The KISSFAQ - July '07 News

This "News" page generally only relates to matters of interest to the KISSFAQ. There's no need to replicate news that can be seen on other KISS websites. If you use information appearing on this or any other KISSFAQ page, in print (fanzines) or online (directly quoted or rewritten), please have the courtesy to say where it came from. If printing in fanzines, I'd love a copy sent to the KISSFAQ PO Box. Should you want official announcements please visit the band's official website at: KISSONLINE.COM.

Monday, July 30, 2007 7:22:03 PM - KISSFAQ Ebay Auctions: Videos, Tribute albums, + More!

KISSFAQ Ebay Auctions this week include videos, tribute albums, + more! Check 'em out, HERE

Monday, July 30, 2007 4:59:21 PM - Paul Fine...

Paul Stanley has posted the following message on his website: "To All My Friends And Fans,

I wanted to let all of you know that I AM ABSOLUTELY FINE!

I'm going to the gym as usual, painting as usual and will be going into the recording studio this week. Like many, I have had a rapid heart beat condition most of my life and I never have had any type of restrictions. When I've had an episode, although momentarily disrupting and taxing, it has no residual effect. This is nothing new and my doctors have known about it.

In short, It doesn't change, hasn't changed and won't change my life.

To make it clear...

I WILL BE AT ROCK & ROLL FANTASY CAMP IN NY..
I WILL BE AT THE WENTWORTH ART GALLERY SHOW in Des Peres, MO. and anything else that's on schedule.
I'm stoked and looking forward to it all.

Thanks for the literally thousands of calls and e-mails from all of you. You all mean the world to me.

Now ONWARD!

Paul"

Monday, July 30, 2007 2:59:00 PM - Countdown To KISSology II (Part 4)

Counting down the release of KISSology Vol. II on August 14, the KISSFAQ will be detailing some of contents currently expected to be included on the set (including the bonus discs).

Part 4, which was planned before news came of his passing, is the stunning and hilarious "Tomorrow Show with Tom Snyder" which was originally broadcast as a Halloween special on October 31, 1979. This broadcast saw a totally out of control Peter Criss and particularly Ace Frehley steal the show from the business-like Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons. They could only glare are the two Bad Boys as the interview went steadily downhill into legend.

The full interview runs some 25 minutes, but it is not clear how much will be included on KISSOLOGY. The segement is described as "The Tomorrow Show With Tom Snyder (Excerpt, 10/31/79)." The introduction, and a brief part of the interview with the band, is featured in the above clip (which is from an "unofficial" VHS, not the actual KISSology disc) - enough to give you a taste of the atmosphere of the show and pay tribute to Tom.

Of interest to fans also is the Tom hosted an unmasked Peter Criss the following year making one of his first appearances out of make-up after departing the band. Tom truely has a chapter in KISStory!

Click to order KISSology Vol. II from Amazon, HERE.

Monday, July 30, 2007 5:14:28 AM - KISSOLOGY II Packaging

Pictures of the packaging of "KISSOLOGY VOL. II" via byfo.

Monday, July 30, 2007 5:14:28 AM - Tom Snyder RIP

Tom Snyder "passed away Sunday in San Francisco from complications of leukemia" (AP) aged 71. Tom hosted the late-night television show "Tomorrow with Tom Snyder" throughout the 1970s and 80s. KISS famously appeared on this show, parts to be featured on KISSOLOGY VOL. II in 1979 with an out of control Ace and Peter.

Sunday, July 29, 2007 8:13:46 AM - The Soboda Incident Coverage

Material is starting to surface from the Friday show at Soboda Casino performed without Paul Stanley. First (above) is Gene announcing to the crowd what had happened and asking if KISS should perform. The original was posted on YouTube, HERE. Thanks to ToxikVideo for sharing.

The whole show is also now circulating, here's a sample from "Let Me Go, Rock 'N' Roll."

And finally, a DVD of the soundcheck, which Paul Stanley did participate in before taking ill is being sold on Ebay, HERE.

MOST IMPORTANTLY: Paul is at home now. He posted the following message on his website: "During sound check yesterday, my heart spontaneously jumped to 190 plus beats per minute where it stayed for over an hour necessitating paramedics to start an IV and give me a shot to momentarily stop my heart and get it into a normal pattern. Not knowing if this episode was life threatening made it even more exhausting. After consulting with both the paramedics and a cardiologist at Cedar Sinai, they confirmed my worst fear. They said that I would put myself at risk if I tried to do the show.

I’m very proud of Gene, Tommy and Eric for carrying on without me. I apologize to anyone I disappointed and I’ll make it up to you when I see you again.

Paul".

That is more important than any multimedia, though it's obvious that KISS fans would want to see/hear a historic event in KISStory while wishing the best for Paul.

Saturday, July 28, 2007 8:02:14 AM - Paul Stanley

It's now being reported that Paul Stanley's absence from last night's KISS show was the result of a "cardiac event," rather than the initially suggested throat problems. Furthermore, it was Paul who insisted that the show go on. Whatever the circumstances surrounding the show, the only thing that has any importance whatsoever is Paul's health. This has nothing to do with him being the heart and soul of KISS, but him being a human being, father, husband, son. The KISSFAQ wishes him a speedy and full recovery.

Saturday, July 28, 2007 8:02:14 AM - KISS Concertology 2003-7 Updated

KISSFAQ's "KISS Concertology 2003-7" has been updated to reflect the end of the "Hit 'n' Run" show series. Download the Adobe Acrobat PDF, HERE. Several other additions and modifications have been made...

