September 30



KISS Debuts Big As Lauryn Hill Reclaims Top Of Chart
From: MTV News via Steve Araki
Here is the report I saw on MTV
"In what plays out like a war for the nation's souls, the vintage demon glam rockers in Kiss edge out the Christian outfit D.C. Talk for next week's top debut on the Billboard album chart. According to SoundScan sales figures released on Wednesday, Kiss will score next week's number three slot after selling more than 109,000 copies (109,572) of "Psycho Circus" in its first week in stores. The release edged out D.C. Talk's "Supernatural" which sold more than 106,000 copies to land at number four. Both debuts fall behind Lauryn Hill, whose "Miseducation of Lauryn Hill" returns to the number one spot next week after selling another 167,000 copies. 'N Sync jumps up to number two next week as its self-titled album sold another 112,000 copies."

KISS and Tell
From: The Province via Steve Araki
Article by: Tom Harrison, Music Critic The Province
KISS was in Vancouver to film an episode of Millennium, scheduled to air October 30th.
A witch sits bored and cross-legged in the shade, smoking a cigarette and watching as a fur-covered Viking doffs his horns and crosses the parking lot in search of relief from the afternoon heat. Not far from the witch is a trapeze artist in black tights, a dancer with hair dyed redder than her dress, a ghoul and a zombie. Someone with a two-way radio and a headset is trying to find the bride of Frankenstein. Usually, it's assumed that these creatures only come out at night but today they are massed at The Rage nightclub on the Plaza of Nations as extras in the shooting of an episode of Millennium in which the guest stars are the members of KISS. This also explains the small dispatch from the KISS army that has gathered at the side entrance to The Rage, records and other memorabilia to be autographed in hand, who add that little extra soupcon of surrealism to the scene.
For Paul Stanley, one fourth of KISS, this is as it should be. "Doing Millennium was a natural for us," he says. "It's a show that bridges the boundaries of fantasy and reality, which is what we do." Stanley says this while wearing his full KISS kit: The black-and-silver platform boots, spangled tights, studded belt (which he quickly hands off to an assistant), coal-chute hair and white greasepaint with the black starred eye and red, Kewpie doll lip gloss. As he paces up and down the narrow alley between a row of production trailers, the platform boots let him tower over a stream of extras, Millennium crew and the band's aides. "We find it boring to be confined to the limitations of other rock bands," he states the KISS company line as drummer Peter Criss walks past him, still wearing his catman's makeup but decidedly cutting a less majestic profile in a dressing gown and myth-reducing sensible shoes. "We believe in pushing the envelope that much further at every opportunity," Stanley continues as a pair of blood-spattered security guards, one with his throat slit, stride by. "Our biggest rival is ourselves, our history. The limitations of being a rock band aren't our limitations."
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

Hard Radio News on KISS
From: HardRadio.com's Tim Henderson
Apparently KISS had to drag people off the street to fill their press conference on Monday, September 21 at Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood. The press conference featured all the original members speaking about future Kiss events including the Psycho Circus world tour which kicks off on Halloween at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles with the Smashing Pumpkins and the forthcoming New Line Cinema movie, Detroit Rock City. The tour will be launched by Fox Television, which will have the band on as guests on Mad-TV on Oct. 31 from 11-12 p.m. EST/PST. At midnight, Fox will air the Dodger Stadium show as part of Kiss Live: The Ultimate Halloween Party. The show is also scheduled to be available via Pepsi's Web site at www.pepsi.com. Tickets for the Dodger Stadium show go on sale Saturday (Sept. 26) at 10 a.m. PDT at all Ticketmaster locations. Watch for the Psycho Circus home video hits stores in late October and the documentary home video, Kiss: The Second Coming, detailing the Alive Worldwide tour in 1996-97 featuring 135 minutes on two tapes and a 38-page booklet, to be out in late November. Finally, the first single from Psycho Circus is the title track. The single is being released in England backed with 'Raise Your Glasses' Collectors Version and the Dance Remix of 'I Was Made For Lovin' You'...

KISS vs. Aerosmith Poll
From: Paul Jacobs
RollingStone online http://www.rollingstone.com is having a battle of the bands between Aerosmith and KISS. Go and vote now for KISS!
(KA Note: At this time KISS is losing. If you want them to win you better do your part and vote!!!!!!! Let them know the KISS Army Online will be heard!)


September 29



KISS In Vancouver: Millennium TV Show Tapings
From: Lorne Joseph
Mellenium Shoot. Sept.29th 1998
I had the privilege of going on the set of Millenium today to see what was happening on the shoot. Here's the details. The band plays the song Psycho Circus in full make up. The stage for the scene is really cool. The KISS logo is in the background. It's the logo from the Alive 1 tour. Peter's drum kit is the Destroyer drum kit. ( I actually got to touch it). The stage they used is the Alive 1 stage. Gene plays his axe. Peter, Paul and Ace all have cameos in the show in make up but it is not kiss make up. Gene only appears in the club shot. The stage looked very halloweenish with ghosts and skulls in the background. The guys were in town filming for 2 days in total. Two rumored Vancouver dates for the P.S. tour to hit our beloved city are Dec. 16th or early Febuary. Nothing is confirmed. A show Nov 20th is confirmed. I believe the show will be in Boston. There will also be a few days in New York in between the Halloween show and the New Years Eve Show. The band looked good together in the new/old outfits. Peter imparticular looked to be in fine form. One rumor that I heard through the crew was that Ace was a little drunk through the two days of shooting and judging by the way he staggered around, I believed them. All in all, the crew on Mellenium agreed that this was the largest shoot they had ever done and made no bones about the fact that the band really treated everyone that worked on set like gold. About 100 fans outside the Club waited to see KISS with assorted merch to sign. To my knowledge, none of them got lucky. The set was very tight with tons of extra security were on hand for the band. Gene was particularly interested to see if any of the merchandise at any of the local retailers in Vancouver was black market, one crew member told me. From what I gathered, in Vancouver, black market KISS merchandise is a real problem. Gene gave a 10 minute interview with Jeff O'neil from CFOX. (See CFOX.COM) The interview will run tonight between 6:00 P.M. and 6:30 P.M. on the station. I spoke to Jeff who said that the interview will run in it's entirety with only 1 song in the middle to break it up. THe song will be Raise Your Glasses. Kiss also spoke of their appearent displeasure with the way the Psycho Circus video came out. They're not happy with the 3D effect. Ace in particular was pissed about that. That's about all the info I could gather today. Except for one other thing. I stood no more than 2 feet from the band for over an hour. It was so cool. At the end of the shoot, I got a guitar pic from Ace while Lance Henrickson, the star of Millennium, manged to get Peter's drum sticks. Lance, if your reading this, I hope your happy.

KISS In Vancouver: Millennium TV Show Tapings Report
From: Ronn Roxburgh / Firehouse Online
Hello. I just got home from my second day on the set of Millennium. I was an extra in the Halloween episode which features KISS! The episode will be shown on the 30th of October on Fox. The sceen we were in (Simon Ali - Assistant Firehouse Editor, Sara Zentner - Secratary from hell, Rachel McGinnis - Firehouse member and myself Ronn Roxburgh, FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE Editor) was the sceen which KISS is in. The plot of the episode is a bit confusing, but it invloves a crime which was commited many years ago, and now a shlock movie producer is filming the crime as a B movie. Part of the B-movie takes place at a KISS concert. Some of the sceens take place while KISS is perfoming the song "Psycho Circus". During the two days we were on set, KISS lypsynched to the song "Psyco Cicrus" many many times. They were on a scaled down stage in the local vancouver night club "the Rage". They had the KISS logo and amps from the Reunion Tour and the stage was decorated with all kinds of Halloween props including skulls, a life sized Frankenstein and all sorts of other Halloween items. KISS of course were wearing their newly redesigned "Destroyer" outsits. All the extras were dressed in Halloween outfits and were the crowd at the KISS show.
For a full report of our two days on set check out the next issue of FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE, on sale at the end of October - just in time for Halloween!
http://www.nextlevel.com/firehouse

KISS Online.net MAC Registration
From: MetalMike
Ok, Macintosh users, KISSONLINE.net has fixed the registration. Here is the email I received this morning: "Procedures have been set in place to support the KISS CD as originally planned. MAC users who call the Technical Support center at 877-800-6575 and identify themselves as KISS registrants will be manually configured on line with the representative. This process requires that the users have MAC OS-8 or higher."

"In Your Face" MP3
From: Robert Fletcher
Wanted to send you the address for the the MP3 file of "In Your Face." You can also download the Collector's Version of "Raise your Glasses", and the re-mix of "I was Made For Lovin' you" there as well. Go here to download those files: http://www.kissalive.com/~firehouse/psycho.html


September 28



KISS Rocks Against MTV
From: Entertainment Asylum (AOL)
Twenty-five years after they first appeared, wearing so much clown makeup that their features were completely obliterated, Kiss is back, looking not a day older, thanks to all that makeup. They're not just showing up at nostalgia concerts, as they have been over the past couple of years. Suddenly, it's the '70s again. There's a new album (Psycho Circus, out today), their first in two decades. New dolls. A tie-in with Pepsi. A concert at 55,000-seat Dodger Stadium on Halloween (to be aired nationally on Fox). A world tour. Guest appearances on TV shows (Millennium on Oct. 30, Mad TV, the next night). A new movie from New Line, Detroit Rock City. A press conference at Mann's Chinese (yesterday, where they announced all of the above).
The only thing different from 1973 is that they've added a Web site www.kissonline.com (KA Note: this is the wrong URL, it is www.kissonline.net) to their hype array and the album, too, is enhanced for the PC. They also say that this time around they're in 3-D. Meaning, you have to wear special glasses in order to see all the effects at their concerts or even to watch their latest video, which has a lot of guitar necks and Gene Simmon's tongue poking you in the face.
So far, however, MTV is refusing to air the video, causing the band to post the notice "This Page Is Anti-MTV" on their home page (KA Note: This messege is on the kissonline.com fan webpage NOT on the "official KISS webpage" of www.kissonlin.net). Another page refers cryptically to "Problems showing a 3-D video." But it's all nothing more than a glitch. They were arguably the most successful band of the '70s. And they're determined to repeat that success once more. Even their most ferocious detractors would probably be unwilling to bet against them.

Millennium Filming Today
From: almosthuman99@geocities.com
Today on CFOX (Vancouver's FM Rock Station) they said KISS was filming their parts for the October 30th episode of Millennium in full Battle Gear. Unfortunately it is a closed set so now fans can go & watch.

KISS in Vancouver
From: Steve Araki
Just read in this morning's Vancouver Province:
"Fan Alert: KISS is in town today to film an episode of Millenium. The entire band - playing themselves - will be at the Rage this afternoon between 1 and 2." The Rage is a club in Vancouver.

