a satisfying record and one of the best Springsteen has ever released. If he keeps making records this great, I’ll keep buying them, along with millions of other fans.
You can read my full review of Wrecking Ball here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/03/07/bruce-springsteen-wrecking-ball-2012
Album Highlights: “Easy Money,” “Shackled And Drawn”
#2 – KISS: Monster
Kiss released an album of all new material, the follow up to the amazing Sonic Boom. What’s not to love? Haters be damned (you know the ones that call Eric and Tommy scabs), this is a phenomenal KISS record. Yes, it could challenge any of the classics for top 5 Kiss record. Yes, it is even better than Sonic Boom. Yes, Tommy and Eric sound terrific on this album. Look, we all love Ace and Peter and miss them very much, but they are out of the band and fans need to let them go. This is the new incarnation of KISS, and as far as I am concerned, they are incredible in their own right. Monster makes me hope that we get more new KISS music very soon. Psycho Circus never made me feel that way. If you haven’t gotten your copy of Monster yet, well, what the heck are you waiting for?
You can read my full review on Monster here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/10/10/kiss-monster-2012
Album Highlights: “Freak,” “Long Way Down”
#1 – Dead Sara: Dead Sara
Let’s face it—when you listen to an album at least once a week since you received it, there is no way that it can’t be your favorite album of the year. Such is the case with Dead Sara. While I love Kiss’ Monster, Dead Sara beats it out. Simply put, I’ve never stopped listening to it. This album hit me hard from the first time I played it. Honestly, I wasn’t expecting much because the record had been so hyped up by other bloggers, reviewers, and critics. Usually when an album gets that much hype it fails to produce the necessary results. Dead Sara, however, actually exceeded the hype. The last debut album that I thought was this good came from a band called Guns N Roses. Dead Sara has the opportunity to go down in history as one of the greatest rookie releases ever. Yes, the album is that fantastic. If you haven’t sought out Dead Sara, stop everything and order it online now. You owe it to yourself to start 2013 off with a bang!
You can read my full review of Dead Sara here: http://hardrockhideout.com/2012/05/11/dead-sara-st-2012
Album Highlights: “Whispers & Ashes,” “Test On My Patience”
0 New Episode of RagingMetal Streaming Now!
The latest episode of the RagingMetal show is now available for streaming and download. This week’s episode features new music from Doro, T&N, Firewind and the feature band KISS. Check it out!
2 KISS – Monster (2012)
You wanted the best, you got the best! The hottest band in the world! Kiss! Kiss is back with their 20th studio album, Monster, the follow up to 2009’s fabulous Sonic Boom. Can Kiss repeat their spectacular performance from their last album, or will Monster fall flat on its face? That is a question that many die hard Kiss fans were wondering. Do these aging rockers still have what it takes to produce a record that fans are going to want to listen to over and over again?
If the album were judged solely on the strength of the first single (and first track), “Hell Or Hallelujah,” then the answer is no. “Hell Or Hallelujah” is not a strong song. It’s not a terrible piece of music, it is just plain, which is not something that one would expect from Kiss. Fortunately for fans all over the world, Monster contains more than just the lead track.
Monster is armed with typical Kiss themes of girls, music, girls, parties, girls, rock and roll, and girls. And even though they are aging rockers, they still make singing about girls and rock music a whole lot of fun. Kiss has delivered a phenomenal package of rock music that both long time fans and newcomers alike are going to love. After nearly 40 years in the business, Kiss still has what it takes to make a significant rock record that music lovers will want to hear.
“Wall Of Sound” is a terrific, hard rocker featuring lead vocals by Gene Simmons. Thankfully, this is not a self-centered Gene Simmons song about sleeping with thousands of women, or being the greatest human being alive. On “Wall Of Sound,” Gene reached a little deeper to not flaunt himself, but to sing about rock and roll and the wall of sound that makes fans excited. “Wall Of Sound,” can also be used as a metaphor for life, showing how the harder you try at something, the better you are going to be. It all comes down to the amount of effort a person is willing to put in. With slick solos by Tommy Thayer, and beautiful musical arrangements and chord changes, “Wall Of Sound” is one of the better songs to be found on Monster.
Tommy Thayer takes over lead vocals for the tantalizing “Outta This World.” This is a superb song with terrific solos, excellent changes, and a great beat. Hearing Tommy sing lead vocals is a real treat as well and left me wanting to hear Thayer sing lead on more songs. Thayer has a solid voice, is adept at crafting a song, and creates al highly enjoyable experience for the listener. I would much rather see Tommy Thayer perform “Outta This World” live, instead of “Shock Me.” Let’s hope that Kiss let’s Tommy’s original songs speak for themselves on the next tour.
“Long Way Down” is a nice melodic rocker composed and sung by Paul Stanley. The harmony vocals from Tommy Thayer add a nice touch and provide a pleasing balance with Paul’s voice. “Long Way Down,” is another of those great Kiss rock and roll songs, telling stories about the crowd, the music business, and continuing to make a significant contribution in rock and roll after many years. It’s always enjoyable when Paul writes from the heart, and “Long Way Down” feels like a song that Stanley really put all of his emotions into as a thank you to the fans.
“Take Me Down,” is one of the best tracks that Monster has to offer. Not surprisingly, this is a song about loving women and the sexual escapades that can only happen to a member of a rock band. What makes “Take Me Down” so grand is the depth provided in the music. While the lyrics are playful and light, the musical composition is deep and meaningful. It’s quite obvious that the addition of Tommy Thayer to the band has had a profound effect on Kiss. The extra layers of depth and creativity that Thayer provides has not gone unnoticed. He has been able to elevate Kiss to continue to make significant music.
“All For The Love Of Rock & Roll” finds Eric Singer on lead vocals, doing a fine job. While his voice is reminiscent of Peter Criss, Singer provides enough of his own personality to help “All For The Love Of Rock & Roll” stand out as his own song. Singing about performing the music for love, not for fame or girls, is a tired theme that has been revisited countless times by endless bands, but hearing Eric Singer give his take on the theme is still a treat for the ears. This is another song that I hope Kiss will consider performing in concert.
Once again, Kiss has delivered another high quality record. Monster is better than Sonic Boom, better than Psycho Circus, and rivals their albums of the 70s for greatest Kiss albums ever. Once again, Kiss has recorded music for the masses that already has fans wondering when they will release more. Because when something is this good, you just can’t get enough!