Friday, July 27, 2007 10:04:31 PM - KISS Perform As A Trio!

Paul Stanley was taken ill prior to KISS' show at Soboba Casino Arena in San Jacinto, CA, tonight. With Paul apparently hospitalized KISS performed as a trio with a Gene Simmons set:

Deuce
Cold Gin
Calling Dr. Love
Christeen Sixteen
Nothin' To Lose (Eric Singer lead vocals)
I Love It Loud
Goin' Blind
Watchin' You
She
Parasite
Bass Solo (Gene spits blood)
God Of Thunder (w/ Eric Singer Drum Solo)
Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll
Black Diamond (Eric Singer lead vocals)
Rock And Roll All Nite

This is KISS' first performance as a trio - the 1982 appearance without Ace was lip-synched and not a concert, though several times through-out KISStory Gene and Paul have covered for each other when they've had vocal issues - most notably Osaka '97. Additionally, Paul, who was suffering from heat exhaustion sat out a couple of songs during the West Palm Beach show in 2004...

KISSFAQ Says: Hope Paul is OK. Good job Gene, Eric, and Tommy!

Friday, July 27, 2007 4:30:35 PM - KISSOLOGY Trailer...

View the official online trailer for the new KISSOLOGY VOL. II DVD, HERE

Friday, July 27, 2007 12:37:05 PM - KISSOLOGY Bonus Discs...

Best Buy will be carrying The "Ritz 8/13/88 - The Crazy Nights Tour" as their exclusive bonus DVD when KISSology is released on August 14.

That seems to indicate that Walmart shall receiveth Landover, MD July 8, 1979, and everywhere else Budokan Hall, Tokyo, Japan Apr. 22, 1988

Wednesday, July 25, 2007 11:02:38 PM - Kisco: KISS Rocks Cisco Event...

KISS performed a shortened set at Cisco's annual "Customer Appreciation Event" tonight in San Juan Capistrano, CA. Conference passes ranged from $1295-2095 for the full Cisco 2007 conference. Gene did spit blood at this event, the first time in 2007 he's done so prior to the performance of "God Of Thunder." KISS' set consisted of:

Detroit Rock City
Deuce
Makin' Love
Calling Dr. Love
Lick It Up
I Love It Loud
Firehouse
Do You Love Me?
Got To Choose
Watchin' You
Shout It Out Loud
God Of Thunder
Love Gun
Black Diamond
Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll
God Gave Rock 'N Roll To You II
Rock And Roll All Nite

KISS play what is currently their final scheduled 2007 show on Friday at Soboba Casino Arena in San Jacinto, CA. However, in an interview published in the Forest Grove News Times it is suggested that Tommy Thayer alluded to a Spring 2008 tour, commenting, "We still fill huge arenas, and it's still fun, so why not." Time will tell...

Tuesday, July 24, 2007 12:51:06 PM - Peter Criss' "One For All" released today...

Click Link to order from Amazon!

Peter Criss' "One For All" released today. Gold stickered "Limited Edition" copies available through Best Buy are "hand signed." Read KISSFAQ's review, HERE.

Monday, July 23, 2007 6:59:45 PM - Kewadin Set Intrigue...

"Roadhead" has posted a picture of KISS' setlist and reminder lyrics to "All American Man" from the stage at Kewadin Casino on July 20. Of note is the songs included that weren't performed:

Detroit Rock City
Deuce
All American Man
Makin' Love
Calling Dr. Love
Lick It Up
I Love It Loud
C'mon And Love Me
Do You Love Me?
Shout It Out Loud
Firehouse
Got To Choose
Christine Sixteen
Hotter Than Hell
Watchin' You
Parasite
God Of Thunder
Love Gun
King Of The Night Time World
Heaven's On Fire
Rock And Roll All Nite
Black Diamond
Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll
God Gave Rock 'N Roll To You II

Apart from the songs not performed, the set also had a different running order. It's not clear why some songs were not performed, perhaps due environmental or time concerns, or whatever. Interesting photo! Thanks "roadhead"!!

Monday, July 23, 2007 9:42:05 AM - Eric Singer on Glenn Hughes Anthology

An Eric Singer related recording will be included on the Glenn Hughes anthology "Voice of Rock - This Time Around: An Anthology 1970-2007" being released via Sanctuary Records in the UK on September 3. "No Stranger To Love" was originally recorded for the Tony Iommi/Black Sabbath album "Seventh Star" in 1985 and was one of Eric's first professional recording credits.

Monday, July 23, 2007 12:00:00 AM - Countdown To KISSology II (Part 3)

Counting down the release of KISSology Vol. II on August 14, the KISSFAQ will be detailing some of contents currently expected to be included on the set (including the bonus discs).

Part 3 is the long-circulating Rio De Janerio show which is partially included on disc III of the set. Filmed Rio's Maracana Stadium in front of an audience of over 125,000, this June 18, 1982 was one of the last the band performed in make-up until 1996 (hopefully I got the date of the clip right as I can never tell when it comes to video!).

Sadly, the whole show has never circulate, but what is available is an incredible document of an important part of KISS' history. In addition to the above details the show was the first band ever played in South America. C.K. Lendt details much of the fiasco surrounding this tour in his excellent "KISS and Sell: The Making of a Supergroup."