Win Paul Stanley Guitar At Chicago Expo
From: Stephen Campbell
Washburn has donnated a new Paul Stanley signature PS100B guitar to be given away at The Chicago (Oct 4 Hillside Holiday Inn), Toronto (Nov. 1 Queens way Lions Center) and Philadelphia (Nov. 22 King Of Prussia Holiday Inn) Expos! All you have to do is show up and fill out a ballot and wait to hear your name called.
The Chicago Expo is all set. Bill Aucoin and Sean Delaney will particiate in an awesome Q&A session. Bill Aucoin will also be promoting his incredible new CD BILL AUCOIN - 13 CLASSIC KISS STORIES! Creatures Of The Night perform with their incredible stage. KISS dealers from all over. It will be as great day.

KISS in Hit Parader
From: Brett Meyer
KISS is on the cover of Hit Parader this month. The cool part--2 different covers! (1 Gene and 1 Paul) Totally cool. There are 4 individual pin-ups in the mag and a poster of the band. Also, there are some full page ads. There is a Gene interview and a group history (with a lot of bad research and incorrect facts). The funny thing is they say that Psycho Circus is platinum! Well, at least it's not another Marilyn Manson cover.

KISS on Compilations
From: Bob Rodrick
I wanted to make mention of two new compilation albums that contain Kiss music. First is "Stone Cold Metal," an album compiled by World Wrestling Federation champion Stone Cold Steve Austin, containing all of his favorite hard rock songs. Included here are TWO Kiss songs (Kiss is the only band on the album with more than one song): "God of Thunder" and "Detroit Rock City." Second is a new Halloween compilation titled "Halloween Rocks" which includes "Creatures of the Night."

Cheap Trick on KISS
From: E! Online
After the Thursday concert, Niesen recounted opening in the late 70s for dino-rockers Journey and KISS. "We opened for KISS at the Forum when Gene's hair caught on fire. A little guy ran out with a towel to save him. And Bun E. almost had to drum for them. Peter Criss was so high that they asked [Bun E.] if he would put on the makeup and pretend to be him." What of the famous "got my KISS records out" line from "Surrender"? "They were the lamest, most famous band we could think of," said Zander.


September 26



KISS Press Conference Transcript
From: Tuck Watts
I made arrangements to receive the satellite feed of the Press Conference and here is a transcript of the interview segment we received. It is not the full Press Conference Transcript though. The questions were edited from the feed, but the answers are transcribed below.
The curtain rises. The Psycho Circus begins. Out of the shadows ominously step four-larger-than-life figures adorned in shining black leather, metallic studs and sequins, wearing colorful kabuki makeup. The legendary KISS is back and primed to collectively deliver a meteoric blast of supersonic, life affirming rock and roll.
After the group's #1 grossing tour of 1996-97, KISS are making dreams come true once again for the KISS Army, with Psycho Circus, their first new studio album in almost two decades, featuring all four original members - Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. With a KISS New Line Cinema movie in the works and other sundry exciting projects on the horizon, it's a great time to be a KISS fan again. Thirty-one albums and counting, KISS are still the master of the stage and kings of the party!
Rock and roll all nite and party every day. KISS is back! Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss are back in makeup and back in record stores today. Psycho Circus is the first new studio album in almost two decades featuring all four original members. KISS has sold over 75 million albums in it's 25 year career.
Psycho Circus will feature a special 3-D cover and is an enhanced CD which will launch computer users onto KISSonline.net. The Psycho Circus tour will kickoff on Halloween at LA's Dodger Stadium. The show will feature cutting edge 3-D technology. Tickets go on sale Saturday, September 26 at 10am at all Ticketmaster locations. To kickoff the release of Psycho Circus, the band held a press conference on Monday, September 21 at Mann's Chinese Theater in Los Angeles. At the event fans were shown a new KISS video in 3-D, which will soon premiere on MTV. On October 20, KISS will release the Psycho Circus home video featuring two versions of the single (regular and 3-D).
Click Here To Read the Interview/Transcript!

KISS Online.net News / PC Multimedia News
From: Kevin White
I received an e-mail this morning from MasterWorks Marketing, the company that organized KissOnline.net and the enhanced CD explaining the incompatibility issue. They said that it was not Arachneweb.com's fault and asked that frustrated fans not blame them for the problems. They also said they have people working on getting Macs online as we speak, and they apologized big time for the delay - they want everyone to know they simply ran out of time when developing the interactive CD. Apparently, it will be resolved sooner than three months, and they promised to post more information ASAP on the KissOnline.net page.
I was very pleased that my complaint was able to travel all the way to those that needed to hear it! Thanks a lot to everyone at KissAsylum for giving the fans an outlet to voice their opinions. I've attached a copy of the letter I got from MasterWorks for everyone to read.
Click Here To Read The Letter!

FMQB: Psycho Circus Chart News
From: KISS Asylum
KISS' Psycho Circus moved up from #5 to #2 this week on the Hot Trax 100. There were 2 more ADDS for Psycho Circus this week brining their total ADDS to 199. Psycho Circus is #5 in the Top Albums category and is #3 in Most Increased Plays per Week with a +463 spins. "Psycho Circus" is STILL the #1 most requested track in the country!

More Psycho Circus Chart News
From: Bob Rodrick & Chris
"Psycho Circus" (the song) is currently #2 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Radio charts. This is Kiss's highest charting rock radio hit in 20 years. "Psycho Circus" is up to #6 and #5 on the R&R Active Rock and Rock charts still with bullets on each.

Move Over Ringling Bros.
From: Pollstar Online via Craig Morrison
KISS celebrated the release of its new album with a monster press conference at Mann's Chinese Theatre in Los Angeles September 21st. Psycho Circus, on Mercury, is the first KISS album in 20 years to feature the original line-up of Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. The press conference was open to fans, too, and the KISS army lined up early in the day to secure entry to the event, which featured a viewing of a 3D music video and a Q&A session with the band. KISS announced its upcoming Psycho Circus World Tour will start with a Halloween show at Dodger Stadium. No other dates were announced. The Smashing Pumpkins will open the Halloween show but will not appear on the rest of the tour. Along with the usual fake blood and pyrotechnics, the tour will utilize 3D effects. The Dodger Stadium date will be broadcast live on the Fox Network, so don't be surprised when you see KISS on the October 30th episode of the Fox show "Millennium" or on "MAD TV" the night of the show.

Dodger Stadium KISS Seating
From: Kevin Coughlin
I just checked with Ticketmaster online and the Dodger Stadium seating plan shows the stage in center field with reserved floor seats running 12 - 13 sections across the field in three seperate tiers, going back as far as second base. No tickets will be sold in the infield area. There also may be some obstructed view seats sold behind the stage as well.

Atlanta KISS Expo 99
From: rockaroller@juno.com
I just found out that there will not be an Atlanta KISS Expo this year. However, the *tentative* date for the '99 Atlanta KISS Expo is Sunday Feb. 7th!

Psycho Circus Book
From: Julian Gill
Just picked up Psycho Circus Book 1 (ISBN 1-58240-011-3) which is "repackaging" of the comics, issues 1 through 6, in one volume. It has a retail list for US$12.95.
Click Here To View The Cover!


September 25



Billboard Online Poll: Kiss Army Marches On
From: Billboard Online
A quarter-century after they first put on their platform boots, smeared their faces with grease paint, and rocked out heavy-metal style, the members of Kiss can still count on their army of fans. Or that's at least what Billboard Online's latest poll surmises. When visitors to the Voting Booth were asked which album released Sept. 22 in the U.S. would debut the highest on The Billboard 200, 48.7% of the 3566 respondents chose Kiss' "Psycho Circus" (Mercury), the group's first new material in 20 years. The sixth solo set by R&B renegade Keith Sweat, "Still In The Game" (Elektra), received 27.3% of the vote, while comedian Jerry Seinfeld's Universal debut, "I'm Telling You For The Last Time," was the choice of 19.2% of the constituency. Crooner Chris Isaak came in last, with 4.8% believing his "Speak Of The Devil" (Reprise) would come out on top. For the album's actual debut positions, check back at the site Oct. 1.

For Halloween, Pumpkins and KISS or Treat
From: USA Today Life
Every day is Halloween in the Kiss universe, but this year the costumed glam-rock icons will pucker up for what's described as a "3-D concert" at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. The Smashing Pumpkins open the Oct. 31 show, which launches a tour promoting the release of Psycho Circus, the first studio album by all four original Kiss members in nearly 20 years. The show, simulcast on radio's Album Network, will be sampled on Kiss Live: The Ultimate Halloween Party, a Fox special Oct. 31 at midnight (live ET, tape-delayed PT). Never ones to decline clever P.R., Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss will appear as themselves (you were expecting a string quartet?) in a Halloween episode of Fox's Millennium Oct. 30 at 9 p.m. ET/PT. The band's ultimate enticement? A contest to give away the Kissmobile, a $75,000 custom-made black sports car based on the Plymouth Prowler. It has Kiss floormats, embroidered seat inserts and loads of macho options. And it hauls a music-box trailer carrying a stereo, a remote-controlled 10-disc CD changer, a drum machine, Marshall guitar amplifier, 12-channel mixing console and three compartments for guitars. -- Edna Gundersen

3-D KISS Glasses
From: John P. Gibbons
Here is a scan of the Dodger Stadium Halloween show KISS 3-D Glasses. Jerry Cornish points out that those particular glasses were "free" in this week's edition of the "LA Weekly". They more than likely are *not* the actual glasses for the show since the main reason they were inserted in the issue to begin with was to *view* the full-page 3D version of the Dodger Stadium Advertisement - which looks rather cool, I might add.


September 24



Kiss Coming To Every Screen In Town
From: MTV News via Steve Araki
Ace Frehley in 3-D!
In addition to announcing recent tour plans, Kiss has shared with the world their plans to invade Fox Television, who will feature the band in no less than three broadcasts in the coming months. The band's management confirms that Kiss will be in Vancouver in the very near future to film an appearance in a Halloween episode of the Fox series "Millennium." The episode will air on Friday, October 30, and will feature Kiss as themselves. The band will be seen performing "Psycho Circus" in a club setting, supposedly taking part in a 'B' horror movie shoot based on a case that the lead character, Frank Black (Lance Henriksen), had previously been involved in. Sources close to the production reveal that the band may also appear in cameo roles in that same episode, sans make-up.
The night after their "Millennium" appearance, the band will appear on an episode of Fox's Saturday night sketch comedy show "Mad-TV" that will immediately precede a Fox live Kiss concert special from Dodger Stadium dubbed "Kiss Live: The Ultimate Halloween Party." Tickets for that October 31 Dodger Stadium show will go on sale this Saturday and are priced at $75.
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!


September 23



KISS: "The Second Coming" Home Video
From: KISS Asylum
According to a Rocktropolis.com article, the KISS "Second Coming" home video will feature the 1996/97 Alive Worldwide tour and behind the scenes footage with 135 minutes on two tapes and a 38-page booklet. The video hits the stores Nov. 17.