Rating: 
Out of 10
Track Listing:
- Hell Or Hallelujah
- Wall Of Sound
- Freak
- Back To The Stone
- Shout Mercy
- Eat Your Heart Out
- Long Way Down
- The Devil Is Me
- Outta This World
- Take Me Down
- All For The Love Of Rock & Roll
- Last Chance
Kiss Is:
Gene Simmons – Vocals, Bass Guitar
Paul Stanley – Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Tommy Thayer – Lead Guitar, Vocals
Eric Singer – Drums, Vocals
0 New Hard Rock & Metal Releases for October 9th!
This is a crazy new release week, with new arrival’s from KISS, Danko Jones, 69 Eyes, an amazing new hair metal CD from Youngblood,
a new live disc from Motorhead and many more. Go to your local music store and support new music!!
New Releases for October 9th!
KISS – Monster
The Wallflowers – Glad All Over
The Very Best of Dio – Vol. 2
The 17-track The Very Beast of Dio Vol. 2 CD (released via Niji Entertainment) picks up exactly where the first volume left off – from 1996 onward. And in addition to featuring such latter-day Dio classics as Killing the Dragon, Push, and Fever Dreams, the compilation will also include several rarities that fans have long requested on a single disc – Electra (which previously was only a part of the ultra-rare Tournado box set), Prisoner of Paradise, and Metal Will Never Die.
Nonpoint – S/T
Wednesday 13 – Spook & Destroy
Danko Jones – Rock And Roll is Black And Blue
Youngblood – No Regrets
Coheed & Cambria – Afterman: Ascension
Motorhead – The Wörld Is Ours – Vol 2 – Anyplace Crazy As Anywhere Else (Live)
69 Eyes – X
Obsession – Order of Chaos (Michael Vescera, BJ Zampa, Chris McCarvill
1 Vie’s Verses – Thoughts on Kiss & Motley Crue
As avid readers of Vie’s Verses know (yes, there are avid readers…), I recently attended the Kiss/Motley Crue concert at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel New Jersey. It would be my 10th time seeing Kiss perform live, and even though I have witnessed their spectacular show that many times, I was still giddy with anticipation as I drove down the Garden State Parkway toward the Arts Center. I was looking forward to all three bands on the bill (The Treatment was the opening act), but I was most looking forward to Kiss.
Unfortunately, thanks to friends who arrived late, walked slow, and forced me to wait in the port-a-potty line because they just COULD NOT make it to bathroom inside the amphitheater, I missed The Treatment. A couple of friends later informed me that The Treatment was not very good, but I still wanted to witness it for myself. These were also friends who had never heard of the band prior to that night. I however, am a lover of their debut album, and still steaming that I missed the band. Stupid small bladder people!
We did arrive just in time for Motley Crue to take the stage and for the food stand to run out of burgers. I only mention this because it was the oddest experience I’ve had at a concert (in relation to food, anyway). I mean, how does one simply run out of burgers before the main act has even taken the stage? That irritated me, because I was pretty hungry by that point and the cheeseburgers looked fabulous. I secretly cursed my friends again, knowing that if they walked a little faster, or learned how to hold their urine a little longer, I could have enjoyed a burger AND the opening act.
Motley Crue took the stage to “Saints Of Los Angeles,” which I thought was excellent. I hate it when bands ignore their newer material in order to play only their classic cuts. That set the concert off to a great start. The rest of the Crue’s performance would be solid, but not as grand as when they took the stage to “Saints Of Los Angeles.”
Motley Crue is putting on a festival with this current tour. It consisted of a cavalcade of strippers in a variety of outfits and poses. There were some in all leather, some in almost nothing at all, and there were even strippers on stilts. And while the only purpose they served was to look good, that was all right, because the men in the audience loved it, and secretly, some of the women may have liked it too. To me, it was just Motley Crue being Motley Crue, and it was what I had expected of the band.
During “Don’t Go Away Mad (Just Go Away)” my friend Dave poised a very poignant question. “Do you think we like this concert because it’s that good, or are we just nostalgic for that time period in our lives?” Damn good question. As I pondered it for a moment, I realized that the song playing was 23 years old and I could remember the first time I ever heard it after buying Dr. Feelgood on cassette tape the day of its release. I didn’t provide Dave with an answer, but he didn’t need one.
Tommy Lee took over the spotlight about halfway through the night. He did his drum solo in a circular roller coaster that sat at the back of the stage, and then performed it again, this time with a member of the audience strapped in next to him. And while I do not care for Tommy Lee at all, I thought it was quite cool to see a member of the audience strapped in next to him as he performed a roller coaster drum solo.
Vince Neil pulled his usual sing every third word, forget most of the lyrics, and hold the microphone out to the audience in the hopes that they will think it’s cool and not realize that he doesn’t know the lyrics to his own songs. And even that has become quaint. While it used to annoy me to see Vince huffing and puffing and singing “He’s…screaming….night….” I find it amusing now. Again, it’s to be expected. And while Vince was huffing and puffing, Mick Mars was still being the coolest guy on the stage. Here’s a guy that’s battling a spinal disease, is in immense pain just from standing, looks like a skeleton come to life, and he’s still the coolest being at the Arts Center. Mick Mars is a true Rock God!
Overall, Motley Crue did what I expected that Motley Crue would. They put on a hot, nostalgic, debauchery filled, hell of a good time, rock and roll show. How could anyone complain about that?
Kiss, too, would deliver exactly what I expected of them, although by the end of their set, I was wishing they had played longer. Yes, I understand it was a double bill and that each band was limited to twelve or thirteen songs. I didn’t care. I still wanted to see more Kiss before the night was through.
Kiss took the stage to the classic “Detroit Rock City” and the night was underway. Most of the songs performed were from 1978 or earlier. And with the exception of their brand new single, “Hell Or Hallelujah,” there wasn’t a song played that had been recorded after 1983. To some fans, this was heaven. To me, it was a cop out, and a put off. Kiss had just toured behind one of their best albums ever recorded and now they refuse to play at least one song from it? How disappointing.
The expected antics were all present and accounted for. Gene would breathe fire and spit blood. Paul Stanley would fly out to the audience and play “Love Gun” from a smaller stage. Tommy would shoot rockets out of his guitar. And even their newest trick was present and accounted for— Eric firing a bazooka at the end of Tommy’s guitar solo.
Tommy Thayer would take over the lead vocals for “Shock Me,” and this was another disappointing moment in the night. No, I don’t mind Tommy singing lead vocals for a song (or two), but why “Shock Me?” As mentioned, Kiss just toured behind Sonic Boom, which contained a fantastic song sung by Tommy Thayer, “When Lightning Strikes.” Why not have Tommy sing his own song? Or, if you must only perform the classics, then have him take over lead vocals for “Cold Gin.” Just don’t have him take Ace’s signature song and then steal Ace’s guitar solo. That has really bothered me a lot over the years.