KISS fans have had an official taste of this material before: "I Love It Loud" was included on the KISS Exposed video. This editted version of the show was broadcast on Brazilian TV following the band's visit, and re-broadcast in 2004. While many fans have this, hopefully the version on KISSology is upgraded, with special attention to the audio which suffers from the scale of the venue. But leave that audience track alone! They were mad! "Creatures Of The Night" is featured in the clip above (which is from an "unofficial" DVD, not the actual KISSology disc).

The full set of the show was (only those shows maked in red will be on the bonus disc):
01. Creatures Of The Night
02. Detroit Rock City
03. Cold Gin
04. Calling Dr. Love
05. Firehouse
06. I Want You
07. I Love It Loud
08. War Machine
09. Love Gun
10. God Of Thunder
11. I Still Love You
12. Black Diamond
13. Strutter
14. Rock And Roll All Nite

Click to order KISSology Vol. II from Amazon, HERE.

Saturday, July 21, 2007 10:39:35 PM - All American Man

KISS fan gappvembe made video of KISS' first ever live performance of "All American Man" available for other fans to get a taste of. KISSFAQ has re-encoded to smaller size (from 312Mb) so enjoy! Thanks gappvembe!!

Friday, July 20, 2007 9:15:11 PM - KISS offer staggering setlist...

KISS returned to the stage with their show in Sault Ste. Marie tonight. The "2005-7 Tour Stats" page is being updated with new show details from this "Hit 'N Run" series of shows... Show #1 highlights included:

1. "All American Man" performed live for the first time - This song was briefly attempted during some shows on the 1995 Konvention "Unplugged" tour. It had never previously been fully performed by KISS in concert, though bits have been included in KISS' sound-checks (for collectors, note Erfurt '99).
2. "Hotter Than Hell" returns to the set, though it was partially performed as part of a medley at Fukuoka, Japan on July 20, 2006.
3. "Calling Dr. Love" returns to the set.

Full set (nice job Norm for the texting and Cincy for sharing):
Detroit Rock City / Deuce / Makin' Love / All American Man / Calling Dr. Love / Lick It Up / I Love It Loud / Firehouse / Do You Love Me? / C'mon And Love Me / Hotter Than Hell / Watchin' You / Shout It Out Loud / God Of Thunder / Got To Choose / Love Gun / Black Diamond / Let Me Go, Rock 'N Roll / God Gave Rock 'N Roll To You II / Rock And Roll All Nite

Friday, July 20, 2007 7:04:55 AM - KISS Appreciation Day in Sault Ste. Marie (MI)

(From: sooeveningnews) “It may be the biggest event in the history of Sault Ste. Marie,” said Mayor Tony Bosbous of the coming invasion scheduled for Friday. Since early April when tickets first went on sale at the Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie The KISS Army has mobilized in full force with over 8,000 tickets sold by Wednesday morning. A spokesperson at DreamMaker's Theater said tickets were still available for the outdoor concert and the weather appears as though it will be perfect for Friday's concert.

“So far it looks good,” she said adding the forecast indicates it will be “Nice and hot.” Bosbous said the influx of KISS fans coming to Sault Ste. Marie might only be rivaled by one of the early I-500 Snowmobile Races in attendance. “It will certainly provide a tremendous economic benefit to the motels and restaurants,” he said commending Kewadin Casino for putting together an event of this stature.

Underscoring the significance of the event, Mayor Bosbous proclaimed Friday to be KISS Appreciation Day here in Sault Ste. Marie and while unable to attend the concert has assigned a willing representative in the form of Commissioner Ray Bauer to take his place. “I was completely surprised when Tony asked me to do this,” said Bauer, who will present the band with a Key to the City of Sault Ste. Marie at some point during their visit.

Bosbous noted this is a pretty rare honor. “It's significant,” he said. “We kind of guard those.” Having attended a number of rock concerts and having a good feel for those who will be in attendance Bauer admitted he would keep his comments to a minimum.

“No one wants to hear a politician talk,” he said of those who will gather for this event. Bauer recalled his days as an assistant program director with a North Carolina radio station where he spent some time backstage with the band in 1990 - procuring a hat autographed by Gene Simmons during the memorable visit. Bauer also recalled that management was reluctant to play a lot of KISS music well into the 1990s, but he still kicked off each weekend with “Rock and Roll All Nite.” “I have seen, over the period of my career, a lot more acceptance of their music,” he said.

In proclaiming Friday, July 20 as KISS Appreciation Day the City of Sault Ste. Marie listed a number of reasons for bestowing this honor including:
- The contributions Kiss has made to the world of music since releasing its first album in 1973.
- The sale of over 75 million albums worldwide.
- The band's dedication to its fans and its support of The United States Military.

Friday, July 20, 2007 7:04:55 AM - KISS' Hit 'N' Run commences tonight...

With KISS fan's voting "All American Man" the rare song they want performed the KISS Army mobilizes for a quick Hit 'N' Run of KISS summer shows. The brief summer tour starts tonight in Sault Ste. Marie (MI), and so far the atmosphere has been electric as anticipation builds. KISS haven't performed since last year's Chumash casino shows. KISS perform at Rock Fest 2007 in Cadott, Wisconsin tomorrow hitting the stage around 11pm. Eddie Trunk will MC the event. After the Cisco "Customer Appreciation" Event in Anaheim on the 25th, KISS close out the currently scheduled gigs with a show at Soboba Casino Arena in San Jacinto, CA on July 27. Bleacher seating is still available. Rock and roll all nite...