Understanding KISS
From: The Province (Vancouver, B.C.)
By Tom Harrison, Rock Reporter The Province
How do you produce the institution that is KISS? If you are Bruce Fairbairn, it helps that you've produced the most successful albums in the careers of Aerosmith and Bon Jovi as well as multi-platinum albums for AC/DC, Van Halen and other KISS contemporaries. You're not going to be intimidated by the KISS mythology or the wide-ranging industry the group has built from it. It helps that you don't know too much about KISS's music and aren't a fan. You're not going to be awed by the group's records or its unimpressive record sales. Thus, the real Bruce Fairbairn met the real men behind the mythology, Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. He said: "Boys, you've got 30 albums but only five songs that anyone can remember. Here's a chance to move ahead sonically and with good songs." They said: "We need a benevolent dictator. We need someone who has the balls to stand up to us or we'll run right over you." With that understanding, Fairbairn has produced Psycho-Circus, probably the best-sounding album in the KISS catalogue, containing some of the least and most KISS-like songs the group has ever written.
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

Kiss Talks Charity, TV, And Ass Kicking At Press Conference
From: MTV News via T.J. Woods
KISS At The Press Conference
[MTV Real Video 28.8]

Kiss promised to feed the world, invade Fox television, and, of course, kick ass at a press conference heralding the new "Psycho Circus" era of Kiss lore. The band turned up at Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood on Monday to trumpet next week's release of "Psycho Circus," and roll out details of the tour extravaganza and the publicity onslaught that will accompany it. In addition to well-reported tidbits about the tour having a 3-D component, a televised concert special on Fox, and their own Internet Service Provider, the band actually managed to deliver a few bits of news at the press gathering. Most notably, the band said that its upcoming Psycho Circus tour would benefit the Feed The Children organization, and that they hoped to gather 30,000 pounds of food over the next ten months for the cause. Of course, fans needn't worry that this is the beginning of a more politically aware Kiss. "No more bands whining about how miserable their lives are. We're going to bring fun back to rock and roll. You deserve it," bassist Gene Simmons loudly declared during the conference.
Click Here To Read the FULL Report along with More Real Video!

Prelude To A KISS Tour: Originals Release New CD
From: NY Post Online
By Lisa Robinson
THEY'RE baaaaack. The reunited original members of Kiss are back with a new album, an upcoming tour and all sorts of plans for all sorts of ways to make their usual beautiful dollar. Out today is Psycho Circus, the first studio album since 1979 with all four original members: Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss.
Kiss will begin what they refer to as a 3-D World Tour starting on Halloween at Dodger Stadium (with opening act Smashing Pumpkins for that date only), and there are the inevitable plans to release Kiss products and a Kiss movie to take us into the next millennium. And today, at Colony Records (Broadway at 49th Street), Kiss guitarist Frehley judges a Kiss look-alike contest to help launch the new album.
Obviously there are dozens of Web sites for Kiss fans. Check out the Kiss Asylum site for new album and tour news, official merchandise and an ambitious, state by state, sophisticated plan for fans to call radio stations to request the band's new single: www.kissasylum.com

KISS Launches Multimedia Blitz
From: E! Online via Steve Araki
by Marcus Errico
Hide the kids, the KISS Army is mobilizing. And there's no escape. The original members of the gleefully shamelessly glam band--Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss--complete with their monster makeup of yore, will be embarking on a blood-puking, fire-spewing, stage-exploding national tour beginning, appropriately enough, with a Halloween night concert at L.A.'s Dodger Stadium. For this tour, the gimmicky band promises yet another gimmick: 3-D. Concert-goers will be issued special specs to view eye-popping effects on and around the stage. And, keeping with the theme of their latest album, Psycho Circus (available Tuesday), all performances will feature real carnies and acrobats. "We promise you this is going to be a kick-ass show!" Stanley proclaims. "We're issuing a challenge to every band that's been coasting for years, we're raising the bar," growls Simmons. "We're going to bring fun back to rock 'n' roll."
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

Kiss Unveils Psycho Circus Plans In Hollywood
From: Rocktropolis via Steve Araki
The Top Five things Kiss said Monday (Sept. 21) night at Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood: 5) "In the next 10 months we're gonna feed 10 million people... Reach into your pockets. We have real tight pants on, but we reached into ours!" (Paul Stanley) 4) "We want to bring the fun back to rock and roll. You deserve it!" (Gene Simmons) 3) "We'll be the first band to do a 3D show and it's gonna blow your minds. Buckle up for the ride of your life!" (Peter Criss) 2) After giving the band's Web site address (kissonline.net), Stanley asked Ace Frehley to tell the folks about their enhanced CD. The confused Frehley responded, "That's it."; and the No. 1 quote of the night: "I'm not, like, a hog, I'm the whole pig up here!" (Paul Stanley). This is Spinal Tap? No, it was the Kiss press conference to announce their upcoming plans to the press, but mostly, to a theater full of die-hard Kiss fans, many donned in that famed black and white makeup and yelling out, "We love you, Ace!" every few minutes. The plans include the Tuesday (Sept. 22) release of Psycho Circus, their first new studio album in about two decades with all four original members -- Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss; the Psycho Circus world tour, which kicks off on Halloween at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles with the Smashing Pumpkins; spots on Fox-TV's shows Mad-TV and Millennium; the TV special Kiss Live: The Ultimate Halloween Party, airing from Dodger Stadium; their new Web site; a charity tie-in; and the forthcoming new New Line Cinema movie, Detroit Rock City.
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

Something Wicked This Way Comes
From: RollingStone Online via Steve Araki
The Kiss Army was out in volume if not in force on Monday -- unable to fill the main auditorium of Mann's Chinese Theater in Hollywood, but still able to make themselves heard, chanting "KISS, KISS, KISS, KISS, KISS." Decked out in Kiss regalia from throughout the band's career, the fans came to hear the new album and see the premiere of the 3-D video for the album's title track. But what they really wanted to do was see Kiss. KISS, KISS, KISS, KISS, KISS. The band had a lot to talk about: the new album Psycho Circus; a new tour kicking off Halloween night at Dodger Stadium; a 3-D video; a movie, Detroit Rock City, due out next summer; a new Kiss credit card; a new line of action figures; and finally, a Kiss Internet service provider -- www.kissonline.net -- regardless of the fact that most of the crowd wouldn't be trusted to work heavy machinery, much less a sophisticated piece of equipment like a computer.
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!
YOURTURN: Are you still interested in Kiss?
Rolling Stone wants your opinion on KISS and has provided a place for people to leave messages. If you don't like the tone of this article and want to give them a piece of your mind then CLICK HERE and go to the bottom of the article to post your thoughts.

KISS' Psycho Circus Plots Takeover
From: Music Axis Music News (AOL) via T.J. Woods
by Sabrina Kaleta
Kiss' Paul Stanley proudly announced "It only goes up from here" at the launch party held at Mann's Chinese Theater for the band's new album and tour, Psycho Circus. But where can it go from here we wondered? The mind boggles. More bombastic than you can imagine and twice as fun, the launch party/press conference/fan event was already as big as they come. Looming two stories high in the courtyard in front were inflatable plastic likenesses of Gene, Ace, Peter, and Paul that were complete in detail down to the rock icons' chest hairs. Lines around the block of rabid Kiss Army hordes prayed for entrance (the first 800 were lucky). Many more stood behind barricades across the street, just marveling at it all. Major movie premieres have come with less hoopla. Inside the event, cast members of Fox's MAD TV riled up the crowd by announcing that Kiss would host the Halloween edition of their show, which would be followed immediately by the Fox live telecast of Kiss' Dodger Stadium tour opener (tix go on sale Saturday). Then, we got to listen to the new album (which is big, stupid and supremely rocks) in it's entirety, accompanied by video footage of the guys, including the world premiere of the 3D video for "Psycho Circus" complete with our special KISS logo 3D glasses.
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

Kiss Tell All About New LP, Halloween Pumpkins Show
From: SonicNet
Click Here To Read The Article At SonicNet


September 22



KISS Psycho Circus Released Today!
From: KISS Asylum
As if anyone did not know, the KISS "Psycho Circus" album was released today. Go out and get it! It sells for a "list price" of $19.99 (the additional cost is for the enhanced portion of the CD) but you may be able to find it on sale for $14.99 at selected outlets. You can also order Psycho Circus online here at CD NOW.

KISS Car
From: Alan Mooney
Here is the infamous KISS Car, "the Prowler." Click the picture for a larger image.

KISSOnline.net Problem With MACs
From: KISS Asylum
KISS ASYLUM talked to one of the representatives of KISSonline.net today about registering at KISS Online. Apparently there is some sort of problem which ONLY affects MAC users ability to register and use KISSonline. We were told that it will be THREE MONTHS until this problem is resolved. PC users can connect to KISSonline.net right now. For MAC users like us at KISS ASYLUM this really stinks and wish that those in charge of KISS Online would have resolved this problem months ago! :-(

KISS Kick Off the Psycho Circus with Guitars in Space
From: Spin Online via KLT4725@aol.com
Kiss celebrated the release of their Psycho Circus album with an appearance at the Mann Chinese Theater in Hollywood on Monday. The event, which was hosted by Fox Television's comedy series Mad TV, treated 800 lucky fans to a special 3-D Psycho Circus video (glasses that enabled one to envision Ace Frehely's guitar shooting off into outer space were distributed inside the landmark theater). The Psycho Circus album was previewed and original members Gene Simmons, Ace Frehely, Paul Stanley, and Peter Criss took questions from the press and leaked a little info about their future plans. The band revealed that they will begin shooting the feature film Detroit Rock City in early November. As far as the Psycho Circus tour, the only confirmed dates thus far are two stadium shows: a special Mad TV Halloween show on October 31 at Los Angeles' Dodger's Stadium (with one-shot openers Smashing Pumpkins) and December 31 at The Pontiac Silverdome in Detroit, Michigan (to be broadcast on Dick Clark's New Year's Rockin' Eve). Kiss plan to encourage the Psycho Circus tour attendees to donate food to the Feed the Children program. We'll continue to update you on any additional KISS info as details come in.

KISS Fires Up Marketing Guns For New Album, Tour
From: Yahoo Entertainment news
By Dean Goodman
HOLLYWOOD (Reuters) - Vowing to "challenge every band that's been coasting for years and years," Kiss unveiled its new album, 3-D music video and world tour before hundreds of excited fans Monday night. Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Peter Criss and Ace Frehley turned up at historic Mann's Chinese Theatre in full stage regalia to pose for photos and take questions from the press and fans. They were accompanied by the "Kissettes," four bikini-clad women in Kiss makeup. The event took place the day before the release of "Psycho Circus" (Mercury), the first new studio album by the group's four original members in nearly 20 years. Drummer Criss, who left the group in 1980, and guitarist Frehley, who departed in 1982, rejoined the band for its 1996-97 reunion tour as employees. The new 10-month world tour kicks off Oct. 31 with a special Halloween show at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Fox will broadcast the performance for 30 minutes at midnight (ET/PT), live for East Coast viewers. Immediately beforehand, Kiss also will guest star on Fox's ''Mad TV" sketch comedy series. The Smashing Pumpkins will be the opening act for this first concert. "The most important thing that we're doing right here, right now is we're throwing down the gauntlet,'' Simmons said, in between checking his makeup in a vanity mirror. "We're issuing a challenge to every band that's been coasting for years and years. "We wanna raise the stakes yet again, we wanna give you what you deserve, which is no more bands whining about how miserable their lives are. We're gonna bring fun back to rock 'n' roll! You deserve it!"
Click Here To Read The FULL Article!