The rest of the Kiss night was exactly what I’ve come to expect, and even though I have seen it multiple times, I still found myself smiling, laughing, singing along, and clapping my hands. I screamed for “I Love It Loud,” I pumped my fist like a good Kiss Army soldier during “War Machine,” and I jumped up and down like a little boy for “Shout It Out Loud.” Was it because the show was that good, or was nostalgia hitting me hard? Who knows? All that I know for sure is that I had a spectacular time. Kiss ended with “Rock And Roll All Nite,” as expected, complete with confetti bombs bursting and spraying the audience ad infinitum. And while I had seen that gag a million times as well, I still grinned and loved it. It was, after all, Kiss being Kiss, and that was a good thing.
All in all, both Motley Crue and Kiss put on a great show. If you’re going to catch the concert this fall, you’re in for a real treat. Don’t expect any deep cuts, don’t expect any outrageous surprises, just expect a good old-fashioned, rock and roll show, one that’s worth the price of admission. Can you really ask for more than that?
Follow RyoVie on Twitter at Twitter.com/RyoVie
3 Vie’s Verses – Are You Excited For The New Kiss Album?
On October 9th, Kiss will release their 20th studio album (I’m not including the solo albums or hits album in that count). The title of the record is Monster, but I have my doubts that it will be. Most of the regular readers of Vie’s Verses know that I am a huge Kiss fan, so perhaps I can be a bit too critical of my favorite band. I place them on a very high pedestal and only expect greatness from every record. Over the years, the band has never let me down. Even albums that casual fans think are garbage (Crazy Nights, Music From The Elder) are solid, if not great, albums, in my opinion. However, I can’t help thinking that Monster is going to suck.
The first single, “Hell Or Hallelujah,” is just terrible. There’s no way to sugar coat that, and there’s really not even much about the song that I can praise. It sounds like a left over from the Sonic Boom sessions that didn’t make the cut (and for good reason). It’s just a bad, boring song. Paul’s vocals are weak, the lyrics are pretty lame, and there is no cohesiveness to pull the song through. If this is any indication of how the rest of the album is going to sound then there will be a lot of disappointed Kiss fans. (Check out “Hell or Hallelujah” below.)
I’ll admit, I felt the same way when I first heard “Psycho Circus.” I thought that album was going to be a bomb and it turned out to be one of the better Kiss records in their catalog. After a while “Psycho Circus” even grew on me and now I enjoy the song when I hear it. But when the single was first released, I remember scratching my head, saying “what the hell were they thinking?”
Kiss is also coming off a surprisingly fantastic record. Sonic Boom was given the title of album of the year, 2009, by yours truly. It was a record that had depth, found all four members of the band taking over lead vocals at some point, and was very diverse. Yes, there were a couple of lame moments (notably Gene’s ode to women and himself on “Nobody’s Perfect”), but those moments were few and far between. Sonic Boom also gave us some gems like “Never Enough,” “Stand,” and “Say Yeah.” That was a great trade off for one lousy Gene Simmons song.
The point is that it can be very hard to follow up a terrific album with one that is equally as grand, or better. And when it comes to my favorite band of all time, I want each record to be better than the last. It’s been 3 years since Kiss released Sonic Boom, so the band has had time to craft their songs and pick out only the cream of the crop. But with tours, reality shows, art galleries, and the like, I’m not sure how much effort Kiss put into this record. I hope that I am way off the mark. I hope that Monster is one of their best records ever. However, I don’t think that it will be. I have a strong feeling that Monster is going to be a letdown.
Let’s face it, Kiss isn’t getting any younger. And as cool as he is, hearing a 65 year old Gene Simmons sing about all the ladies he wants to bed has gone from crazy cool to kind of old man perverted. That’s one of the downsides of aging. If your grandfather was talking about hooking up with some 25 year old hottie, you’d find it a little off. Yeah, it’s great that granddad still wants to do the nasty, but I’m not really sure that we want all of the details. At their age, Kiss should be maturing and writing music that reflects that. It’s not easy to do, I know. We don’t want songs about hospitals and hip surgery, but I’m not sure that I want songs about Gene getting it on in a one night stand.
In the end, Monster is going to be another record about sex and rock and roll. Perhaps it will be as good as Sonic Boom, perhaps it will be even better. I have my doubts, but again, it’s because I am very critical of the band. On October 9th, I may be in for a huge surprise. What about you? How do you think the new Kiss record is going to be? Do you think it will be a huge hit, or a complete bomb? Drop a line in the comments and let us know.
Follow RyoVie on Twitter at Twitter.com/RyoVie
0 New Hard Rock Releases This Week!
So what new music hit the stores this week? There are a few things worth checking out! The most notable would be the new album, Hot
Cakes from the Darkness! Speaking of The Darkness, the band will be taking over the @Rhapsody twitter handle today! If your have any burning questions for them, you will have the chance to interact with them live. More details below.
The Darkness Twitter Takeover
When: Wednesday, August 22nd at 10am PST
Where: Twitter.com/Rhapsody
Fans can tweet their questions on @Rhapsody to #DarknessRhap
New Releases For the Week of 8/21:
KISS – Destroyer – Resurrected
Lynyrd Skynyrd – Last of a Dyin’ Breed
Project 86 – Wait for the Siren
The Darkness – Hot Cakes
The Kinks – At The BBC (Import)
Riff Raff – Leaving D.C.
0 ADLER TO JOIN FORCES WITH KISS ON THE KISS KRUISE
Adler, the new band led by former Guns N Roses drummer Steven Adler has been added to the lineup for The Kiss Kruise. The second KISS Kruise is setting sail October 31 – November 4, 2012 from Miami, FL to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas onboard the Norwegian Pearl. No other Hallows’ Eve celebrations can compare!
The Kiss Kruise will mark the first ever live performance of Adler. “I’m really excited to debut my new band by playing with Kiss” states Steven Adler. “Kiss has always been one of my favorite bands and they are all great guys. The cruise is sure to be an amazing time!”
Adler is comprised of Steven Adler, frontman Jacob Bunton (Lynam, Mars Electric), guitarist Lonny Paul (Adler’s Appetite), and bassist Johnny Martin (Chelsea Smiles). “I’m really looking forward to playing live with this band” states Bunton. “We just finished an incredible record and are looking forward to taking it on the road”.