Friday, July 20, 2007 7:04:55 AM - Gene Simmons House of Horrors #1

Gene Simmons House of Horrors #1 is published 7/18/07. This is an advance review.

(From: comicpants.com by Dan Grendell) "Anthology comics are a tough package to sell. There’s no hook to grab the reader on every story besides the overall theme (if there even is one), so the quality of the writing and art is more important than ever, and with the variety of stories involved, there’s a good chance that only about half are going to connect with each reader on average- and that’s if you have a good book.

This one has several things going for it. Gene Simmons is a name people know, even if it isn’t for comics. Horror anthologies have a long, successful pedigree, going back decades and including greats like Tales From the Crypt, Creepy, The House of Mystery, and plenty of others. If there’s any modern anthology format that people are used to, it’s probably horror. Add to that IDW’s well-earned reputation for quality, with glossy, heavy paper stock and no ad interruption, and you have a recipe for a possible success.

This first issue should go a long way toward delivering that success. While not every story delivered for me, I thought they were all at least solid, and some stood out as great. Keeping with the traditions of horror anthologies, the issue is bookended by short bits by Gene Simmons as the ‘face’ of the book, a la the Crypt Keeper or Cain. From there it goes into a story by Leah Moore and John Reppion that shows that not all superstitions are wrong. I loved the art in this story, by Jeffrey Zornow, but the actual writing left me a little flat. Still, a cool read.

The next tale, by Tom Waltz (of Children of the Grave and now an editor at IDW), points out that there are more dangers in the burning oil fields of the Gulf than we expect. Tom’s a talented writer, especially when dealing with the military, and I enjoyed the environmental aspect of this one. Artist Esteve Polls delivers handily on the storytelling and his realistic style is top-notch. Following that is my favorite of the issue, a Chris Ryall bit about a discovered passage to Hell and the reluctant investigator that heads in. Ryall’s use of Dante was cool, and his captioned writing style here just worked, helping make it feel that much more isolated and inside the main character’s mind. The real sell for me was Steph Stamb’s art, though, delivering in spades on the mood Ryall created. Excellent.

Sean Taylor’s story, “Nymph”, was a classic horror story with a twist, in which an environmentalist comes face to face with a spirit of the Earth while searching for her missing husband. Creative and fun, it delivers. The final bit of fantasy doesn’t, so much. The artwork is cool, Grant Bond doing work that reminds me somewhat of Ted Naifeh on Death Jr., but the plot just didn’t really work for me. I had a hard time buying a connection between Crowley and what was in the girl’s basement, so it just failed. Finally, there’s a prose story by Nick Simmons, which I found to be perhaps a bit over-written but an interesting idea and one of the best parts of the issue.

Overall, though, I found this first issue to be well worth my time. There’s some imaginative, creative work being done here, by both artists and writers, and IDW has a good place for very non-standard horror here if they mine the right creators and stay away from standard tropes. The ten-dollar price tag will doubtless scare many away, but for 64 pages of solid comics with no ads, I think it’s worth it if you’re a horror fan.

Writers: Gene Simmons, Leah Moore, John Reppion, Tom Waltz, Chris Ryall, Sean Taylor, Dwight L. MacPherson, and Nick Simmons
Artists: Matt Busch, Jeffrey Zornow, Esteve Polls, Steph Stamb, Jon Alderink, and Grant Bond
Company: IDW Publishing"

Friday, July 20, 2007 5:09:42 AM - Peter Criss to purr on Rockline

Peter Criss is scheduled to appear on Rockline on Wednesday July 25. "Interviews with Criss are rare, let alone the opportunity to speak directly with Peter as ROCKLINE will allow, so take advantage of this occasion to hear the new CD and help us conduct the interview."

Friday, July 20, 2007 5:09:42 AM - Peter Criss movie credit

Peter Criss plays a part in the new movie "Frame Of Mind" which stars Chris Noth ("Law & Order" / "Sex and the City") and Vince Curatola ("The Sopranos"). Playing the character Mike, the movie is a "paranoid tale of a New Jersey police detective who stumbles into a far-reaching government conspiracy" based on new evidence concerning the 1963 Kennedy assassination. The screen play was written by Carl T. Evans and Charles Kipps (who was previously involved with Peter's solo album). No release date has been set.

Friday, July 20, 2007 5:09:42 AM - Paul Lynde 1976 Halloween Special DVD

Click picture to order...

The classic FULL 1976 Paul Lynde Halloween Special is coming to DVD on October 2, 2007. This DVD will feature the whole KISS appearance on the show, material that was not included on KISSOLOGY Vol. 1. "The Paul Lynde Halloween Special aired only once (on October 29, 1976) and featured a "Who's Who" of mid-'70s TV and film stars; Paul held everything together as the ringmaster of a circus that featured Margaret Hamilton (her only prime time TV appearance wearing the full outfit from The Wizard of Oz), Witchie Poo from H.R. Pufnstuf, Donnie and Marie (who had Paul as a regular on their series), Tim Conway, Billy Barty and in their first prime time TV appearance, KISS. They perform three songs but the on-stage conversation with KISS, Paul and Margaret Hamilton is priceless.