KISS Press Conference Report
From: KISS Asylum
The KISS Press Conference has come and gone. KISS Asylum got a bunch of reviews from fans that attended the event. Click Here to read all the reports we received and see what the fans thought of the event or check below for a quick mini recap of the things we learned at the Press Conference.

  • 2 people from MAD TV hosted the show.
  • They played the album and showed video clips of KISS on big screens.
  • Psycho Circus 3-D video was well received. There were a lot of band shots and not as many shots of the "KISSets" as Gene likes to call them. Check the fan reports for more detailed information on the video.
  • KISS came out and posed for a bit and then answered questions from media and fans.
  • The Press Conference lasted about half an hour.
  • KISS has linked itself to the "Feed the Children Organization." They said they would feed kids about 30,000 pounds of food to needy kids for the next ten months while on tour.
  • The had new inflatable KISS blowups but the star on Paul's face was on the wrong side.
  • KISS will host MAD TVon October 31st and they will cut into the show with live concert footage.
  • KISS will be playing in Detroit at the Silverdome on New Years Eve and will be on Dick Clark's Rockin New Years Eve show again where they will be shown live and give away the KISS "Prowler" car.
  • Everyone there got cast as "extras" for the Detroit Rock City movie. They will begin shooting on November 6th. Apparently KISS will be cutting a new version of Detroit Rock City, plus a couple new tracks for the movie.
  • Tickets go on sale this Saturday (9/26) for Dodger Stadium. Ticket prices being $75.

    KISS Press Conference Photos
    From: KISSalive.com
    See a few of the photos from the Press Conference.
    http://www.kissalive.com/kapics/98/98.html

    KISS Coverage on E! News Daily
    From: TonyinJC@aol.com
    I just watched the E channel and I saw footage of the KISS press conference on the show "E News Daily". They showed all the fans lined up outside. They also showed Gene Simmons saying "We are sick and tired of all the bands who keep complaining about life". "We are gonna bring fun back to rock n roll because you deserve it."

    KISS Movie/Video/TV Guide News
    From: John Clark
    Just wanted to let you know, I was at the show and spoke with a guy that said he was either and associate producer or asst. producer. He confirmed the casting that you at KISS Asylum reported a while ago and confirmed the 3-D concert effects. He said that they tested the effects at irvine meadows and they went off great. He also mentioned that TV Guide will run four different covers during halloween time to promote the fox special. It is reported that FOX will take live feeds of the show and air them, possibly on average of every third song. If you want to be in the new movie, call 1-310-967-6850 to get placed on the casting list as an extra, the filming will take place Friday Nov. 6, 1998 at the LA Sports arena at a time to be announced. It is imperative that you wear 70's era clothing. The movie is set in 1978. They specifically mentioned no Marylin Manson shirts.

    Misc. KISS Images
    From: KC and AJ
    Here are some interesting images for your enjoyment:

  • Detroit Rock City movie casting advertisment
  • KISS Car Sweepstakes advertisement
  • Full Page Psycho Circus Halloween Dodger Stadium advertisement in the LA Times
  • Psycho Circus Single Hype Sheet

    Bruce Fairbairn on Vancouver Radio
    From: Glen Harris
    Bruce Fairburn (producer of Psycho Circus) was on Vancouver radio station CFOX just minutes ago. My friend Dave got on and asked him if there were other musicians involved on this album and just how involved Kiss was on the album. His reply was that other than bringing in some extra sound enhancements here and there the four members were completely committed to the album. He said that at one point he introduced some horns into a track and Gene walked in the room and his reaction was of a "What the hell is this crap?" attitude. He did make comment at one point that Ace and Peter are basically "employees" of Gene and Paul. He said that just in case things ever went south Gene and Paul do have ultimate power to step in. My question was in regards to the song content of the album. I asked if the band brought many songs to the table or if it was a struggle and his reply was "A little of both". He said his main focus was to not just take the first 10 songs but to try and put and album together of 10 great tunes that would capture Kiss in their best light. He also gave me indication that he had final say as to waht was put on the album but that the band had much say in it as well. He was just there to make final decisions so that the band members would not be fighting over tracks etc.
    Now here's the coolest thing. He said that the entire band will be in Vancouver (if they aren't already) to shoot an episode of Millennium, which is shot right here in town. I will be doing my best to try and track them down....but that could be easier said than done.

    KISS Psycho Circus Reviews From Norway
    From: Finn Haakon Rodland
    The two biggest newspapers here in Norway have now reviewed the new album from KISS, and they both gave it 4 out of 6, which is pretty good because the newspress here really don´t like Kiss at all. They usually write a lot of crap about how bad Kiss is, and that they are pathetic. But today, the headlines are " the dream about super-Kiss", and "selfconfident circus artists". Great!!

    KISS in Billboard Online
    From: James Spidle
    KISS are featured in the latest Billboard Online(www.billboard.com). Psycho Circus is the first album under "Hot Products". The Voting Booth question is "Which of these albums do you think will debut the highest on the Billboard 100? Chris Isaak, KISS, Jerry Seinfeld or Keith Sweet" Result from 1686 voters: Chris Isaak 5.5%, KISS 46.7%, Jerry Seinfeld 20.2% and Keith Sweet 27.5%.


    September 21



    KISS Press Conference
    From: KISS Asylum
    The KISS Press Conference will be held today (9/21) in LA at Mann's Chinese Theater, 6925 Hollywood Blvd. at 4:00 p.m. The first 880 fans in line will receive wristbands, enableing them to attend that evening's KISS VIP listening party for the new CD, Psycho Circus, the world premiere of the new 3-D Psycho Circus video and of course the exclusive press conference with the band members announcing the Halloween show. All KISS fans at Mann's Chinese Theater on Monday (not just the selected 800) can have their name and phone number taken down for the chance to be a extra in a scene from the KISS movie "Detroit Rock City" that will be shot in Los Angeles in early November.
    There will be no TV, radio coverage or live Internet stream of the KISS Press Conference. Any fan that happens to attend the event and wants to give KISS Asylum an accurate, detailed report on the press conference is more than encouraged to do so.

    Sony Signatures Renews Tour Merchandising Rights
    From: Entertainment Wire via Gary Garbett / KISSin Time USA
    Sony Signatures is proud to announce that the legendary rock band KISS has renewed its agreement with Sony Signatures for tour merchandising rights and general licensing rights. The agreement will cover ongoing licensing and merchandising as well as products surrounding the band's upcoming Psycho Circus World Tour. KISS' renewal of the agreement comes on the heels of its Alive Worldwide '96-'97 tour -- the number one grossing tour of 1996 - 1997 and its licensing and merchandising program managed by Sony Signatures. Setting an unprecedented standard, Sony Signatures' 1996 - 1997 KISS merchandising campaign garnered more revenue in retail and concert merchandise than any other musical act. The program won Spencer Gifts' "License of the Year" award in 1997 and the Licensing Industry Merchandiser's Association (LIMA) nominated Sony Signatures' KISS program for both "License of the Year" and "Licensee of the Year - Hard Goods" (for the popular KISS Action Figures by McFarlane Toys). "The overwhelming success of our previous KISS program points to Sony Signatures' ability to work in both the retail and concert tour arenas with record-setting results," said Joseph Bongiovi, Vice President of Music Licensing and Marketing for Sony Signatures. "We are able to bring our licensees up to another level of creativity and the result is phenomenal, with products appealing to several generations of KISS fans."
    Click Here To Read The FULL News Report!

    KISSonline.net is Open
    From: Shane R
    Thought I'd let you know, if you already didn't know, that the kissonline.net site (KISS' official website) is up and running. You can even register and get a user name. I was able to get into the members section. A marquee across confirms the halloween show. The sections are News, Live (hear and see all netcasts), message boards, archives (pics from band members, rare interviews, songs), FAQ, reports, store, links, and Kontests(exclusive to kissonline.net). Right now you can go to all the individual pages, but really there is no content. But, you can at least reserve the user name you want! There are tons of dial up numbers to choose from in every state. Or you can access the site over the internet through your ISP.

    KISS Quotes from KISS Hell
    From: Joe / KISS Hell Online
    KISS MASTER QUOTES - Recently Gene $immons & Paul Stanley returned questionairres to KISS HELL confirming the following KISS news &information. A few things responded to by GENE $IMMONS included:

  • (on what's going on with KISS?)
    "ALBUM..CAR..TOUR..MOVIE..WEBSITE..LONG FORM VID..ETC...ETC..."
  • (What basses did Gene use in the studio for PC?)
    "PUNISHER + COMING SOON? THE AXE"
  • (OnPunisher Amp?)
    "PUNISHER AMP SHOULD BE OUT NOW! BY AMPEG-ITS A MONSTER"
  • (On PSYCHO CIRCUS?)
    "WE ARE VERY PROUD OF PSYCHO CIRCUS... PETER AND ACE ESPECIALLY BLEW US AWAY WITH THEIR PLAYING... I HOPE EVERYONE LIKES THE RECORD AS MUCH ASWE DO."
  • (On where the PC tour will visit)
    "WE ARE TAKING A LOOK AT KOREA, CHINA, HONG KONG AND THE FORMER IRON CURTAIN COUNTRIES."
  • (On the next home video?)
    "THE VIDEO WILL BE DOUBLE LENGTH, TWO VIDEO PACKAGE... OUT BY XMAS."
    A few answers from Paul Stanley included:
  • (About the new Washburn model guitar?)
    "I Designed it from the ground up-It's awesome and I will only play it on tour."
  • (on PSYCHO CIRCUS CD?)
    "You tell me about it-You know what I think."
  • (A message for the readers of KISS HELL?)
    "We are proud of everything we've been doing-I know you will-PAUL STANLEY."

    KISS Hell Issue #30 Out Now
    From: Joe / KISS Hell Online
    KISS HELL #30 Out NOW! 44 Pages of Pure F**king Hell! Including: A color Gene $immons collage cover, all new Q&A's with Gene $immons & Paul Stanley, Eric Singer Interview, KISS/Beatles article from Larry Blake-over 100 similarities in print! Chapter 3 of new Comic Story (full color), Detroit Expo., NJ Expo., Paul Stanley Mars Music Review, the Fractured Mirror Story (by Bill Baker), Fan Profile & more. $6 for latest issue (#30). $20-yearly subscriptions. Payable to Joe Degraffenreid. KISS HELL, 503 Willis, Noble, OK, 73068. *Back issues Available Now; #10, #15, #20, #22, #24 #25, #26, #27, #28-$5 each, any 5 for $20.

