The KISSFAQ - November '05 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.

Wednesday, November 30, 2005 04:53:58 GMT - Live Frehley's Comet album coming?
According to Bravewords.com: "Legendary KISS guitarist Ace Frehley will release Greatest Hits Live on January 24, 2006. According to a press release, "it is a highly anticipated release since it showcases Ace in a “live” setting. Watch for Ace to show up for several surprise gigs in 2006! This collection of live songs represents some of the best work from legendary Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley during the period after his highly publicized departure from one of the greatest rock bands of all time. Included on this Greatest Hits Live CD are tracks from the Megaforce days and feature members of Ace Frehley's Comet: Anton Fig (drums), John Regan (bass), Tod Howarth (guitar/keyboards) and Richie Scarlett (guitar), and Jamie Oldaker on drums live in London, plus other special guests."

KISSFAQ Says: Sounds like a CD version of the Live+4 video, but there a few details mentioned so far. Both "recent" Ace Frehley releases, "12 Picks" & "Loaded Deck," had little to do with Ace himself as they were the result of John Regan. Still, it "could" be something fans have never heard before (or not)... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 28, 2005 08:37:50 GMT - KISSWorld Auctioning off stock...
(From Charles Leski Auctions Online) "The Kissworld official retail store, was a unique joint venture project between "KISS" the band and the Australian owners of KISSworld. Misunderstandings between the parties led to the early demise of an enterprise which, even in its early days had already captured the imagination of Kiss fans from all around the world. Traffic to the website was enormous. The following lots present the remaining stock of Kissworld which now must be sold." Check out the auction listings (in Aus$) at: Charles Leski Auctions Online... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 28, 2005 07:51:16 GMT - Gene on marriage in new book...
(From Blabbermouth) According to the Daily Press, KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons is one of the celebrities talking about marriage — what constitutes a happy one and an unhappy one — in the new book "What Were You Thinking $600-per-hour Legal Advice on Relationships, Marriage and Divorce" (Phoenix Books, $25.95) by Mark A. Barondess, a Virginia Beach native.

Other celebrities featured include Larry King, Donald Trump, Dr. Phil, and Montel Williams. The author also offers his a dvice to those considering marriage and shares some humorous anecdotes... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 28, 2005 06:32:20 GMT - New Merchandise at KISS Army Warehouse!
"We have been getting ready for the Christmas season by adding more items and stocking up on existing items. KISS Army Warehouse has over 700 KISS related items in stock and ready to ship. You will surely be able to find something for every KISS fan in your family that cannot be found anywhere else at the best possible price! The KISS Army lives and breathes at KISSArmyWarehouse.com.

Not sure what to get that KISS fan in your life, don't pick the wrong thing order a KISS Army Warehouse Gift Certificate! Go to A HREF="http://www.kissarmywarehouse.com/">KISSArmyWarehouse.com to order!"... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 28, 2005 05:42:32 GMT - Gene Simmons "Miller Lite" Beer Commercial

Gene Simmons recently played a "taste expert" on the Miller Beer "Taste Trial" ad campaign. Gene's commercial spot can be viewed online at www.tastetrial.com.

KISSFAQ Says: Some fans are freaking out becuase Gene did this commercial spot, with his long known opinion concerning alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. Relax, there really are more important things to worry about... «Post A Comment»

Saturday, November 26, 2005 15:47:55 GMT - REVIEW: Gods Of Thunder: A Norwegian Tribute to KISS

Reviewing a KISS tribute album has become like a taste-test over the past few years. There have been so many that few ever stand apart from the rest. However, what has become apparent is that some producers of tribute projects are becoming more and more professional. Where the KISS Army Online's "Music From The Folder" CD set the standard for diversity and interpretation the 1997 tribute "Return Of The Comet" set the standard for professional packaging and presentation.