Special Features:
- Extensive photo scrapbook containing images from The Hollywood Squares, at home, family shots, young Paul. This includes large quantities of photos provided by his family and heirs.
- Three stage interactive trivia game based on questions asked on The Hollywood Squares with a bonus feature when consumer answers all 30- 60 questions correctly.
- Extensive quotes from Paul Lynde about family, entertainment, food and mental health Liner notes by producer and writer, Bob Booker."

KISS performed (lip-synhced) "Detroit Rock City," "Beth," and "King Of The Night Time World" during their appearance.

Friday, July 20, 2007 5:09:42 AM - Eric Singer roasts a banana...

(From: http://www.CCBanana.com/sludge/20questionsericsinger.htm) "Drummer Eric Singer was recently interviewed live onstage at the 21st annual NY/NJ Kiss Expo by rock & roll comic C.C. Banana. Part serious interview and part comedy roast, the exchange has been transcribed and is now available online. Topics include original Kiss drummer Peter Criss, Eric's numerous hirings and firings from the band and Ace Frehley's experimentations with Viagra. A few excerpts from the interview follow:

C.C. Banana: You first became part of the Kiss family by playing drums for Paul Stanley on his first solo tour in 1989. How did you get the gig and was there any talk at the time that you were being considered to fill the Kiss drum slot?

Eric Singer: Well, at that time I was in New York, recording an album with Badlands. They had the same management as the guy who played bass on Paul's solo tour, Dennis St. James... whose real name is actually Dennis Feldman. Why do Jewish guys in the music business always try to Americanize their names? Anyway, Dennis mentioned to the management that Paul Stanley was planning a solo tour and was in need of a drummer. Since by then I had already finished recording my Badlands tracks, they sent me over to the Kiss management office, which was literally around the corner from my hotel. There I met with Paul and gave him some of the CDs I'd played on. He actually ended up hiring me based solely on those credentials. Realistically, I had no reason to think I'd wind up drumming for Kiss because Eric Carr was still in the band at the time. The next year, Kiss did the Hot in the Shade Tour and it wasn't until the following year that Eric Carr became ill. That's when they had me play drums on God Gave Rock 'N' Roll To You for the Bill & Ted's Bogus Journey soundtrack. After that, they began considering me for the band and for their upcoming album, which ended up being Revenge.

C.C. Banana: In 1995, it was you who suggested to Gene and Paul that they should let Peter Criss sit in with the band at one of the official Kiss Konventions. This set off a chain of events that ultimately led to a reunion of the original Kiss lineup, causing you and Bruce Kulick to be fired from the group. Looking back, how badly did you want to kick your own ass for making that suggestion?

Eric Singer: Well, it was Gene and Paul who told me that Peter wanted to come down to the convention with his daughter. They wanted to know if I would be uncomfortable with that. I told them that not only would I not be uncomfortable, they should let Peter come up and play. That led to the taping of MTV Unplugged, which eventually led to the full reunion. But they still had no idea how things were going to play out with Ace and Peter. So if the reunion ultimately didn't work or if the tour was a flop, they already had the Carnival of Souls album in the can and they still had Bruce and me on retainer. That's why they kept us on the payroll, so they could just pick up where they left off. We were sort of a "Plan B." That part wasn't so bad because we were still getting paid while they were out doing the reunion tour.

C.C. Banana: Were they actually paying you enough to make it worth your while to sit around and do nothing while Kiss was on tour without you?

Eric Singer: Well, they were out there making millions while we were at home just collecting a paycheck! Until one day when I got a call from Gene... I think this was sometime in July 1996. He'd called to say that Kiss would soon be coming to L.A. to play The Forum and that we should probably get together for a meeting. I knew right then, I was about to get fired! The next day, I listed my car for sale in the newspaper.

C.C. Banana: In 2001, you got the call to return to Kiss at the tail end of the so-called Farewell Tour, replacing Peter Criss for the Japanese and Australian dates. What was it like putting on the make-up and costume and performing with the classic Kiss line-up for that very first show?

Eric Singer: Actually, the first time I wore the make-up was for the first photo session. Paul was the one who put it on me because I didn't know what the hell I was doing. Ever since then, I've done it myself and by now it's just like doing a paint-by-numbers! But yes, the first time I put on the make-up before a concert was kind of freaky. Our first shows were in Japan and we hadn't actually done any production rehearsals in make-up. I just remember looking out at the stage during the concert and thinking, "Wow, that's Gene Simmons... that's Ace Frehley... that's Paul Stanley... and they're all in make-up... and I'm playing drums!" It was kind of like a good acid trip.

C.C. Banana: Did they give you your own costume or did they make you wear Peter's smelly old one?

Eric Singer: No, they made me a new one. Peter and I are the same size but I'm built a little differently. The boots fit almost perfectly but Peter's costume is a little bigger in the middle because I'm a bit thinner. Although at the moment I'm a little chubby, so I don't think I'd fit into either one!

C.C. Banana: Do they let you hang onto the costume or do they make you leave a deposit and check it in at the end of the tour?

Eric Singer: No, I get to keep it! I'm smart, I made that part of my deal! I actually have two complete costumes -- two different ones from the two tours I've done.

C.C. Banana: Do you ever put on the costume just for fun? Maybe for Halloween or entertaining dates on the weekends?

Eric Singer: Uh... no.

C.C. Banana: In 2003, you were kicked out of the band again when Peter Criss returned for the World Domination Tour with Aerosmith and the recording of the Kiss: Symphony album. At the time you were so upset that you vowed never to work with Kiss again... and yet, here you are. What got you to finally change your mind and do you feel like you're always getting sloppy seconds?