    Hard 'N' Heavy Magazine on KISS
    From: Tristan
    The September issue of the French hard rock magazine "Hard'N'Heavy" gives half page advertising for the upcoming KISS album "Psycho Circus" which proudly announces : "For the first time since 20 years, a new studio album brings the four original members together : KISS, Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Peter Criss; Psycho Circus an album-event produced by Bruce Fairbairn (Aerosmith, Bon Jovi, AC/DC); out on the 21st of September !" The french mag gives also a good article about the McFarlane KISS toys and above all... an excellent critic of the Psycho Circus album (4 stars out of 5); here's a summary : "We were waiting for the worst, we got the best, could we say about the new Kiss album. The four guys have found again their good old creativity, but fit perfectly to our actual times. To be realist, in Europe and France, only a few believed in the re-union of the original KISS... but the 96-97 tour was a big success, Peter and Ace didn't die of heart attack and there is now a new album... and a great one. Psycho Circus is full of material that shows KISS can be subtle when they want it (Into The Void, We Are One, Dreamin', Journey Of 1000 Years), full of absolutely irresistible rock'n'roll numbers (I Pledge Allegiance To The State Of Rock'N'Roll, Raise Your Glasses). But where KISS are far beyond the most optimistic hopes is their instrumental maestria : the four are simply great and best than ever. Psycho Circus is the album of a solid united group. Those who despite all can still hate KISS are going to suffer a lot...".

    Australian Psycho Circus CD Single
    From: Andrew Slaidins

    Just received news that Polygram Australia is releasing a second version of the Psycho Circus cd single on September 28, only this time with a poster !! The information sheet that came from Polygram stated : THE CD SINGLE OF "PSYCHO CIRCUS" IS AVAILABLE WITH A LIMITED EDITION POSTER FEATURING PAUL, GENE ACE and PETER - AVAILABLE WHILE STOCKS LAST. The track listing is exactly the same :
    1 - PSYCHO CIRCUS (radio edit)
    2 - RAISE YOUR GLASSES (collectors version)
    3 - PSYCHO CIRCUS (album version)
    4 - I WAS MADE FOR LOVING YOU (7.56min dance remix)
    I can assure you that this will be very limited. Anybody interested in obtaining a copy of this single please e-mail me at sladesatktp@bigpond.com before September 28, it comes at a cost of US$ 9-00 excluding shipping. I accept payment by internatonal money order or visa/mastercard.

    Mercury's Danny Goldberg Leaving?
    From: Sven Isaksson
    Just wanted to share some news I got yesterday concerning Mercury boss (and KISS supporter) Danny Goldberg. He has been asked to leave the company, and it is probably a result of Seagrams purchase of PolyGram, which will result in the merger of Universal Music and PolyGram. Jon Bon Jovi (Mercury recording artist) has been quoted "I wouldn't hand in an album at this time for all the tea in China", due to the uncertanties of what key executives will remain in the company.
    KA Note: We have no confirmation on this story

    News from David Snowden Promtions
    From: David Snowden
    For everyone who has preordered the Japan PSYCHO CIRCUS CD's - they will be here on the 25th and ship as soon as they arrive. It takes 1 week before they arrive in the US after the release date (Sept 18th).
    NEW KISS 20 PAGE COLOR CATALOG will be available from David Snowden Promotions, Inc. in 3 weeks!!! This catalog includes lots of new KISS PSYCHO CIRCUS items including: Puzzle, coins, t-shirts, and more! Plus new stickers, magnets, ALIVE II Gold Record, shot glasses, removable tattoos and A LOT more stickers. Request your catalog today to receive it as soon as it's available at: http://www.kissshop.com

    New Zealand Psycho Circus KISS Party
    From: Dean Williams
    We are planning a huge night at PAPA JACKS , AUCKLAND CITY on SATURDAY SEP 26 from 8pm, to get ready for the New Zealand release on Sep 28. There will be giveaways , competitions , LIVE KISS music , videos and of course the album in its entirety. We hope to see the Kiwi KISS Army there in force. For Auckland fans. Listen to HAURAKI 99FM for your chance to win a trip for 2 to Dodger Stadium in LA for the opening night of the PSYCHO CIRCUS world tour. This promo starts the first week of October.


    September 18



    Psycho Circus Video
    From: KISS Asylum
    A few weeks ago KISS ASYLUM received word that the Psycho Circus video was set to premiere on MTV Sept 15th. As of now we have yet to receive any proof that the video has been premiered. According to some people that have talked to MTV, they have not even heard of the video! It could possibly have been pushed back but we are not sure. What we do know is that the video in its initial stages was to have females in it all airbrushed with KISS themed images all over their bodies. KISS was not supposed to be in the video but did decide at the last minute to shoot some footage of them in the video on August 30th in LA. Because of this they may have pushed back the video premiere date but at this time we are not certian. As mentioned before, people that are able to attend the KISS Press Conference in LA will be able to see the video at that time if they have not seen it already.

    Inside The Circus: KISS Video "Psycho Circus"
    From: KISS Asylum
    Sid & the Psycho Circus Girls
    KISS ASYLUM has a special treat for everyone! Robert Spencer and Nathan Woosley (the airbrush artists that did all that great work on the girls) will be giving KISS ASYLUM a special behind the scenes look at the making of the Psycho Circus video. We will have lots of photos along with an interview with these great guys. To the right is a picture of Sid, the art director along with some of the Psycho Circus girls. Be on the look out for this exciting look inside the Psycho Circus later next week!
    In a conversation Robert had with KISS ASYLUM he was quoted as saying, "I have all the rough sketches of the designs we drew to paint the girls: one like Gene one like Paul and one like Ace and one like Peter. Instead of having the makeup on their face we painted it real big on their bodies. We also invented alot of characters for the shoot 17 total: 2 guys and 15 girls. Gene wanted something really weird not of this earth. So we created characters and the art team came up with a wayout storyboard that blew me away. Put it this way this company that is doing the 3-D tech is a one of a kind. The director/producer is the only guy in the world that can do this type of 3-D. You know KISS they do everything first class. The KISS Army will be blown away." Robert also wanted to mention the other members of the team: Michelle Patton was the hairstylist, Mellissa Rait and Lynette Silverman were the makeup artists and we were a team called "all about makeup."
    Special thanks to "fry" for the picture.

    KISS Psycho Circus Review in Entertianment Weekly
    From: Paracon3@aol.com
    Kiss is still strong, even to this day. The article reads as follows:
    "Reunited, and it rocks so good. The first album by KISS' original members in two decades sounds like it was recorded two decades ago--thank god: The choruses are so headbangingly huge and the guitars so overdubbed into excess you'd think they recorded the album in their makeup. This is rock with a capital "R," captured in all its cheesy glory (who else would record a song called "I Pledge Allegiance (to the State of Rock & Roll)"?). This new effort proves that in the circus of hard-rock dinosaurs, KISS remain its Barnum & Bailey. A-" -- Matt Diehl.
    There is also a side bar that talks about the concert Oct.31st. It reads:
    SCARY ROCKERS OF THE WEEK. Smasking Pumpkins and KISS.
    "These monsters of rock are reportedly discussing teaming up for an L.A. Halloween show. Gee, what do guys who wear scary makeup all the time ( not to mention a dude who looks like Uncle Fester) wear to a Halloween party? Look for more info from E.W. in the coming weeks."

    KISS Psycho Circus Press Release From Mercury
    From: Mercury via Dean Meeham & Lynn's KISS Dominion
    Gene Simmons -vocals, bass
    Paul Stanley -vocals, guitar
    Ace Frehley -vocals, lead guitar
    Peter Criss -vocals, drums
    The Fans wanted us to play, we hear and we obey - You Wanted The Best.
    The curtain rises - out of the shadows ominously step four larger-than-life figures adorned in shining black leather, metallic studs and sequins, and wearing colorful kabuki makeup. The legendary KISS is back and primed to collectively deliver a meteoric blast of supersonic, life affirming rock and roll. It's a great story. Gene, Paul, Ace and Peter are really four bums off the streets of New York who had a dream and started following that dream on the yellow brick road and literally found the pot of gold and the answer to all their prayers at the end of the rainbow, asserts Gene Simmons. After the group's #1 grossing tour of 1996-97, KISS are making dreams come true once again for the KISS Army, with Psycho Circus, their first new studio album in almost two decades featuring all four original members --Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. Worth the wait! Expertly produced by Bruce Fairbairn (Aerosmith, AC/DC, Bon Jovi), Psycho Circus is a glorious rebirth for the fantastic foursome, a grand moment of blood, sweat and spirited, high-decibel rock and roll. No wax works replica, Psycho Circus is the real living, fire-breathing article, a fierce declaration of everything KISS stands for. While the album can't help but recall the group's classic 70's sound, it is also a brave and gargantuan head-first leap into the 90's.
    Click Here To Read the FULL Press Release!

    Be An Extra in "Detroit Rock City!"
    From: MetalMike
    Not just the first 800 fans, but all KISS fans at Mann's Chinese Theater on Monday can have their name and phone number taken down for the chance to be a extra in a scene from the KISS movie "Detroit Rock City" that will be shot in Los Angeles in early November.

    Psycho Circus Released In Japan
    From: Yoshiko / KISS Asylum News Japan
    Psycho Circus was released today on 9-18 here in Japan, after all ! Fortunately I went to the CD store today just to check, and found they were already in stores. It says on the package that it is the special package only for the Japanese version. It says "pop-up 3D jacket which is entirely different from the US version." To be honest with you, I don't think it is very cool, though. It's no plastic case, and made of paper and some pieces of sponges. The bonus track "In Your Face" is included as the 11th track, and KISS screen saver and the program to access KISS website are also included (I haven't tried them yet).
    In addition, there is the information on "KISS PSYCHO CIRCUS HALLOWEEN", which is the special event in Japan.
    1) There is a number printed on the translated lyrics sheet, and some of them will be the 'lucky numbers'. 800 people will win T-shirts and 500 people will win pin badges (I'm not sure what they are like). The 'lucky numbers' will be announced in the magazines in Nov/Dec.
    2)Starting on 10-31-98, there will be a special one-week event named "KISS PSYCHO CIRCUS HALLOWEEN" at Hard Rock Cafe in Japan (there are four of them).

    Musicland/Sam Goody "Psycho Circus" Promotion
    From: Mike Hogan
    Musicland/Sam Goody stores will be giving away KISS collector pins with purchase of the new album. The pins are of the KISS logo; metal, painted in red and yellow. The pins will be available while supplies last as each store has recieved a minimum of ten pins (depending on the volume of the store). It's recommended to reserve your copy of "Psycho Circus" at a Musiclan/Sam Goody and request the collector pin when doing your reservtion. On the back of the pin there's "1998 KISS Catalog Ltd." stamped in the metal.

    Camelot Music "Psycho Circus" Promotion
    From: William Sherman
    Camelot Music will be giving out a Psycho Circus magnet with purchase of the new KISS cd. I do not know if their other stores, The Wall and Spec's Music, are doing the same.