In late 2004 Sack Trick established a new standard for KISS tributes with their humorous and diverse "Sheep In KISS Make Up." As such I felt (at the time) that it would be pointless to review further KISS tributes - it had all been done. Boy, was I wrong... Read the review, HERE... «Post A Comment»

Thursday, November 24, 2005 - Remembering Eric Carr...
IN MEMORY OF
PAUL CHARLES CARAVELLO

"ERIC CARR"
(1950-1991)

GONE FOR NOW, BUT NEVER TO BE FORGOTTEN...

Wednesday, November 23, 2005 10:03:24 GMT - KISS co-writer Mike Japp to release solo CD...
Mike Japp should be a name well-known to diehard KISS fans. He co-wrote several songs with the band with three ("Move On," "(Take me away) Together As One", and "Ain't Quite Right") appearing on Paul Stanley's 1978 solo album. KISS performed "Move On" during part of the 1979 "Return Of KISS" tour in support of "Dynasty."

In 1982 Mike contributed to "Saint and Sinner" with Gene, and "Down On your Knees" with Paul and Bryan Adams. These songs were released on "Creatures Of The Night" and "Killers" respectively. Mike has just completed work on his solo CD, "Dreamer" which contains 13 tracks written by him.

Those interested in purchasing Mike's CD and hearing his solo material can reach him at mikejapp@ntlworld.com... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 21, 2005 20:32:34 GMT - Allmusic.com reviews "Rock The Nation Live!" DVD
(From: AllMusic.com via kissasylum.com; By: by Greg Prato) "KISS has issued countless home videos and DVD's over the years, so it's understandable to assume that their 2005 model, 'Rock the Nation: Live,' treads similar water. But unlike the others, this double DVD set reconstructs the complete set of a KISS 'rock' concert (2003's KISS Symphony saw the band collaborate with a symphony). And in this case, the group's 2004 summer tour is showcased - by combining highlights from shows in Washington, D.C., and Virginia Beach. While hardcore fans of the original line-up may frown upon the release since ACE FREHLEY and PETER CRISS aren't present (replaced by TOMMY THAYER and ERIC SINGER, respectively), there is quite a lot to attract longtime admirers of the group. First off, in addition to the expected classics, the DVD sees the group dust off quite a few tracks that had rarely been played before (some making their live debut), including such standouts as "Got To Choose," "Love Her All I Can," and as a bonus bit, "Goin' Blind."

Secondly, there are a few interesting gadgets not included on any previous KISS DVD releases, most notably a 'KISS Powervision/Select-A-Kiss' option, which lets you zero in on the specific KISS member of your choosing. One complaint though is the annoying constant presence of pre-recorded, scantily clad strippers dancing away on screens behind the band, rather than close-up shots of the group itself (which would have come in handy for the poor buggers stranded all the way up in the nose bleeds). From a sound and visual point of view, 'Rock the Nation: Live' is arguably the finest live KISS DVD to hit the marketplace. One can only hope that when KISS finally decides to open the vaults, vintage shows will be on par with this" ... «Post A Comment»

Wednesday, November 16, 2005 04:54:20 GMT - Rock The Nation UK and Europe Release
(From: Image Entertainment via Paul Harrison) Apparently, the "Kiss: Rock the Nation" DVD will be released in the UK and Europe by Sony BMG on the release day as in America - which is December 13th... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, November 15, 2005 18:24:48 GMT - More new Peter Criss songs?
A few months ago KISSFAQ mentioned a new Peter Criss song, "Space Ace" (Criss/Montague), though it's not currently known whether it's been recorded or is planned for use by Peter. It seems the "Cat" has recently published some material with former Criss guitarist Mike "Angel" McLaughlin...