Eric Singer: Oh, I am always getting sloppy seconds! But you know what? Sloppy or not, at least I get to eat! As for why I went back... you know how Gene signs his autograph with a big dollar sign? That's why. Money talks and bullshit walks. Bottom line, I play drums for a living and whether I like it or not, it's still a business. Gene will tell you the same thing. It's not "music friends," it's "music business." So I have no regrets.

C.C. Banana: Speaking of Peter Criss, it was recently announced that he will soon be releasing his first solo album in 13 years. Will you be playing the role of Peter Criss on that, too?

Eric Singer: Hey, I'm open to it! You never know, I might get the call.

C.C. Banana: Have you ever been in the presence of Peter Criss while wearing the make-up of Peter Criss?

Eric Singer: Not yet. But there's still time.

C.C. Banana: Have you ever received a kiss from a member of Kiss?

Eric Singer: Ace might have tried to kiss me at some point. I remember Paul telling me that once back in the old days, they were all sitting around the dressing room and for whatever reason, Peter just went over to Ace and put his dick on Ace's shoulder! Then Ace turned around and kissed it!

C.C. Banana: Note to self -- don't put dick on Ace's shoulder.

Eric Singer: Ace has a giant schlong too, you know. One night before a Kiss show, he actually took Viagra because he wanted his dick to be hard during the concert. When I asked him why, he said, "So people can see me get hard in the costume." He even tried snorting it once!

C.C. Banana: Ace Frehley snorted Viagra?

Eric Singer: Yep! He thought it would get into his system faster. So Ace snorted the Viagra... but do you know what happened? His nose swelled up instead! True story! When I tell this stuff to people, they think I'm lying or embellishing. But it's all absolutely true. Anyone who has ever worked with Ace will verify it. You'll never meet another person like him. Ace Frehley stories are the absolute best.

C.C. Banana: In that case, tell us another Ace Frehley story!

Eric Singer: Well, Ace was really mad at Gene and Paul while we were on tour in Australia. One night before a show, we were all in the dressing room, putting on our make-up... all of us but Ace. Apparently there had been some schism earlier in the day so when he finally did show up, he was really mad and really late. He came in without saying hi to anyone, put his bag down and went over to this big chalkboard that happened to be in the dressing room that night. He then proceeded to draw a huge pentagram on it, putting our initials on all 5 points -- G for Gene, P for Paul, E for Eric, A for Ace and D for Doc, our manager. Then he came over to me and whispered in my ear, "Something bad is going to happen in the show tonight. I just put a hex on Gene and Paul." I swear to God, he actually said this! Apparently Ace had been hanging out with a magician the night before and the guy had taught him some black magic. Anyway, nothing happened that night but the next night we played the same place, so Ace came into the dressing room again and added even more symbols and stuff to the chalkboard.

C.C. Banana: Did anything bad happen that night?

Eric Singer: No, nothing happened that night, either.

C.C. Banana: I think I liked the penis story better.

The entire interview is available here: http://www.CCBanana.com/sludge/20questionsericsinger.htm

Thursday, July 19, 2007 11:14:45 AM - Nashville KISS Expo

(From KISSarmywarehouse.com) Get A Life Inc and KISSaholics present the 2007 Nashville KISS Expo. Get ready for another great KISS Expo! The 2007 Nashville KISS Expo will be held Sunday, July 29th from 12:00PM to 8:00PM (11:00AM for VIP holders)

The Holiday Inn Select Opryland/Airport
2200 ELM HILL PIKE
Nashville , TN 37214

For hotel rooms - call 615-883-9770
Ask for the KISS Expo rate!

The Nashville KISS Expo is back! Special guests include Eric Singer(KISS, Alice Cooper and ESP). Eric will be answering questions and will be available for autographs and photos. Paul Stanley has authorized a special sneak peak of his upcoming LIVE TO WIN Concert DVD! "I'm really proud of this film and there's no reason to wait for the DVD release to share it with the fans," Paul stated. “Everyone at KISS Expo are in for a treat that will leave them wanting and waiting for more." Director Louis Antonelli has put together a wonderful 30 minute piece including a trailer from Paul's Chicago House of Blues Show. Antonelli will be on hand to intro the film and will hold a Q & A directly after the screening.

Just added, KISS Online's Keith Leroux will do a Q/A. Keith will be discussing the new KISS Army Fanclub and upcoming merchandise releases. There will also be special KISS Online prize giveaways!

Children 12 and under get in free! KISS merchandise and collectibles will be on sale throughout the day. There will be giveaways and contests too. This is the first KISS Expo in Nashville in a long time. So let’s make it awesome return to Nashville!

VIP ticket holders will be able to get in one hour early (11am) and get a FREE collectible. VIP tickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Regular admission is $20 in advance and $25 at the door.

For vendor information contact us at: sstierwalt@getalifeinc.com

For more info keep checking in at KISSarmywarehouse.com for details.

Wednesday, July 18, 2007 6:23:14 AM - Taste of KISSOLOGY Vol. II

Click picture to play MPG conversion...

Excitement continues to build for the forthcoming second volume of KISS archival video series "KISSOLOGY." "KISSOLOGY VOL. II, 1978-1991" is currently scheduled for release on August 14 (In the US) and can be pre-ordered from Amazon.