    Hootie Plays KISS
    From: X442Driver@aol.com
    Hi everyone, in today's (9/18) edition of the New York Post, a review of last night's Hootie and The Blowfish concert at the Roseland Ballroom club revealed that Hoot played a KISS tune! The quote is as follows..."For the dubious in the house who may have thought that the Hoot-men only know from mush, the guys offered a surprisingly terrific near-metal cover of the mid-'70s Kiss rocker hit Calling Dr. Love during the second encore set. For that one, Rucker (the singer) kept his tongue to himself but still managed to edge his otherwise smooth delivery with gritty rock tones." The fact that the reviewer made a Gene Simmons reference without saying Gene's name only proves that the Demon truly is universal! Gotta love Hootie!

    Sweden Psycho Circus Party
    From: Johan Kihlberg
    KISS ARMY SWEDEN & POLYGRAM RECORDS is proud to announce the official "PSYCHO CIRCUS" release party at the Starbar club in Stockholm, SWEDEN. Monday September 21 at 8.00 in the evening. There will be a midnight release for "PSYCHO CIRCUS" in Stockholm. Most of the music stores in Stockholm will release the album Monday 21 at midnight. Other music stores will release it on September 22.


    September 17



    Official KISS Website: kissonline.net
    From: KISS Asylum
    It appears that the official online KISS website is located at www.kissonline.net As one can tell from visiting the website it is not operational at this time. Perhaps it will be operational on Septermber 22nd, the day of the album release.

    Psycho Circus Back
    Psycho Circus Album Artwork
    From: Mats Vassfjord
    Today I finally got my copy of the Psycho Circus album. Complete with all the artwork and screensaver. I have to say it looks very cool, but it's not 3-D, like they made us believe. It looks just like the Ozzfest-cd if anybody remembers that one. You move the cd and the picture changes. And the same happens when you take the actual cd out of it's tray. And the texts and stuff is not in a booklet, instead it's a foldout. Complete with merchandise list, of course! (Always trying to bring in those extra cash, right?) The screensaver is nothing out of the ordinary. It's artwork from the album floating around in different sizes and forms. But before you install it, there are some very cool soundmessages from the band. There's also a sticker on the front that says: This is an enhanced cd with KISS Psycho Circus Screen Saver. All in all, a very cool cd.
    I also bought the cd-single the other day, and there are two different versions out here in Sweden: One 2-track with paper-cover, and one fourtrack with regular cover. the songs are: Psycho Circus (Edit) and Raise Your Glasses (Collectors Version) on the 2-track, and on the four track they added I Was Made (7:54) and Psycho (Album Version). The Collectors Version of Raise Your Glasses sounds very different from the album-version. The sound is crappier, like a demo outtake. It's slower, and it seems to be a different take than the one on the album.
    Click Here To View FULL Large Pictures of the album Front, Back, CD, CD Tray, Lyric Sheet Pull Out and Merchandise Sheet

    Lyonne rocks with Kiss in 'Detroit'
    From: Steve Corral
    By Benedict Carver and Andrew Hindes
    HOLLYWOOD (Variety) - After successfully slumming it in Beverly Hills, hot young actress Natasha Lyonne has signed to star in the coming-of-age comedy ``Detroit Rock City.'' The New Line Cinema project is about four teens who'll stop at nothing to scam their way into a sold-out Kiss concert in 1978. She is turning heads as the lead in ``Slums of Beverly Hills,'' an arthouse picture also set in the 1970s. Shooting on ``Detroit Rock City'' begins in mid-October, with ``Mouse Hunt'' and ``Small Soldiers'' screenwriter Adam Rifkin directing. Band members Gene Simmons, Peter Criss, Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley will play themselves in the picture. Lyonne, whose credits include Woody Allen's ``Everyone Says I Love You'' and ``Dennis the Menace,'' just wrapped shooting on Universal Pictures' ``East Great Falls High.''
    Would You Like To Know More About The Movie? Click Here!

    "Psycho Circus" Premiere Broadcast
    From: Sean Cowie
    I listened to the Psycho Circus broadcast this evening and thought that I would offer up the following synopsis of the events that occurred for those who missed it.
    They played 8 out of the 10 songs from the album (the only ones that were missing were "Dreaming" and "We Are One."). The band played coy about the impending tour often referring to the fact that "if we were to tour", it would be better than anything they have ever done. Paul did mention, though, that the carnival atmosphere is definitely NOT going to be done. It was an idea that the band's manager, Doc McGhee, has had for years and thought KISS would be the band to manifest that idea.
    Paul announced that the press conference is green-lighted at Mann's Theater in Los Angeles on September 21st. At that time, more details will be revealed and confirmed regarding tour dates/venues, the KISS movie, etc.
    The KISS car was outlined throughout with the telephone number featured prominently where fans can enter a draw to win a KISS car. By calling 1-900-225-5547 (CALKISS), fans can enter this contest between September 22nd and December 1st, 1998 at the price of $1.99/per call. The car is said to come with one of Gene's Punisher basses, a Paul Stanley Washburn guitar, one of Ace's guitars and a drum machine (sorry, Peter!) with a jack in the dash to plug the guitars into. The KISS logo on the dashboard will illuminate when drivers press the brake pedal!
    The KISS ISP was also briefly touched upon. Paul stated that while he admired any fan who puts up a KISS website, he claims that, like the KISS Conventions, the band can do it better. The CD was confirmed to contain a screensaver, the hotlink to the band's official website (kissonline.net), as well as some other goodies.
    Ace and Peter both seemed happy and lucid which could dispel the ugly rumors that they are both dabbling once again in illicit substances. Ace's familiar cackle was heard throughout the interview. Relations between the guys also seems excellent with Peter declaring his love for being back in KISS.
    As per usual, Gene dominated the interview with the "KISS as Divine Entity" shtick that he usually peppers interviews with. Overall, the interview was very interesting but unfortunately we weren't treated to anything that we didn't already know.

    Best Buy KISS Cards Promotion
    From: Chris
    Here's the details on the KISS cards you can get when you purchase Psycho Circus at Best Buy. The cards are wrapped in clear plastic with a sticker on the package stating the following:
    Free with purchase of Psycho Circus KISS CD! -not sold separately- KISS Collector Cards from Cornerstone! Call 800-846-7725 for your free catalog.

    KISS To Play New York In December
    From: LIKissfan@aol.com
    Sheila Richman at Mercury in New York has revealed that KISS will be performing in their hometown of New York City in December of this year. The dates have not been set, but will be released at their press conference Monday night (9/21) at Mann's Chinese Theater.

    ESPN Radio KISS Sighting
    From: John Gibbons
    I was driving into work today and heard a radio commercial for an ESPN televised football game that used KISS as a metaphor. It went something like, "KISS is the last great rock band. Sure there are other bands but KISS rocks. They spit blood, breath fire, etc." It went on to then compare the two football teams to KISS.. It was really out of left field, but cool regardless..


    September 15



    Reminder: Psycho Circus World Premiere Broadcast
    From: KISS Asylum
    A week ago you first heard about the Psycho Circus World Premiere Broadcast here at KISS Asylum. We wanted to remind everyone about it again since it happens tonite. Here is the info once again:
    "The Album Network Broadcast department wants to know if your ready for the Circus....KISS! and the world premiere broadcast of "Psycho Circus" via satellite on Wednesday, Sept 16th 1998 at 9:30 central time. The show lenght is 90 minutes. Its the original four KISS members in the studio unveiling "Psycho Circus," their first album together in 18 years. We'll also have details on teh upcoming world tour and the custom KISS car sweepstakes.
    So make sure to set your tapedecks to record this event. Over 135 stations have signed up to receive this broadcast. Currently where KISS Asylum lives we will not be getting this broadcast so we would appreciate any fans that listen to the show to send in any information/news that KISS announces on the broadcast. Thanks!

    "We Are One:" Second Single?
    From: Mercury Records Czech via Robert
    Mr. Charles Kucera from Mercury Records Czech Republic informed me that the album comes out here officially on September 28th and that the second single will be "We Are One", with an official released date of November 9th. He said they will be putting even more effort in it and try to make every radio station to rotate it very frequently. He also said the company will receive official interview CDs that will be recorded at the press conference to be used for promotion in media.

    Advance Order "Psycho Circus"
    From: CDnow
    You can advance order KISS' new album, "Psycho Circus" and have it on your doorstep the day it is released. Click Here To Order!

    KISS: It's Not All Foundation & Lip Gloss
    From: Dotmusic.com via Anthony Thornton
    When Kiss came together in 1973, band members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss wanted to stage the ultimate rock'n'roll spectacle. Now, 75m worldwide record sales later, the original four are back together in make-up and costume. Moreover they are back on course to fulfil their ambition with a new album, Psycho Circus, and a live production to top anything from their past. Fans old and new will get their first sighting of the "greatest show on earth" at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on October 31. Providing support for this Halloween event are Smashing Pumpkins plus the Psycho Circus itself a full-scale carnival that Kiss manager Doc McGhee has long wanted to bring into the rock'n'roll arena.
    "Without doubt, this is the biggest thing I've ever been involved with," says McGhee, whose previous managerial credits include Bon Jovi and Motley Crue. "I feel like I'm juggling 60 chainsaws... any one of which could kill me!" Over the past two decades, Kiss have set the pace in a number of areas, be it building an international fan club (the Kiss Army) or gaining profile via sponsorship and merchandising. And now the band have jumped, stackheels first, into the world of 3-D.
    "Never again will there be a bad seat in the stadium," says bassist/vocalist Simmons, fresh from appearing in the video for Cheated (To All The Girls), the forthcoming UK single (released on September 28) from Fugee Wyclef Jean. "We have cameras that will project live 3-D images of ourselves onto giant screens, so the show will actually be in 4-D / 3-D with live performance on top."
    Would You Like To Know More? Click Here!

    KISS in Metal Hammer Magazine
    From: Chris Ingham, Metal Hammer Magazine
    You might be interested to know that our most recent issue - October 1998 with Marilyn Manson on the cover ­ contains a two page interview with Gene. He talks about being back in the studio with the others, the KISS car, the upcoming tour and its all done with the usual Simmons bombast.

    KISS in Raygun Magazine
    From: Paul
    Just got back from Tower Records and found KISS on the cover of Raygun Magazine. I have not read it yet, but it's a good size article with some new pictures of the boys. It also comes with a poster. There's also an entry form for some sort of KISS contest.

    More Info on Psycho Circus Best Buy Promotion
    From: Chris
    I just heard from a manager at a local Best Buy. If you purchase "Psycho Circus" there, they'll include a set of KISS trading cards. From what he said, it will be a limited 9 card pack.

    KISS Unplugged on DVD
    From: adowdall
    Just announced. Polygram Video will be releasing KISS MTV UNPLUGGED to DVD on November 3. This is great news for KISS fans who support the DVD format. They didn't say whether it has been remixed to 6 channel Dolby Digital or if it is just stereo.