Adler just finished recording their debut record in Los Angeles with producer Jeff Pilson (Foreigner, Dokken). The album features guest appearances from Adler’s former Guns N Roses band mate Slash and Rob Zombie / ex-Marilyn Manson guitarist John 5. The album was mixed by Jay Ruston (Anthrax, Stone Sour). The first single “The One That You Hated” is out now on iTunes and the video can be viewed on Rolling Stone.com at this location http://www.rollingstone.com/music/videos/adler-the-one-that-you-hated-20120426. The album will be released later this year.
For more information, check out the band’s website:
Adler Facebook:
Adler Twitter:
0 KISS RELEASES LARGEST ROCK BOOK EVER: THE KISS MONSTER BOOK, 8/21, VIPER ROOM
“When They Say Size Doesn’t Matter, They’re Lying” – Gene Simmons
BIGGER….BADDER….BOLDER….
THE BIGGEST ROCK BAND IN THE WORLD, RELEASES THE LARGEST ROCK BOOK EVER TO BE PUBLISHED: KISS MONSTER BOOK
Iconic Rock Band Launches a Larger-Than-Life Journey Through 40-Years of KISS, with Limited-Edition Book Of Rare Photography on August 21 at Viper Room; Unseen Photographs, The Real Story, Exclusive Material
The biggest rock band in the world, KISS, is launching the largest rock book ever to be published, KISS MONSTER BOOK, standing 3 feet high by 2.5 feet wide and 2 inches thick, with a special appearance at the Viper Room on Tuesday, August 21 from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.
The KISS MONSTER BOOK offers a larger-than-life journey through 40-years of KISS with an intimate collection of 127 photographs by world-renowned rock photographers, including rare and never-before-seen images sourced from the band’s own archives. The massive book is a collector’s goldmine, with just 1,000 copies available and individually signed, dated and numbered by the four members of the current line-up. Printed in high-definition links by one of the world’s finest limited-edition and large format printers, each copy has been hand stitched-and-bound in Italy, by the same binder used by The Vatican.
Eleven different covers with matching signature pages have been produced, and anyone buying the book can choose their cover when they place their order. The pictures inside include unseen gems, old 35mm slides, famous moments and brand new pictures that bring the band right up-to-date. Coupled with the sheer size and quality of the images, this book is a photographic monument that chronicles the cultural phenomenon known as KISS. It’s an up-close-and-personal view of the most globally-recognized band in rock history, bringing the epic KISS experience alive.
Paul Stanley comments:“This book is way beyond my expectations. The photos are incredible at this size. It’s not a coffee table book, it’s a coffee table!”
KISS has worked closely with the publishers, carefully choosing the best and rarest images to illustrate every decade of their glorious history. The photos selected for the KISS MONSTER BOOK capture the absolute essence of being in-and-around a KISS concert, with incredible work by some of the greatest rock photographers of all time, including Richard Aaron, Fin Costello, Bob Gruen, Ross Halfin, Tom Hill, Steve Jennings, Andrew Kent, Barry Levine, Eric McKenna, Evan Mover, Michael Putland, Denis O’Regan, Chip Rock, Al Soluri, Mark Sullivan, Mark Weiss and Neil Zlozower. The result is an explosion of giant photographs showing KISS alive, with a stunning recreation of the KISS live experience that leaves you with the smell of pyrotechnics in your nostrils, the sound of the music in your ears, and a sense of danger in your belly. Many of the close-up photographs are literally the closest any fan could ever get to their rock heroes without an All-Access pass. The KISS MONSTER BOOK is the ultimate rock book experience.
KISS is massively influential on a global platform. The band is widely acclaimed for their elaborate live performances, which includes face paint, flamboyant stage outfits, fire-breathing, blood-spitting, smoking guitars and pyrotechnics. Formed in NY in the early 1970’s, KISS has broken box office records set by The Beatles and Elvis and is America’s #1 Gold Record Award-winning group of all-time (RIAA certified). The band’s KISSOLOGY Volume I, Volume II and Volume III have sold an amazing 20 times platinum in just North America alone. The band has sold more than 40 million albums U.S.; 20 million RIAA certified, and worldwide sales exceeding 100 million. KISS is currently on tour.
For more information, please visit www.kissmonsterbook.com and official website www.kissonline.com
2 The KISS Monster Hunt is Over!
KISS has been revealing pieces of their new album art for their up and coming album, Monster, at select websites throughout the month of June.
Today, the final piece was revealed, and the new album art is now available. Monster is due out October 16th.
2 KISS – Hell or Hallelujah Lyric Video
If you missed the leak of the the new KISS song “Hell or Hallelujah” on Youtube yesterday, have no fear! The band has released an official lyric video which you can watch below! Rock On!
2 New KISS Song Leaked on Youtube
The new KISS song and up and coming single “Hell or Hallelujah” has been leaked on Youtube, and it is pretty damn good! Check it out below! Thanks Jason!!
2 Vie’s Verses – 5 Songs I Would Love To Hear KISS Perform This Summer
Unless you’ve been living under a soft rock, you have no doubt heard that there is a huge, double-bill, rock and roll tour heading to a city near you this summer. Kiss will be teaming up with Motley Crue for what looks to be one of the hardest rocking double bills I’ve seen in years. I am looking forward to this amazing hard rock show when they roll into New Jersey this September. It’s going to be an awesome, late summer Friday night of fun and havoc!
Like I do with almost any concert that I attend, I’ve been thinking about what the setlists could be for each band this year. Will they stick to only the hits? Are they going to pull out some early classics? Will there be a surprise or two that no one expects? I’m always anxious to hear some deep cuts whenever I see either of these bands live, and this year is no exception. After giving it much thought, I’ve come up with a list of songs that would make me wet myself if they were performed live. Last time I wrote about the Motley songs I want to hear, this time, here are the five songs that I would love to hear from KISS.
Kiss
Sweet Pain (Destroyer)
“Sweet Pain” could be my favorite Kiss song ever. To the best of my knowledge, Kiss has only played this song live during their acoustic Konvention tour, where they played any song that the fans would call out. I have a copy of that song on a bootleg, and while it took a while for the band to get it down, they did a decent job. As one of the best songs on Destroyer it is a true shame that this song has never received a proper live performance. If Kiss would take the time to study this tune and pull it out for the upcoming tour, the buzz from the fans would be maddening. With the song’s power and intensity combined with it being a deep cut classic, all Kiss fans would love to hear “Sweet Pain.”