Bohemia - Criss/McLaughlin
Cat Nap - Criss/McLaughlin
Crossroads - Criss/McLaughlin
Doesn't Get Better (Than This) - Kipps/Criss/McLaughlin
Faces In The Crowd - Criss/McLaughlin
Fallin' All Over Again - Criss/McLaughlin
Hope - Criss/McLaughlin
Last Night - Criss/McLaughlin
Reason For Living - Criss/McLaughlin
What Does It Take - Criss/McLaughlin
Whisper - Criss/McLaughlin

Who know's what will come of these songs (if anything)... Peter reported on his website in February that he was working with Charles Kipps (as co-producer) and former Criss bandmates Mark Montague (bass) and "Angel" McLaughlin (lead guitar)... «Post A Comment»

Saturday, November 12, 2005 17:21:24 GMT - Steiner Sports Marketing Signs Exclusive Agreement with KISS
(From Steiner Sports) Steiner Sports Marketing has signed an exclusive agreement with the legendary rock group, KISS. "We are always looking to expand our horizons as a company, and the opportunity to join forces with KISS was an easy one," Chris Amoroso, Executive Vice President of Steiner Sports Marketing, said. "We enjoyed great success in the past when we forged an alliance with the cast of The Sopranos, and we're confident that this teaming with KISS will provide equally strong results."

Formed in 1973, KISS is one of rock n roll's most enduring groups. Though they're famous for their outlandish makeup and wild costumes, such songs as "Rock and Roll All Nite," "Beth" and "Detroit Rock City" remain rock radio staples to this day. And nothing - nothing - beats KISS live in concert. The current incarnation of KISS features original members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley, as well as Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer.

As part of the Steiner-KISS agreement, Steiner will arrange an appearance with KISS and offer autographed guitars, photographs, drum heads and other memorabilia. Fans will also have the opportunity to send in their own favorite KISS collectibles to be signed by the band. The first KISS signing is scheduled for late 2005.

A private signing is currently scheduled with KISS for Dec 13... "Private Signings take place at the Steiner offices or at an undisclosed location. The public is not allowed to attend such signings, but they may send in personal items, such as bats and photos, to be autographed by their favorite athlete."... «Post A Comment»

Friday, November 11, 2005 16:55:24 GMT - Judge Allows Lawsuit Against Gene
(By SAMUEL MAULL, Associated Press Writer) "A woman who claims to be a former girlfriend of KISS rocker Gene Simmons can proceed with a defamation lawsuit in which she says he made her sound like a "sex-addicted nymphomaniac" during a VH1 television show, a judge has ruled. State Supreme Court Justice Rosalyn Richter denied Simmons' motion to dismiss two of three claims by Georgeann Walsh Ward, 53, who says in court papers made public Friday that Simmons slandered her during a "rockumentary" about KISS.

Ward said in her lawsuit, filed in January, that photos of her appeared 11 times during the report on KISS, which was shown on the network several times in July and August. In it, Simmons claimed to have had sexual encounters with 4,600 women. The documentary, "When KISS Ruled The World," chronicled the band's 30-year career, its impact on rock music and the quartet's "wild" antics. The other band members were guitarist/singer Paul Stanley, drummer Peter Criss, and guitarist Ace Frehley.

Simmons says during the show, "There wasn't a girl that was off limits, and I enjoyed every one of them," Ward's court papers say. At another point Simmons says, "I was a 24-hour whore. All I ever thought about was sex." This, court papers say, was shown and followed by a photo of Ward with Simmons. Ward's papers say that because a photo of her with Simmons — though her name is never mentioned — was shown during remarks about his sexual adventures, she was in effect portrayed as "wild" and "unchaste."

Richter let stand Ward's two claims that she was depicted as unchaste or promiscuous during the documentary, even though Ward admitted she was in a "romantic" relationship with Simmons. Social mores regarding sex between unmarried persons have changed, the judge said, but the law still says that calling a woman unchaste is defamation. The judge dismissed Ward's claim that her likeness was used for commercial purposes without her permission. Richter said editorial use of photographs in documentaries or news publications is not barred by law. Ward's lawyer, Martha McBrayer, did not return calls for comment. Linda Steinman, who represents Simmons, did not return calls for comment... «Post A Comment»

Friday, November 11, 2005 10:13:01 GMT - New KISSFAQ books finally available
After a long adventure two new KISSFAQ titles are finally available for order in soft and hardcover:

#28036 - The KISS Album Focus (3rd Edition) Volume I: Kings Of The Night Time World, 1972-82
MSRP $26.99 - softcover (ISBN: 1-59926-358-0)
MSRP $36.99 - hardcover (ISBN: 1-59926-359-9)
543 pages, illustrated
Cover by Christopher Franchi
The KISS Album Focus (3rd Edition) Volume I

#30058 - The KISS Album Focus (3rd Edition) Volume II: Hell Or High Water, 1983-96
MSRP $24.99 - softcover (ISBN: 1-59926-358-0)
MSRP $34.99 - hardcover (ISBN: 1-59926-359-9)
423 pages, illustrated
Cover by Christopher Franchi
The KISS Album Focus (3rd Edition) Volume II

#30059 - The KISS & Related Recordings Focus (2nd Edition)
MSRP $28.99 - softcover (ISBN: 1-59926-360-2)
MSRP $38.99 - hardcover (ISBN: 1-59926-361-0)
601 pages
Cover by Frederic Vehert
The KISS & Related Recordings Focus (2nd Edition)

Ordering:
Orders are available direct from the publisher, Xlibris. Please quote the specific title number listed above.

Timeline for Book Orders:
Because all of Xlibris books are printed to order, please allow 15 business days for production of paperbacks and 20 business days for hardbacks. In addition, please allow time for delivery, depending on the method you’ve selected for shipment... «Post A Comment»

Thursday, November 10, 2005 07:38:27 GMT - Bruce Kulick to make guest appearance on the new LORDI album
Bruce Kulick will be making a guest appearance on the new LORDI album, currently titled "The Arockalypse" playing the guitar solo on the track "Snowing in Hell." "The Arockalypse" is tentatively scheduled for release early next year... «Post A Comment»

Thursday, November 10, 2005 04:38:49 GMT - Paul Stanley Readies Second Solo Set
(From Billboard.com by Greg Prato) "Kiss may not be planning on hitting the recording studio any time soon, but vocalist/guitarist Paul Stanley is heading down the solo route. As first tipped here in 2003, Stanley is nearing completion on his first non-Kiss release since his self-titled 1978 album, issued in tandem with solo projects from the other three original Kiss members. "So far everybody that's heard [the album] thinks it's great, so I'm real pleased with it," Stanley tells Billboard.com of the as-yet-untitled set. "Again, at this point, if it sells 100 copies or 100,000 copies or 10,000,000 copies, it won't change my life either way. All it's about is doing what I want to do and what I have the freedom to do. That being said, it's a very mainstream album. I don't think I'm going to surprise anybody being mistaken for somebody else. It was important to me to do the album I wanted to do, without any regard for anybody else's opinion or direction."

Stanley did not reveal specifics about the sonic direction of the project, but says time has only sharpened his skills. "It's not 1978 anymore," he says. "It's certainly the same mentality, and certainly I'm a better singer today. My perspective and where I'm at in my life at this point, and what I've experienced and seen, brings something else to the table that wasn't there then. But I still look back on that album as a really great snapshot of who I was and what I was doing then." Joining Stanley on the album are session drummer Victor Indrizzo, guitarist Corky James, former Marilyn Manson guitarist John5, former Kiss guitarist Bruce Kulick (who plays bass on a few songs) and noted string arranger David Campbell.

"It was great because there's a freedom to also being the director," Stanley enthuses. "In the studio, it's called the producer, but in actuality, it's the director -- the person who puts the scene together. It's great to not be limited by having to use a set group of people, because then you have to tailor to their ability or to their taste. So in doing something like this, you have total freedom to not only do what you want, but to bring in the people who can do it well. It's been great." When the album is done, Stanley is hoping to support it with live shows. "I would love to go out, and my plan is to go out and play," he says. As previously reported, Kiss' 2004 Rock the Nation tour is chronicled on the DVD "Rock the Nation! Live," due Dec. 13 via Image Entertainment." ... «Post A Comment»