KISSONLINE recently graciously shared a taste of Vol. II, "Detroit Rock City" from the legendary November 11, 1980 show at the Sydney Showgrounds in Sydney, Australia show with Eric Carr on drums. The majority of this amazing show will be included on disc 2 of the KISSOLOGY Vol. II package.

Watch the original YouTube version, HERE

Tuesday, July 17, 2007 4:05:51 PM - Ace Dunks!

Click pictures to play MPG conversion...

Ace Frehley's hilarious Dunkin' Donuts commercial started airing last night, mostly on the East Coast. Filmed in June, the commercial was directed by Zach Braff (screenwriter, director, producer and actor) to support Dunkin's Iced Latte summer beverage.

Watch the original YouTube version, HERE. Thanks to jamccor for the original YouTube add.

Monday, July 16, 2007 12:00:00 AM - Countdown To KISSology II (Part 2)

Counting down the release of KISSology Vol. II on August 14, the KISSFAQ will be detailing some of contents currently expected to be included on the set (including the bonus discs).

Part 2 is the long-circulating Japanese "Crazy Nights" tour bonus disc. Filmed at Tokyo's legendary Budokan Hall on April 22, 1988, during the middle of a three night stand there. It's been detailed that the songs on the bonus DVD come from the 4/21 performance, but that's previously been unknown to have been archived on video. However, Japanese TV station NHK did professionally film the 4/22 show, so it is presumably that one which will be included. If not, then collectors will be in for a surprise!

This disc will be the "general" bonus included in the initial copies of "KISSOLOGY Vol. II." While it has circulated for years, having been broadcast in Japan, a quality upgrade should be a treat for this era of the band, though some fans have put a lot of work into making the video as good as possible. "Crazy Crazy Nights" is featured in the clip above (which is from an "unofficial" DVD, not the actual KISSology disc).

The full set of the show was (only those shows maked in red will be on the bonus disc):
01. Love Gun
02. Cold Gin
03. Bang Bang You
04. Calling Dr. Love
05. Fits Like A Glove
06. Crazy Crazy Nights
07. No, No, No
08. Reason To Live
09. Heaven's On Fire
10. War Machine
11. I Love It Loud
12. Lick It Up
13. Black Diamond
14. I Was Made For Lovin' You
15. Shout It Out Loud
16. Strutter
17. Rock And Roll All Nite
18. Detroit Rock City

Hopefully Eric Carr's drum solo will be included, though it was partially included on the "Eric Carr: Tale of the Fox" DVD in 2001!.

You can also see a clip of "No, No, No," which won't be included on the disc, in the multimedia section. Click to order KISSology Vol. II from Amazon, HERE.

Thursday, July 12, 2007 12:00:00 AM - Remembering Eric Carr

Today would have been Eric Carr's 57th birthday, put on your "Creatures Of The Night" CD and CRANK IT...

Alternatively, check out these Eric Carr drum solos: 1980 | 1984 | 1985 | 1988 | 1990

Monday, July 09, 2007 12:00:00 AM - Countdown To KISSology II (Part 1)

Counting down the release of KISSology Vol. II on August 14, the KISSFAQ will be detailing some of contents currently expected to be included on the set (including the bonus discs).

Part 1 is the incredible so-called Largo bonus disc. The Capital Center was acually located in Landover, MD. While the July 7th date has been noted, only the July 8th show is known to have been of reasonable quality. What follows is from the 8th, if the 7th turns out to be the bonus disc, then it's an additional treat. If not, it probably won't matter much to the majority purchasing that version as they'll not have seen it anyway. While we currently don't know which retail outlet will be offering this disc, the whole show has circulated for years. The copies in fan circles certainly aren't the greatest videos possible, though some fans have put a lot of work into making the video as good as possible. "Radioactive," from Gene's solo album is featured in the clip above (which is from an "unofficial" DVD, not the actual KISSology disc).

The full set of the show was (only those shows maked in red will be on the bonus disc):
King Of The Night Time World
01. Radioactive
02. Move On
03. Calling Dr. Love
04. Firehouse
05. New York Groove
06. I Was Made For Lovin' You
07. Love Gun
2,000 Man + Ace Guitar Solo
08. Tossin' And Turnin'
09. God Of Thunder
10. Shout It Out Loud
11. Black Diamond
12. Detroit Rock City
Beth
13. Rock And Roll All Nite

It's understandable for "Beth" to be excluded. Peter wasn't on best form for that song forgetting the second verse and being a bit out of key. Some have suggested he deliberately butchered the song during the tour, but only he knows the true answer to that! And it's not like Gene hasn't ever flubbed lyrics either. The show's opener is excluded, possibly with the "you wanted the best, you've got the best. The GREATEST band in the world" intro.

You can also see a clip of Peter Criss' "Tossin' And Turnin'" in the multimedia section. Click to order KISSology Vol. II from Amazon, HERE.

Sunday, July 08, 2007 7:51:28 PM - Dick Wagner Suffers Heart Attack

Classic Alice Cooper Band line-up guitarist Dick Wagner suffered a heart attack on July 3. Dick also played on two Bob Ezrin produced KISS albums and did a Q&A with the KISSFAQ, HERE. Check out Dick's official site, HERE. The KISSFAQ wishes Dick a speedy and full recovery!