    Black Diamond Books On Amazon.com Charts
    From: Dale Sherman
    "I've asked Chris to give me this chance to thank everyone that have bought BLACK DIAMOND and BLACK DIAMOND 2 over the past year at the Amazon.com website. With your help, you have pushed both books on to Amazon's TOP 50 ROCK BOOKS chart! This week, BD1 is at #24 and BD2 is at #50! Knowing that Amazon.com is one of the biggest sellers of books in this country, to rate so high on their chart is just amazing to me! Thanks, one and all!

    More News on 24" KISS Dolls
    From: Ananymous
    Here is the complete scoop on the 24 inch KISS dolls. They will be 149.99 each. The autographed set will sell for 1,200 and will be limited to 24 sets! As stated earlier they will each sing a song from "Destroyer." They will aslo be wearing Destroyer/Psycho Circus outfits. You can pre order them now but they won't ship until Late november early December. Also available soon is the Psycho Circus Throw rug, Pick Sets, and the new make-up kit that comes with stencils and a WIG!

    Czech KISS News
    From: Mike / KISS Asylum News Czech
    Today I recieved from PolyGram Czech an "PolyNews" - Magazine for radio stations (I worked as a Head Of Programing in a local radio station Relax 92.3FM, 97.4FM, 103.4FM) with actual releases from PolyGram. On the front cover Gene (´98) with the front cover of the new Psycho Circus album with date of release here in Czech (Sept. 28, 1998).

    "Psycho Circus" #9 in Norway
    From: Jon Georg Husby I just want to let you know that here in Norway the Psycho Circus single was released Monday September 7th, and makes it's debut this week at number 9 on the officiall Norwegian top 10!

    KISS Artist on TV Guide Cover
    From: Pete Sanfacon
    TV viewers who own the current "Fall Preview" issue of TV Guide will notice that the artist who created the cover of that issue is Michael Doret. He is the artist behind one of the most popular album covers in KISS' catalog, ROCK AND ROLL OVER. There is no mention of KISS, however, in the cover credits.


    September 14



    Patrick Vick's Digital Art Gallery
    From: KISS Asylum
    Patrick Vick is well known in the online world as one of the best online KISS artists from his work which is featured at the great KISS Eye Kandy webapge! Now you can see also see his work here at KISS Asylum in the monthly feature, Patrick Vick's Digital Art Gallery! Each month Patrick will be submitting a new piece of artwork created just for KISS Asylum for all to enjoy!
    Click Here To See His Latest Digital KISS Art -- A KISSsterogram!

    KISS Army Attack!
    From: Warren
    The Las Vegas KISS Army is going to picket KOMP 92.3 studios on October 9th at 7:00 a.m. & force them to play a KISS weekend! The Las Vegas KISS Army even has a tank from the Nevada Army National Gaurd! Pictures and a full report coming soon here at KISS Asylum

    Canadian Broadcast of Psycho Circus Album Premiere
    From: Rock Radio Network
    KISS are launching their new disc, PSYCHO CIRCUS, to their Canadian fans on the Rock Radio Network (RRN). The 60-minute special will be heard on the best rock stations across Canada via the RRN on Tuesday, September 22 - the day the record hits the stores. The URL is http://www.rockradionetwork.com. Our network flagship station Q107 Toronto, will be running the show on Tuesday the 22nd at 11:00pm eastern.

    Blockbuster Music Psycho Circus Promotion
    From: Alfred Savage
    Just to let you know, I work for Blockbuster Music and we will be giving out a KISS comic book to the first 30 (aprox.) people who buy the new cd or cassette at our store! The comic is 'Psycho Circus' #1 August 1998, fouth printing!! It has the same ads in the back as the latest KISS comic, #12! What can you say, this is just a great bonus for people who shop at BBM as long as they get there early! As far as I know, most (if not all) BBM stores around the country will have the comic! The amount each store has depends on that stores volume, location and other factors. Make sure and get to BBM on the 22nd and get totally 'Psycho'!!!

    KISS Psycho Circus #12
    From: KISS Asylum
    The new issue of the KISS Psycho Circus comic came out in stores last week. It is part 3 of the Destroyer Arc. In addition to the comic itself, there ads in the back of the comic for the KISS Psycho Circus "Tour Edition" Action figures. These figures are 12" tall with instruments and are similar to the KISS Psycho Circus action figures that were released in June. These Psycho Circus "Tour Edition" figures are supposed to be released in October. There is also an advertisement for the quarterly McFarlane KISS Psycho Circus Magazine. It will be released October 19th and will include 96 pages of great KISS coverage including exclusive photos and interviews. Don't forget to send in your letters to the Psycho Circus Comic Editors to: Psycho Babble, P.O. Box 27228, Tempe AZ, 85285-7228.

    24" KISS Dolls News
    From: Rev Marvin III
    OK, here is what I've been able to find out about the 24" dolls from Spencer Gifts. The 24" dolls go on sale the same week as PSYCHO CIRCUS and they should start advertising them in stores this week. I called the 800 number and was told that they are $149.99 each, or $1200 for a complete autographed set mailed to you. The number is (800) 445-9618 and you can pre-order with your credit card.

    KISS Jewelry At Spencers
    From: Joe / KISS Hell Online
    Just in at Spencers is the Sterling Silver KISS Jewelry Collection. The set has at least 10 different pieces from what I've seen; they have 4 separate necklaces for each member-w. round face designs & autographs ethed on the backs. There's a KISS ARMY necklace. A Sawblade Logo nacklace, there's also a logo (w. members faces inside letters) hologram nacklace. All these necklaces sell for $50 each. There's also a very nice logo bracelet that sells for $80. Earrings with the KISS logo are also very cool & are the lowest priced (& hardest to find!)-these are $15. There should be more additions to the jewelry set soon.

    KISS News From Russia
    From: Vladimir / KISS Asylum News Russia
    This is Vladimir Iliyn and I would like tot inform you that this month in Russia released all Peter Criss CD's:

  • 1. Peter Criss Solo Album, 1977. (The disc, front and back covers the same like original CD. On back cover have mark "Licensed to RIA".
  • 2. Out Of Control / Let Me Rock You, 1980/82. (Both remastered discs in one. The front cover and disc have beutiful collage from two original albums. On the back cover you can see song list for CD where lost 14 song.
  • 3. Cat#1, 1994. (The front and back covers are the same to USA version. The disc have nice printing with Criss logo.)
    The fans of Peter Criss in Russia get crazy. All rare, hard to find and most expensive CD's released at last in Russia this month. All the discs are officials and released by private firm called "Diamond Ltd". All discs looks most like originals verses except one "Out Of Control \Let Me Rock You. Both remastered discs in one. If you are intresting in it please contact: Vladimir Iliyn
    Click Here To View The Pictures!

    KISS Starlog Magazine
    From: MetalMike
    The second KISS magazine from Starlog is simply called "KISS" and will be on stands 10/27. It contains four exclusive interviews with the band. The publication is band-authorized.


    September 13



    Goldmine Interview With KISS
    From: Ken Sharp
    I wanted to pass on some news to you about my upcoming KISS feature which is slated to be a cover story in "Goldmine" (issue date November 20th # 478). The issue will hit newsstands around Halloween. Like my past Goldmine articles on Kiss, this is another very comprehensive piece which features extensive interviews with all four members, over six hours of interviews. I had a blast speaking to the guys about the new album, tour, their early bands, rare unreleased songs and much more. Gene also expresses his view on Kiss fans on the internet. I hope you'll be pleased with it when you read it.
    Click Here To Read The Amazing Goldmine Interview with KISS from 1996

    KISS Press Conference News
    From: MetalMike
    Attention loyal KISS fans-- now's your chance to rock 'n' roll all night (and party every day) with your heroes Gene, Paul, Ace and Peter! The first 800 fans in line at the Mann's Chinese Theater, 6925 Hollywood Blvd. on Monday, Sept. 21, at 4:00 pm will receive wristbands, enabling them to attend that evening's KISS VIP listening party for their new CD Psycho Circus, the world premiere of their new 3-D video and an exclusive press conference with the band members announcing a major event in Los Angeles with KISS and FOX.

    KISS "Psycho Circus" Video
    From: KISS Asylum
    KISS ASYLUM has gotten tons of emails from fans wanting to know the time the video will be shown. From what we were told a few weeks ago, the video was to premiere on MTVon September 15th. At the present time we are not sure whether the video will premiere on September 15th or not. Also we do not know of any "time" the video will be shown. Any information we get concerning this or any other Psycho Circus news we will post here and at Psycho Circus Central.

    KISS 24" Dolls from Spencers
    From: KISS Army Mailing List
    Talked with a friend today who called the number and ordered a set sight-unseen. He was told by the person on the phone that the dolls will sing:
    GENE - God of Thunder
    PAUL - Detroit Rock City
    PETER - Beth
    ACE - Shout it out Loud

    Paul Stanley Washburn on Musician Friend Catalog
    From: Steve Corral
    The lower line model of the new Paul Stanley Washburn guitar is on the cover of the new Musician's Friend Catalog. The URL is http://www.musiciansfriend.com/ but they don't have the new cover picture up yet or the order info. I just got it in the mail on Saturday. The inside has all three models listed; The most expensive (which he uses) lists for $2,499 and sells for $1,999 with a deluxe hardshell case. The middle one is almost the same, minus the ebony fretboard, better pickups and fretboard inlays for $769 (I think). I don't think it is made in Chicago like the previous model. The lowest model (on the cover) is $369 and comes with a gig bag. It has no binding on the body, different pickups and some other differences.

    KISS Video Spotlight
    From: KISS Asylum
    Commentaries, facts, poll questions and analysis on KISS Videos from throughout KISS' career! Issue #9 is up and the KISS 1983 Rio video is reviewed! This particular issue is very special because along with the review of the show, much of the Portuguese spoken in the video is translated right here for you to read for the first time! Check it out and relive this great concert all over again! Click here to read The KISS Video Spotlight!

    Halloween KISS Style?
    From: Jerry Cornish
    Los Angeles Times - Saturday, September 12, 1998
    There are more indications that the rumored Dodger Stadium Halloween concert by the original KISS lineup is a go, with the FOX network announcing plans Friday for a Sept. 21 listening party for the foursome's forthcoming "Psycho Circus" CD, along with a press conference that night "announcing a major event in Los Angeles with KISS and Fox." The Times learned in May that the reunited band had asked Dodger Stadium to hold Halloween night open for a proposed concert, and although there's still no official confirmation, a FOX broadcast of such an event would be likely since the company now owns the Dodgers and the stadium. Meanwhile, the Sept. 21 listening party at Mann's Chinese Theater will be open to the first 800 fans who line up that day for a 4 p.m. wristband distribution.