I (Music From The Elder)
How in the world does a rock band have a song that is so amazing, so powerful, and so fantastic that they never play it? It baffles my mind that Kiss has only performed “I” less than a handful of times and never since the acoustic Konvention tour back in 1995. “I” is one of those great Kiss classics where Gene and Paul trade verses to the delight of the Kiss Army. The song is a powerful anthem about believing in yourself and going above and beyond to achieve what you want in life. Like other Kiss anthems, “I” is a song that would rev the crowd up to such a massive dynamic, that the audience would scream their throats raw. “I” would be the best main set closer that Kiss has ever done since “Let Me Go Rock And Roll” held that honor in the early 70s. It would be a Kiss fan’s dream come true.
Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em (Rock And Roll Over)
“Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em” is a great late-70s Gene sung song centered on the theme of womanizing. This is a topic that Gene wrote about a lot back in the 70s and 80s and still writes a fair amount about today. “Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em” is a fantastic ode to the one night stand, and a Kiss song that has never gotten the proper attention that it deserves. Kiss has the chance to right that wrong this summer by pulling out this fantastic homage to loving the ladies for one night only.
I Still Love You (Creatures Of The Night)
Granted, out of all the Kiss songs that I would like to hear in concert this year, “I Still Love You” is the one that has been played most recently. It is also the one song on this list that has the best chance of being played live during this concert. “I Still Love You” is one of Kiss’ strongest, operatic ballads and the live version is simply amazing. If Paul Stanley still has the range, pulling out this classic Kiss song would likely see an amazing crowd reaction.
Almost Human (Love Gun)
“Almost Human” is practically an unknown Kiss song. Any time that I mention this song to anyone, even die-hard Kiss fans, they always give me a quizzical look. When I remind them that it was a side two track from Love Gun, I usually get a similar response of, “Oh, I’m going to have to go back and listen to that one again.” That’s how deep a track “Almost Human” is. However, just because it’s a deep track, doesn’t mean that it’s not a good track. This is one of my all time favorite Gene Simmons songs. It’s dark and haunting, with a theme centered on science fiction and fantasy more than women or rock and roll (a rarity for a Kiss song). Perhaps meant to be the sequel to “God Of Thunder,” “Almost Human” received no attention after being released on Love Gun. Now, 35 years after its release, Kiss could really make a statement and perform this song live for the first time ever. This would also be a great song for Gene Simmons to fly and spit blood before performing, giving it an added bonus of excitement for the fans.
Those are the five songs that I would like to hear Kiss perform on tour this summer. What about you? What Kiss songs are you hoping that the band dusts off? Which Kiss rarities have you always wanted to see in concert? Drop a line in the comments section and share your opinion!
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0 KISS ON TV Tonight!
KISS will perform both Monday (April 9th) and Tuesday (April 10th) on the TV show, Dancing With The Stars. The episodes air next Monday at 8 PM, EST and Tuesday at 9 PM, EST on ABC.
0 KISS / Motley Crue Tour Announced!
THE WORLD’S BIGGEST ROCK BANDS ON ONE STAGE
SUMMER 2012
Rock ‘n Roll doesn’t get any bigger than this! KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE… On the same stage… On the same night. This spectacle of spectacles announced today, KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE are uniting to launch THE TOUR of 2012. The summer’s biggest, baddest rock tour will level 40+ cities nationwide starting July 20th. The Live Nation promoted tour will go on sale beginning Friday, March 23rd at Ticketmaster.com and LiveNation.com. The KISS Army Fan Club pre-sales begin Wednesday, March 21st at 10am.
With combined album sales of almost 200 million, KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE are more than just iconic; they remain today as the dominant powerhouses of rock music tallying 30+ chart-topping hits, countless sold out tours and awards and accolades from around the world. Known for their elaborate and spectacular stage shows, each band plans to give fans the ultimate summer concert experience with the most impressive lighting and sound production ever and their signature over-the-top pyrotechnics. This is the first time KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE will share a stage since 1982.
These veterans of the music business are still at the height of their popularity. KISS is the juggernaut of them all, with 3,000 licensed merchandise products, including the KISS golf course in Las Vegas and a new album. KISS has broken box office records set by The Beatles and Elvis. MÖTLEY CRÜE is the first rock band in history to have just completed an epic sold-out Las Vegas residency at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. The band is best known for continuing to reinvent not only their live show (with mind blowing elements such as Tommy Lee’s 360 drum roller coaster) and music (brand new song due out this spring), but remain on the cutting edge via social media interaction. MÖTLEY CRÜE’s New York Times bestselling book The Dirt is currently being adapted into a major motion picture. Last month, the band was featured in one of the highest rated Super Bowl ads of all time for the KIA Optima.
For tickets & VIP packages, including opportunities to meet KISS and MÖTLEY CRÜE, please visit www.KISSonline.com or www.Motley.com.
| July 6, 2012 | Sonisphere Festival | Knebworth | ENDED | BUY NOW | |
| July 20, 2012 | Jiffy Lube Live | Bristow | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| July 21, 2012 | Farm Bureau Live | Virginia Beach | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| July 22, 2012 | Time Warner Cable Music Pavilion | Raleigh | 3/21/12 | 3/12/12 | 3/24/12 |
| July 24, 2012 | Aaron’s Amphitheater at Lakewood | Atlanta | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| July 25, 2012 | Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre | Charlotte | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| July 27, 2012 | Cruzan Amphitheatre | West Palm Beach | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| July 28, 2012 | 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheater | Tampa | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| July 31, 2012 | Oak Mountain Amphitheatre | Pelham | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| August 3, 2012 | Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion | Woodlands | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| August 4, 2012 | Gexa Energy Paviliion | Dallas | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 7, 2012 | Hard Rock Casino Presents: The Pavilion | Albuquerque | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 8, 2012 | Comfort Dental Amphitheater | Englewood | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 10, 2012 | Ashley Furniture Home Store Pavilion | Phoenix | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| August 11, 2012 | Mandalay Bay Arena | Las Vegas | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 12, 2012 | Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre | Chula Vista | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 14, 2012 | Verizon Wireless Amphitheater | Irvine | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 16, 2012 | Sleep Train Pavilion | Concord | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| August 18, 2012 | White River Amphitheatre | Auburn | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 19, 2012 | Sleep Country Amphitheater | Ridgefield | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 24, 2012 | Rock Jam | Grand Junction | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 26, 2012 | BOK Center | Tulsa | 3/21/12 | TBD | 3/24/12 |
| August 27, 2012 | Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre | Maryland Heights | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 29, 2012 | Minnesota State Fair | Minneapolis | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| August 31, 2012 | Riverbend Music Center | Cincinnati | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 1, 2012 | Klipsch Music Center | Noblesville | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 2, 2012 | First Niagara Pavilion | Burgettstown | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 4, 2012 | Bridgestone Arena | Nashville | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 5, 2012 | DTE Energy Music Theatre | Clarkston | 3/12/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 7, 2012 | First Midwest Bank Amphitheatre | Tinley Park | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 8, 2012 | Alpine Valley Music Theater | East Troy | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 11, 2012 | Allegan County Fair | Allegan | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 12, 2012 | Blossom Music Center | Cuyahoga Falls | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 13, 2012 | Molson Amphitheatre | Toronto | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 15, 2012 | Darien Lake PAC | Darien Lake | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 16, 2012 | Comcast Center | Mansfield | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 18, 2012 | Toyota Pavilion | Scranton | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 19, 2012 | Susquehanna Bank Center | Camden | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/24/12 |
| September 21, 2012 | PNC Bank Arts Center | Holmdel | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 22, 2012 | Nikon at Jones Beach | Wantagh | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
| September 23, 2012 | Comcast Theater | Hartford | 3/21/12 | 3/21/12 | 3/23/12 |
0 KISS Mannequins on eBay
Just in Time for X-Mas you can get your very own KISS Mannequin……..