Wednesday, November 09, 2005 15:23:05 GMT - KISS Keeps Rocking With Live DVD english Release
(From Billboard.com by Greg Prato) "Make-up clad rock icons Kiss will on Dec. 13 release a double-disc concert DVD, "Rock the Nation Live!," via Image Entertainment. Although there are countless Kiss home videos and DVDs on the market, "Nation" sets itself apart with an abundance of rare songs, the "Kiss Powervision/Select-A-Kiss" option to hone in on an individual member and candid behind-the-scenes vignettes. Taped in summer 2004 in Washington, D.C., and Virginia Beach, the DVD features core members Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons flanked by guitarist Tommy Thayer and drummer Eric Singer. "We were playing a lot of songs that Kiss hadn't played in years, or haven't played at all," Thayer tells Billboard.com. "One day, Doc McGhee, the manager, came into the dressing room, and said, 'We really need to film and record this show, because it's so good. It's probably the best Kiss performance I've seen.' So we said, 'OK.' That was the spark that got the whole thing going."

"At any moment, a viewer can choose what they want to see, and use different camera angles," Stanley adds. "So if you happen to have the good taste to see me, you can watch pretty much solely that. It's really your mix and your version of the show. I don't think we can forget that the band is really in peak form, and that's really shown on this DVD." Stanley admits he was thrilled to air out such Kiss oldies as "Christine Sixteen," "She" and "Parasite" during the tour. "To be able to go out and play every and any Kiss song was very freeing," he enthuses. "We reached a point where a lot of the tours after the reunion tour were virtually the same set list, and it wasn't because we didn't want to play other songs. Once Tommy and Eric came in, on any given night, we could change the show, and really dig deep into our catalog. A band that's been together this long not only should be able to play 'Rock and Roll All Nite' and 'Love Gun,' but [also] 'Two Timer' or 'Got To Choose.'"

Still, fans continue to await a vault-clearing visual release, a project that Stanley acknowledges is closer to reality than ever before. "Yesterday was the beginning of planning really the ultimate Kiss experience," he says. "That Scorsese/ Dylan piece ['No Direction Home: Bob Dylan'] was eye opening, at least to me, in terms of how you can be immersed in a time capsule, and not only see the music and be part of the crowd, but also get a sense of who Dylan was then. There are times when I'm much more interested in actual footage of somebody in the moment than somebody reminiscing 20 or 30 years later. It's fascinating to see where somebody was at, and what their mindset was in the midst of storm, as opposed to looking back on it. That set a really high bar, and I think that is more likely our approach at this point."

For now, it is unknown when Kiss may return to the road. "There's definitely talk," Stanley acknowledges. "I had a hip replacement a year ago, and that unfortunately didn't go as well as it should have, and they did it again, and that also didn't go as well as it should have. So the recovery from that has been longer, although about six weeks ago we did a corporate show for 15,000 people, in Columbus, Ohio. The band is as good and ready to go as ever. The difference is that I have to make sure that I can commit 100% of my energy for a tour, and not just a show."

Here is the track list for "Rock the Nation Live!":
Disc one:
"Love Gun"
"Deuce"
"Makin' Love"
"Lick It Up"
"Christine Sixteen"
"She"
"Tears Are Falling"
"Got To Choose"
"I Love It Loud"
"Love Her All I Can"
"I Want You"
"Parasite"

Disc two:
"War Machine"
"100,000 Years"
"Unholy"
"Shout It Out Loud"
"I Was Made For Lovin' You"
"Detroit Rock City"
"God Gave Rock & Roll to You II"
"Rock and Roll All Nite"... «Post A Comment»

Wednesday, November 09, 2005 15:18:49 GMT - "KISS My Auction" @ Backstage Auctions Coming Soon
"KISS My Auction"
You want the rarest, we've got the rarest...
Preview Opens: November 27th
Auction Starts: December 4th

Backstage Auctions is proud to present the 2005 "KISS My Auction" event which will feature 100's of items from the private collections of more than a dozen original KISS crew & company members from the glorious days of the 1970's. We are extremely honored to represent these individuals who are now willing to open their personal KISS treasure box and share their historic mementos with the ever growing KISS Army.