Sunday, July 08, 2007 7:51:28 PM - Peter Criss In-Store Appearance

Peter Criss is scheduled to make a special In-Store appearance at Virgin Records on 52 E. 14th Street in New York City on July 24. Peter will be signing copies of his new solo album, One For All. Additionally, personally autographed limited "special edition," marked with a "gold" sticker on the CD, will be available in the U.S. at BEST BUY.

Sunday, July 08, 2007 7:51:28 PM - Family Jewels: The Best of Seasons 1 & 2 DVD Set

A&E TV Video will release Gene Simmons Family Jewels: The Best of Seasons 1 & 2 DVD Set on August 14. This 176 minutes set features highlights from the first two seasons of the series, including:
Happily Unmarried
Next Generation Rock Star
The Demon Lives
Driving Me Crazy
A Bun in the Oven
Nice Day for a Facelift
Face Off
Master Gene Theater
DVD Extras include a bonus episode Under the Knife and Cast Biographies.

A&E has recently commissioned a third season of the show. Click to order, HERE.

Wednesday, July 05, 2007 1:21:22 PM - KISSFAQ Message Board Still "Down"

Due to the KISSFAQ message board database being hacked, the board is currently still down. A restore is in process, but will cost us a week's worth of data.

Wednesday, July 04, 2007 6:11:45 AM - KISSFAQ Message Board "Down"

The KISSFAQ message board is currently down. I'd assume the webhost is working on a resolution for all of their customers who pay for service, but it's out of my control and their track record speaks volumes. Frankly, today's a holiday, so get out, get away from the computer, and enjoy life. The "bored" will hopefully return (with its data).

Monday, July 02, 2007 1:50:33 PM - KISS "Live" Song Voting: Poll's Open!

KISS have invited online fans to vote for a rarely perfomed song on a poll on KISSOnline. These songs include (with notes by KISSFAQ) the following gems from the KISS catalog:

"All American Man" - This song was briefly attempted during some shows on the 1995 Konvention "Unplugged" tour. It has never been fully performed by KISS in concert, though bits have been included in KISS' sound-checks (for collectors, note Erfurt '99).

"Mr. Speed" - This song was briefly attempted during many shows on the 1995 Konvention "Unplugged" tour. It has never been fully performed by KISS in an electric concert.

"A Million To One" - Never performed by KISS live, though a popular inclusion on Paul Stanley's "Live To Win" tour.

"Magic Touch" - Never performed by KISS live, though a popular inclusion on Paul Stanley's "Live To Win" tour.

"Let Me Know" - This song was last fully performed by KISS during the "Dressed To Kill" tour in 1975 and had been performed by the band in the clubs. In fact, the song was left off the "Alive!" album, though included on a King Biscuit radio broadcast around the time that "Alive!" was broadcast. KISS messed around with the song during the Konvention tour.

"Strange Ways" - One of the stellar Frehley (solo credits) songs contributed to "Hotter Than Hell" in 1974. This song was performed briefly by KISS during concerts in early 1975. It was also a popular inclusion during many of Ace's solo tours. KISS attempted the song during the Konvention tour. Eric Singer performed this song on the incredible "Return Of The Comet" tribute album in 1997. It wouldn't be surprising if this were Eric's suggestion as he's been known to want to perform it with KISS.

"Rock Bottom" - last performed by KISS during the "Alive/Worldwide '96-7" tour.

"Sweet Pain" - the infamous song where producer Bob Ezrin brought in Dick Wagner to record the guitar solo. KISS performed this song live just once, but also messed around with it during the Konvention tour.

"Almost Human" - Gene's obscure "Love Gun" track. KISS messed around with the song during the Konvention tour, but it's never been fully performed. It has, however, also been messed around with during sound-checks, again Erfut.

"Ladies Room" - A classic of the "Love Gun" / "Alive II" era, this song was last performed live at the Magic Mountain concert performed for "KISS Meets The Phantom of the Park" in May 1978.

No, "The Oath" wasn't included, so perhaps us diehards should "get the message loud and clear!" Vote, by following the instructions HERE.

Tuesday, June 26, 2007 5:33:23 AM - 10 Questions For... Peter Criss

(From Goldmine Magazine - Susan Sliwicki) "There’s so much more to Peter “The Catman” Criss than the layer of black and white stage makeup that he wore as the drummer and a founding member of the legendary rock band KISS. He hates it when people make illegal music downloads, because it’s stealing. He’s a voracious reader who loves to read about the theater, history, music and biographies — especially the success stories. He’s an aspiring author who is writing his own book. He’s an actor, probably best known for his role on the HBO prison drama “Oz.”

And then, of course, there is Peter’s life’s passion: music. He loves to make “records” (he’s old school, after all). His latest record, One for All, drops July 26 on Silvercat Records. Goldmine caught up with Peter to find out more about his experience producing One for All, why he chose to be “The Catman,” which KISS collectibles are his favorites and what his musical future holds.

Goldmine: So, tell me about your new album.
Peter Criss: I’m very excited about it, because I haven’t done a solo project since oh, maybe 12 years ago when the band got back to play. It’s really kind of an autobiographical CD. It’s about me and kind of what’s going on in my life and life in general — the goods, the bads, the loss and the gains, the loves you lose and the loves you get. I got to write some songs for the fans, who have given me the most wonderful damn life, as Jimmy Stewart would say. I have everything a guy could want today. The dream I once had has now been a reality for years. If not for the fans, I would not be here. I got to really write some great songs from the heart for them..."

Read the whole feature, HERE.