You wanted the best and now’s your chance to own the best. Avid KISS collectors Jae Connor and Johnny McLaughin of Electric Lotus Tattoo have decided to unearth this full set of very rare KISS mannequins. These one of a kind mannequins originally came from Fat Vinnie Gonzales, who at one time had the largest collection of KISS memorabilia in the world. The mannequins were made in 1976 and came directly from the Aucoin Management warehouse. One recalls that not only was these from the Aucoin warehouse, but that the band members themselves actually worked on these mannequins, assembling and hand painting their own faces.
All 4 of these mannequins are full sized and are extraordinarily life like. All of the faces have been molded from the actual band members and have exceptionally detailed make-up. All 4 mannequins are dressed up in the bands DESTROYER Costumes. They have been seen at numerous KISS Expos and conventions in the early 1990’s and the Gene mannequin appears in the documentary KISS MY ASS.
Gary Danko, the owner of Rainbow Rockatorium who owned the mannequins from 1991 to 1993 gives a detailed interview about the KISS mannequins, the making of and overall history behind the mannequins at this location. http://kissmannequins.com/
These truly unique collectors memorabilia are currently on bid at Ebay until December 19th. Below is the links to each mannequin.
Ace
Paul
Peter
Gene
7 Vie’s Verses – The 2012 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame Nominees Were Announced And Guess Who Was Missing?
The latest Rock and Roll Hall of Fame nominees have been announced. I was not upset with this year’s list, which included the Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Beastie Boys on a return ballot, along with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts, Guns N Roses, The Cure, and Faces. All of those bands had some critical claim to the way that rock music was shaped. So while this year’s nominees are solid, there is still one glaring omission yet again—Kiss.
This notable omission is simply ridiculous. Not only is the Hall of Fame ignoring one of the greatest rock acts of the 20th century (for the twelfth year in a row), they are also insulting Kiss fans everywhere and, by extension, rock music fans.
Putting aside my personal biases, I decided to research the qualifications to enter the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame, who makes such decisions, and how many acts are allowed to be nominated in one particular year. I wanted to learn, first hand, if Kiss truly deserves to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame.
First up is the initial qualification to be inducted into the hall. This comes from the Hall of Fame’s own website and states the following: “One of the foundations many functions, is to recognize the contributions of those who have had a significant impact on the evolution, development, and perpetuation of rock and roll by inducting them into the Hall of Fame.”
Other criteria are:
- 25 years must have passed since the release of the artists first album
- Unquestionable musical excellence
- Musical influence on other artists
- Length and depth of career and body of work
Without a doubt, Kiss meets all of these qualifications. Obviously they make the time qualification (their first record was released in 1974). They have made a significant impact on the evolution, development, and perpetuation of rock and roll. Kiss led the way for an innovative live stage show. Their live act was the stuff of fantasy before Kiss came along and showed every other band what a live performance should be like.
Then they went ahead and changed the world of music by showing how a live album should be done. Prior to Kiss bands did not release live records. It was unheard of—they wouldn’t sell. Kiss forever changed the way that music is heard and now, every band has a live record, some as their second release.
As for musical influence on other artists, let’s examine the following: Red Hot Chili Peppers have stated they were influenced by Kiss. Guns N Roses have stated that they were influenced by Kiss. Looking at bands that are already in the Hall, Aerosmith was influenced by Kiss. Metallica have stated numerous times what an effect Kiss had on their music. Van Halen was discovered by Kiss (or at least a member of Kiss). So it’s clear that Kiss had musical influence on other artists—including artists that are in the Hall of Fame themselves.
As far as “unquestionable music excellence” goes, look at their album sales. After the Beatles, no other band has more gold and platinum albums than Kiss. Obviously fans thought their music was excellent. If the rating is determined by chart position, Kiss had 10 studio albums and 6 live albums that were in the top 25 US albums. 16 albums in the top 25 is a lot more than most of the performers currently in the hall have.
Seeing as how Kiss meets all the qualifications to be inducted into the Hall Of Fame, let’s take a look at the people who are doing the nominating. What makes these people so qualified to determine who should be inducted into the Hall of Fame? Again, from the hall’s own website:
“The Foundation’s nominating committee, composed of rock and roll historians, select nominees each year in the Performer’s category. Ballots are then sent to an international voting body of more than 500 rock experts.” Performers have to receive more than 50% of the vote to be inducted and usually 5 to 7 performers are inducted each year.
Simply stated, the nominating committee determines who is put on the ballot, and that committee is made up of “rock historians.” And what, pray tell, does it take to be a rock historian? It’s not as if there is a degree in rock music history (or if there is, I’ve never heard of it). Perhaps it is safest to define a rock historian as someone who studies the history of rock music and provides abundant knowledge on the subject. If that is true, or even close, how could these “historians” not nominate Kiss for the Hall of Fame? Is this a personal vendetta? What gives?
Sadly, Kiss’ omission from The Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame is annoying and confusing. How could a band with this much history, this much influence on other musicians, this much gold and platinum in their catalog, not be in the Hall of Fame? It makes no sense to me. Love them or hate them, the facts remain…Kiss is Hall of Fame material. When will the “historians” see that?
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5 Vie’s Verses – The 10 Most Uncelebrated Classic Kiss Songs
Every band that has been around for a long period of time falls into a similar trap. There is too much material to be celebrated. Certain songs rise to the top, other songs sink to the bottom, but then there are those songs that get lost in the mix. These are songs that are spectacular, but never get the attention they deserve.