Among the more notable pieces will be the original artwork for Rock and Roll Over, Gene Simmons' fire breathing sword and a pair of boots, a vintage Paul Stanley Gibson Marauder guitar and a stage worn Peter Criss belt. Also featured in the auction are record awards, vintage shirts & jackets, tour documents, press kits, rare vinyl, picks 'n sticks, party invitations, Christmas cards, rare photos, promotional items, toys and so much more!

The list of consignors in the "KISS My Auction" reads like a KISS "who's who" list. Those who have opened their vault of personal mementos are Eddie Balandas, J.R. Smalling, Peter Oreckinto "Moose", Hank Schmel, Lydia Criss, Richie Fontana, Waring Abbott, Kent Gates, Mark Brotter, Rosanne Shelnutt, James Fortune, Bill Bartell, Michael Doret, Bill McManus, Ken Anderson and more. "It will be an early KISSmas this year," says Jacques van Gool, co founder of Backstage Auctions and long time KISS collector. "I thought I had seen it all, but even I have been in awe over the rich history behind these authentic pieces."

For those of you that missed out on our most recent "SPOTLIGHT AUCTION", the unsold items are now "featured" in our online store. If you are a Jethro Tull fan or The Who fan there are some amazing photos and ephemera available for direct purchase. We also have some amazing limited edition photos by rock photographers James Fortune and Billy Tompkins in the Backstage Auctions Store. Interested in some rock art posters? We have a few Bill Graham and Family Dog poster collections as well as some very cool event posters available for direct purchase in our poster and handbill section located in the Backstage Auctions Store. Looking for a specific artist...use our store SEARCH feature to find all artist related items available for direct purchase.

If you have questions, please feel free to contact us directly. One of our Backstage Auctions Crew members will be happy to assist you.

We look forward to seeing you at the auction block.
Rock On!
The Backstage Auctions Crew... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 07, 2005 08:36:08 GMT - Happy Birthday Tommy Thayer
The KISSFAQ wishes a very happy birthday to Tommy Thayer who turns 45 today... «Post A Comment»

Monday, November 07, 2005 06:49:13 GMT - KISS "Destroyer" playing cards at spencer gifts...
kissfankevinwarhaft writes "i went to my local spencer gifts and saw kiss destroyer playing cards it comes with a collectible tin box and is $9.99 i was also told that alot more new kiss stuff will be released for spencer gifts by christmas"... «Post A Comment»

Tuesday, November 01, 2005 11:20:29 GMT - Gene concerned about aging process...
(From Contact Music) "Vain KISS frontman GENE SIMMONS is terrified he must be getting old - after twice being mistaken for rocker OZZY OSBOURNE. The 56-year-old ROCK SCHOOL teacher believes he may need a new beauty regime to keep his growing wrinkles at bay... He says, "It's got me running for the anti-ageing cream"... «Post A Comment»

Monday, October 31, 2005 03:58:50 GMT - More Union European Tour Dates Announced
Former KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick will be touring Europe with his band UNION in November/December. The band's lineup for the trek will consist of Kulick, John Corabi (guitar, vocals; MÖTLEY CRÜE, RATT), Chuck Garric (bass; ALICE COOPER, DIO) and Fred Coury (drums; CINDERELLA). Confirmed dates so far are as follows:

Nov. 23 - Alpenrock - Zürich, SWI
Nov. 25 - Stadthalle - Babenhausen, GER
Nov. 26 - Burnout - Witten, GER
Nov. 27 - Rock Cafe 2000 - Stourbridge, UK
Nov. 28 - Lock 17 - London, UK
Nov. 29 - Queens Hall - Nuneaton, UK
Dec. 01 - The Rock - Copenhagen, DEN
Dec. 02 - Sala Caracol - Madrid, SPA
Dec. 03 - Jam Club - Bergara, SPA
Dec. 04 - La Gabbia - Bassano del Grappa, ITA... «Post A Comment»