One of the most notable bands that suffer from this problem is Kiss. They have a vast collection of hits and potential hits, but only their best known songs get celebrated. Turn on any rock radio station (be it satellite or terrestrial) and you’re bound to hear “Rock And Roll All Night,” “Detroit Rock City,” or “Beth” after a couple of hours. However, the Kiss catalog is much deeper than that. It’s also deeper than the songs the band plays in concert. There are several amazing Kiss songs that have been forgotten or ignored over the years, which is criminal.
Here now are the top 10 Kiss songs that should get more exposure than they do.
10. Then She Kissed Me (From Love Gun)
I know this is not a true Kiss song, but a cover of The Crystals 1963 hit “Then He Kissed Me.” However, for innovation alone, this song deserves more attention. Kiss took a hit pop song from the sixties sung by a female about a boy she loved, and turned it into a rocking song from the boy’s perspective. Ace Frehley’s guitar solo shreds, and that alone makes this a note worthy song. Paul’s vocals sound exceptional and overall, “Then She Kissed Me” is a fun tune. It definitely deserves more recognition than it has ever received.
9. Saint And Sinner (From Creatures Of The Night)
A dark, deep, Gene Simmons sung song, “Saint And Sinner” is one of the greatest gifts that Creatures Of The Night gave Kiss fans. Sure “I Love It Loud,’ “I Still Love You,” and “War Machine” got all of the attention, but it’s “Saint And Sinner” that stole the show. With an incredible riff, spectacular drums by Eric Carr, some of the best bass lines of Gene’s career and vocals that he could no longer capture, “Saint And Sinner” is a mesmerizing song.
8. Little Caesar (From Hot In The Shade)
The first (original) song that featured Eric Carr’s vocals, “Little Caesar” was on track to be a huge hit. The band performed it a few times during the Hot In The Shade tour. It appeared that Kiss was going to keep the song in as a staple of the next tour, but then Eric Carr passed away and “Little Caesar” slipped into oblivion in all of the aftermath. However, this is a song that should not be forgotten. Eric Carr’s vocals are superb and with Simmons backing him up the harmony is brilliant. “Little Caesar” is one of the best songs on Hot In The Shade and one of the best Kiss songs to come out in the 80s.
7. Almost Human (From Love Gun)
Another dark Kiss song featuring Gene Simmons on lead vocals, “Almost Human” is one of the most different songs that Kiss has ever recorded. It’s also one of the most under-celebrated songs in the entire Kiss catalog. That is a real shame. With a chorus that bores into the brain, some amazing guitar work from Ace Frehley, and very original lyrics, “Almost Human” is a song that is always overlooked when mentioning the great tunes of the Kiss catalog. Gene’s voice never sounded better, and it’s this song that really rounds out Love Gun, adding to the overall success of the record.
6. Journey Of A Thousand Years (From Psycho Circus)
Perhaps one of the least recognized songs in Kisstory is “Journey Of A Thousand Years.” This is another dark, Gene Simmons sung song. It has an amazing musical arrangement and Gene’s voice was in top form during the recording of this brilliant song. I’ve always thought this was one of the best songs on Psycho Circus and I’ve never understood why Kiss has all but ignored this track since it was recorded. It has the dark elements that great Kiss songs should contain, amazing guitar riffs, and a hook that fans could chant over and over. “Journey Of A Thousand Years” is a decidedly different type of Kiss song, but that’s what makes it so great.
5. Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em (From Rock And Roll Over)
“Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em” could be one of the best Kiss songs of the 70s. Reminiscent of “Ladies Room” (from the same album), “Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em” is a Gene sung ode to the women he’s loved. It’s definitely a song that only a man could be passionate about. However, with a terrific, powerful beat, vocals about loving women and moving on, and high energy throughout, “Love ‘Em And Leave ‘Em” is Kiss at their finest. If the band would play this song in concert just once, I would feel that my life as a Kiss fan is complete.
4. Uh! All Night (From Asylum)
How on Earth can you have an anthem about working hard all day in order to have sex all night and never play it in concert? This has baffled me since “Uh! All Night” was released and then quickly forgotten. While performed during the Asylum tour, the song has not been touched since. It was never included on any collection of hits, it’s never been played in concert since the Asylum tour, and it never even gets mentioned (by the band and fans alike). I think this would be one of the most requested Kiss songs to be performed live. It’s an anthem, which Kiss is great at writing, it’s got a powerful, sing-along chorus, and it embraces a timeless theme in rock and roll….sex. Why hasn’t this song been more celebrated?
3. Pledge Allegiance To The State Of Rock And Roll (From Psycho Circus)
Kiss has always been able to write incredible rock anthems. From “Rock And Roll All Nite” to “God Gave Rock And Roll To You” they’ve always put the message in the music. “Pledge Allegiance To The State Of Rock And Roll” is no exception, but it’s not as celebrated as other Kiss anthems. After the Psycho Circus tour, the band basically forgot about this song. It’s never been included on any hits records (except 20th Century Masters Volume 3) and it never gets pulled out for concerts. Such a powerful anthem would have the crowd on their feet immediately, and Kiss should think about opening the show with this song on their next tour.
2. I (Believe In Me ) (From Music From The Elder)
An amazing song that finds Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons trading vocals, “I” would have been a huge hit if it wasn’t released on an album that received no promotion and was never toured behind. While most critics and fans wrote Music From The Elder off as experimental, there are a lot of great gems on the album. “I” is the greatest gem of them all and needs to be enjoyed more often. If Kiss could pull this song out for their next concert, it would be a better anthem than “Rock And Roll All Night.”
1. Sweet Pain (From Destroyer)
This is one of the greatest Kiss songs ever recorded on the best album they’ve ever recorded. Yet, “Sweet Pain” gets zero recognition. The only time the band has ever attempted to play it in concert was during their 1995 acoustic convention tour. This was when Kiss would take requests on stage from the fans in attendance. The band was able to get through one verse and the chorus. Every other song from Destroyer has been performed and recorded live except “Sweet Pain.” With an amazing opening riff by Ace Frehley, a tantalizing, addictive chorus, and powerful music throughout, “Sweet Pain” is the one Kiss song that needs to be celebrated more than it is.
These songs deserve more exposure. Hopefully Kiss will think about dusting some of them off for the next tour and give them their due. For most of these songs, it’s a due that is long overdue.
0 MOONDANCE JAM ANNOUNCES FIRST ACT FOR 2011 FESTIVAL
The Moondance Jam, the country’s pre-eminent classic rock festival, has announced the final line-up for this year’s festival, which takes place July 13-16, 2011. Legendary glam rock band KISS, along with Three Doors Down and Stone Temple Pilots, will serve as the headliners for this year’s three-day party. Tickets are available now at www.moondancejam.com or by calling 1-877-MOONJAM.
The final running order for each day is listed below:
Wednesday July 13( pre-Jam Party)
11:00 pm-Hairball
9:00 pm-Mountain Ash
7:00 pm-Cain
5:00 pm-Bad Animals
Thursday July 14
11:00 pm-Three Doors Down
9:00 pm-.38 Special
7:00 pm-Great White
5:00 pm-Candlebox
3:00 pm-Cracker
Friday July 15
11:00 pm-KISS
9:00 pm-Paul Rodgers
7:00 pm-Eddie Money
5:00 pm-The Outlaws
3:00 pm-Belfast Cowboys
Saturday July 16
11:00 pm-Stone Temple Pilots
9:00 pm-Joan Jett and the Blackhearts
7:00 pm-Fuel
5:00 pm-Burton Cummings
3:00pm-Thundherstruck
Tickets are now available in a variety of packages. Concert goers can purchase Rockstar All Access, three-day VIP, three-day general admission, weekend packages and single day admission, as well as camping sites and parking passes by contacting the Jam office in Walker.
The Moondance Jam has been held at the same location in Walker since 1992. This year marks the 20th edition of the festival, which was started by resident Bill Bieloh. This year’s event will serve as a tribute to Bill, who passed away last September. The Moondance Jam and its sister festival, Moondance Jamming Country Fest, help bring thousands of music fans to the Walker area every summer. Its bucolic location, situated near a huge lake on a site located three hours northwest of Minneapolis, houses thousands of camping sites during the festivals, and has been cited by many as to why they return year after year to Walker for the shows.
0 Ever Wonder What Happened to Former KISS Guitarist Vinnie Vincent?
I have been wondering for quite some time where former KISS guitarist disappeared to. According to TMZ.com, Vinnie Vincent — the guitarist who famously took Ace Frehley’s place in the band KISS — was arrested today on charges of aggravated assault.
Vincent (real name Vinnie Cusano) was busted by the Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department in Tennessee and held on $10,000 bond. He posted and was released at 11:27 AM.
Vincent was known as the Ankh Warrior during his time with the band.
2 Hard Rock Hideout Salutes the Fallen Rockers of April 5th!
April 5th is a horrible day for hard rock. On this day, we lost not one, but four hard rock greats that I will not soon forget.
Cozy Powell (Black Sabbath) 1998, Kurt Cobain (Nirvana) 1994, Mark St. John (KISS) 2007, and Layne Staley (Alice in Chains) 2002 all died on this fate filled day.
Far too may rockers have died on this day! Their incredible legacies have left behind some awesome tunes for us to enjoy. Check out Black Sabbath’s “Headless Cross”, “Heaven’s on Fire” from KISS, “Man in The Box” from Alice in Chains and “Lithium” from Nirvana in the videos below.
Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available. Vodpod videos no longer available.0 BOOYAH’S SMASH HIT SOCIAL APP NIGHTCLUB CITY AND ICONIC ROCK BAND KISS JOIN FORCES TO BRING FANS A FIRST-OF-ITS-KIND LIVE CONCERT
KISS brings traditional media and new media together to broadcast ‘The Hottest Show on Earth’
In a music event that will mark the first time a band of historic magnitude has streamed a free concert to millions through a social game, KISS (www.KISSonline.com) will broadcast their final North American date of their hugely-successful 2010 Hottest Show on Earth concert tour live in Booyah’s Nightclub City (http://apps.facebook.com/nightclubcity), a wildly-popular, music-centric social game and marketing platform for musicians on Facebook. The live concert will bring new and traditional media together by simultaneously airing on sites KROQ.com in Los Angeles and CBS Radio rock station websites nationwide via Ustream on Saturday, September 25, where KISS is headlining the Epicenter Twenty Ten Festival in Fontana, California.
Fans of KISS will be able to watch the iconic band play for FREE by simply logging on to the Nightclub City application in Facebook or by going to the KISS Ustream site. Those who view the concert in Nightclub City will be given exclusive KISS branded virtual goods to use in the game. In addition, Nightclub City players will have access to a dedicated KISS playlist in the game, featuring the top KISS songs of all-time.
Nightclub City is a digital game based around real-world music, and the landmark KISS event represents Booyah’s platform as a real-world gaming leader blending interactive entertainment with social apps while blurring the lines between the real and digital worlds.
“We’re celebrating the end of a monster tour by giving everyone a chance to relive some of what they heard and saw at the show. Unfortunately, we will not be responsible for computers melting,” said KISS co-founder Paul Stanley.
“We have always believed in pushing the boundaries…in giving the fans bang for the buck…in going where no band has gone before,” added KISS co-founder Gene Simmons. “This one’s gonna rock big time!”
The dynamic world of Nightclub City is powered by Booyah’s vision of fusing elements from the real and digital worlds to create new forms of interactive entertainment. Since opening its club doors in April 2010, more than 8.6 million active players have joined the party per month, and experienced new music within the social game setting and created special experiences that go beyond the realm of the digital world.
Those who watch the KISS concert through Nightclub City will be rewarded with special KISS- branded virtual goods. The broadcast starts at xxx on Saturday, September 25 at http://apps.facebook.com/nightclubcity.
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About KISS
KISS, the legendary American rock band formed in New York City in 1972, is one of the most influential bands in the history of rock and roll. Their career milestones are staggering. KISS is one of America’s top gold-record champions who recorded 37 albums over 36 years and has sold more than 80 million albums worldwide. Over thirty years of record-breaking tours around the globe include high-profile appearances at Super Bowl XXXIII, the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, the 2005 Rockin’ The Corps concert dedicated to our troops in Iraq and Afghanistan, and, most recently, the 2009 finale of American Idol that boasted 30 million viewers.
The KISS legacy continues to grow generation after generation. The unparalleled devotion and loyalty of the KISS Army to the “Hottest Band in the World” is a striking testament to the band’s unbreakable bond with its fans. In 2009, KISS was nominated for induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Sonic Boom, KISS’ first album in 11 years and produced by Paul Stanley, is available exclusively at Wal-Mart, Walmart.com and Sam’s Club. For additional information on KISS, visit www.KISSonline.com.
About Booyah
Booyah, headquartered in San Francisco, Calif., is a leading social web and mobile entertainment company. Booyah’s mission is to be the singular destination for real-world entertainment. The entire development team draws its creativity from the consumer web and social gaming space and highly respected interactive entertainment studios, including Blizzard Entertainment, Activision, EA and Insomniac Games. Booyah is financed by Accel Partners and Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers’ iFund. Learn more at www.booyah.com.
Hard Rock Hideout 