    KISS Tribute In Japan
    From: Mike Ruzek / KISS Asylum News Czech
    Yesterday I recieve an official release from Japanese PolyGram called "KISS TRIBUTE IN JAPAN." Here is the track list.
    1) The Yellow Monkey - Shout It Out Loud
    2) Diamnod Yukai - Deuce
    3) King-Show - Parasite
    4) Nomiya, Maki with Dimitri from Paris - I Was Made For Lovin' You
    5) Scudelia Electro - Beth
    6) Rolly (The Rockrolly) - Nothin' To Lose
    7) Kanako Nakayama with Red Kross - Hard Luck Woman
    8) Onda´s Boozer Brothers - Cold Gin
    9) Pugs - Detroit Rock City
    10) Psychodelicious - C'mon And Love Me
    Produced by Mercury Music Entertainment Co., Ltd. Distributed by PolyGram Japan (25.2.1998) (PHCL-5085). As always OBI (red) with lyrics. Booklet has 32 b/w pages with 2 pages with photos!! Booklet has hand written message from Gene and Paul.
    Gene: "From the land of the rising sun ... A KISS TRIBUTE ! What else can we say except it's a great honor - Domo-Gene Simmons"
    Paul: " Domo !! You have always been a special members of our family. Once again you make us very proud - Paul Stanley"


    September 11



    Pepsi.com KISS Webcast
    From: KISS Asylum
    KISS' Pyscho Circus premier show in LA on October 31st will be WebCast via www.pepsi.com Halloween night. The commercial indicating this was shown between the Best Rock Video and the Best Overall Video during the MTV Music Video Awards. Also, you can win a trip to Dodger Stadium Halloween night to see KISS from the front row!! To enter this contest log on to the web site at http://www.pepsi.com for a chance to win.

    KISS In New Metal Edge Magazine
    From: KISS Asylum & Glenn Ratner
    KISS is heavily featured in the new Metal Edge Magazine (December issue) that is due out in stores next week. We encourage everyone to go out and buy this cool issue. The interview is about 5 pages and talks about a lot of cool stuff. We don't want to ruin the surprises but to tide you over, here are a couple of interesting newsbits mentioned in the interview.

  • "Second Coming" Home Video is due Christmas '98. It is supposed to have a lot of behind the scenes stuff like video of the first time Ace and Peter came over to Gene's house to try on makeup for the first time before the reunion!
  • Metal Edge KISS Special magazine will be out in stores on November 3rd.
  • Psycho Circus Album: 20 songs were recorded. KISS wanted to have 12 songs on the album but Bruce Fairbairn said he thought 10 was good. Some of the songs recorded but not used was a song called "I Want To Rule The World," a song Gene wrote for Ace to sing. Another song Gene wrote that he really wanted on the record but it did not make it is "I Am Yours." Another song Gene wrote was a song called "Sweet & Dirty." It did not make it because it did not fit with the theme of the album. Gerri Miller asked Gene if they might use those extra songs on the "Detroit Rock City" movie soundtrack and he said it was possible.
  • Other intersting things in the magazine include: A centerfold picture of KISS in this issue and a one page "track-by-tack" album review by Gerri Miller. There are also page advertisements for the Todd McFarlane KISS Magazine as well as the 12" Psycho Circus "Tour Edition" Action Figures (they look similar to the Psycho Circus action figures but have instruments).

    FMQB: "Psycho Circus" Chart News
    From: KISS Asylum
    Here is the latest "Psycho Circus" chart news from FMQB. On the Hot Trax 100, "Psycho Circus" has moved up two spots to number 7. "Psycho Circus" had 9 new ADDS this week bringing to total ADD count to 183 ADDS. "Psycho Circus" was #3 this week in Most Increased Plays per week with a +196. And finally, "Psycho Circus" was the #1 most requested song in the nation!

    Keep up the great work KISS fans! Do you part and call/email the rock radio station in your area and request KISS. MAKE EM GO PSYCHO!
    http://KissAsylum.com/psychocircus/psychoradio.shtml

    KISS Kollector #26 -- Out Soon
    From: Joop / KISS Kollector Online
    The September issue (No. 26 - see picture of the cover) of the KISS Kollector magazine will be available soon. Not only does it include an indepth (p)review of the new album and all the news on the upcoming tour, as well as the fanclubtrip to the Halloween concert in L.A., but also part 2 of a recent interview with Eric Singer, a great article written by a Dutch rockstar - who spent three weeks at Gene's guesthouse in Beverly Hills - sharing his experiences with Gene (including reprints of several songlyrics they came up with), updates on bootlegs cd's, an exclusive interview with one of the ghostmusicians who played bass on several tracks on a KISS album and much, much more. The next issue of KISS Kollector will be another Eric Carr Tribute Special, in which we'll announce great news regarding Eric's Rockheads, so if you'd like to contribute something Eric-related please feel free to drop me a line: joopel@vpro.nl. The KISS Kollector magazine, by the way, was choosen the "Fanzine Of The Month" in this month's issue of the English magazine Record Collector.

    Paul Stanley Washburn Guitar News
    From: Bob Rodrick
    Paul Stanley's new Washburn guitars have hit the retail scene for the general public. What's cool is that it comes in three different styles: The PS-2000B, which includes Paul's signature at the headstock ($2,499 list price); the PS-500, with no signature ($1,249 list price); and the PS-100B, again no signature ($599 list price). For more info, call Musician's Friend at 1-800-776-5173.

    Chip Rock's Outtakes Coming 12/98
    From: Kiss4sale@aol.com
    OUTTAKES VOL. 1: KISS By Chip "Rock" Dayton-
    The name Rock is synonymous with all things wild and wonderful-and this "Rock" is no exception! For the first time, Chip "Rock" Dayton-concert photographer since the early 1970s-presents his wealth of work and his cherished memories in a series of awesome trade paperback books! This spectacular selection of crisp black-and-white photographs and dazzling full-color images is jam-packed with some of the most electrifying shots ever- including some NEVER BEFORE SEEN!
    VOLUME ONE is filled with Chip's personal accounts of his experiences with KISS on the road, on stage and behind-the-scenes including the never-before- published "lost" DYNASTY shots-photos that weren't developed until 20 years after they were taken! DON'T MISS IT!!
    Fans of Chip's stunning photography, as well as any KISS fan, will enjoy this full-size, trade paperback jammed with over 200 b/w & color pictures. FIRST PRINTING LIMITED TO 10,000 COPIES! Yours for only $24.95 each, plus $4.95 shipping and handling. SHIPS TO SELECT MUSIC STORES, BOOKSTORES, AND SPECIALTY STORES 12/10/98, JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS!!! Photos and text c Chip Dayton.


    September 10



    U.S. Psycho Circus CD Single
    From: KISSfanstv
    According to the Polygram October Release Book, the Psycho Circus single will be released in the U.S. on October 20th. There will be 4 different covers, each one representing a different band member (brilliant marketing lol) The B-Side is going to be the Gene written (Ace Sung), "In Your Face". Included with each single will be a videocassette of the new Psycho Circus video, along with 3-D glasses. Also, the single will have a cd-rom section where you can join Kiss' new internet service, as well as a screen saver. I am not sure if this will be the same screen saver that will be availiable on the full length cd or not. So people that don't want to shell out the 30 bucks for the Jap version of Psycho Circus to get the bonus track, wait till October 20th and just get the single.

    "Psycho Circus" International CD Single
    From: Florian Hedwig / KISS Asylum News Germany
    Here are scans of the "international version" (not Germany) of Psycho Circus Single. We in Germany will have a different logo. The release of the German Single is September 21st together with the album. Almost the rest of Europe will release the single on September 14th and the album on September 21th. Click the images below to view the larger pictures.
    Special Note: If anyone is interested in recieveing the Germany Psycho Circus Single (KIZZ logo) send 7 US$ for the CD + 8 US$ Shipping (Air Mail) as an International Money Order or in cash to: Florian Hedwig, Vorheider Weg 28, 59067 Hamm Germany. This is a service for all KISS Fans in the US, I am making no money with this.

    KISS Look-A-Like Contest In NY
    From: Christina Paluszek
    COLONY RECORDS HELPS KISS FANS AND ROCK'N ROLLERS REGAIN A BAND'S PAST GLORY IN A KISS LOOK-A-LIKE CONTEST
    New York, NY (September 2, 1998) . . . When was the last time you saw anyone dressed in full KISS regalia, including KISS? Or for that matter, when was the last time you dressed in full KISS regalia? (A Halloween costume doesn't count!) In the true spirit of rock 'n roll, Colony Records invites you to participate or just take in the sights at the Colony Records KISS Look-A-Like Contest to celebrate the release of the long awaited KISS CD, Psycho Circus. Contestants will be asked to dress up as their favorite KISS member - make-up and all - for a chance to win one of three KISS gift packs and more. The gift packs will include KISS memorabilia, a copy of the new CD and a gift certificate to Colony Records. The judges for this event will include celebrities in the radio and music industries, and even a famous hair and make-up artist! And don't miss the parade of winners up Broadway! This is a great photo opportunity!

  • WHAT: Colony Records KISS Look-A-Like Contest KISS fans will dress up as their favorite member and compete to win one of three KISS gift packs.
  • WHERE: COLONY RECORDS 1619 Broadway, New York, NY 10019 (corner of 49th Street and Broadway)
  • WHEN: Tuesday, September 22nd, 1998 12:00 noon - 1:00 p.m.
    For more information contact Christina Paluszek, Allison Mehr or Melissa Karp at A.G. Krakow & Associates/AgitProp, Inc. at (212) 343-3626.

    Psycho Circus Mainstream Rock Tracks News
    From: Julian Gill
    Check out the new Mainstream Rock Tracks Chart. Psycho Circus has moved up to #4.
    Mainstream Rock Tracks
    1. `` What's This Life For, '' Creed. Wind-up.
    2. `` The Down Town, '' Days Of The New. Outpost.
    3. `` Somehow, Somewhere, Someway, '' Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band.Revolution.
    4. `` Psycho Circus, '' Kiss. Mercury.

    FOX TV KISS News & KISS Tour News
    From: Peter Arquette
    KISS is tentatively negotiating sponsorship with FOX TV. Promos for the television station will include:

  • 1.5 hour show on MAD/TV.
  • 30 minute update of concert from FOX News on October 31 '98 at Midnight.
  • FOX on-air teasers October 11-28 in preparation for the Halloween show.
  • KISS theme incorporated in FOX primitive network shows, (yes, this means the Simpsons among others).
  • November 19, 1998 official start of tour
  • February/March 1999 first leg of North American tour ends.

    KISS Mention In "Details" Magazine
    From: Kenn Hoekstra
    The October issue of "Details" magazine features an album review of "Psycho Circus" in their Music section. The article also features a picture of the band. The review is a 6 out of 10 and the picture would be cool except for the fact that "Details," like most publications, reversed the negative on the picture and Paul Stanley's star is on the wrong eye.

    More On The Psycho Circus Radio Broadcast
    From: Clint Russell WXIL Radio
    The Album Network Broadcast Department is providing to radio stations for air wednesday sept. 16th the world premiere broadcast of "Psycho Circus." It is a 90 minute show that will begin at 10:30 est that evening. Here in Parkersburg W.V. you can catch it on 103.1 "The Bear" WHBR saturday the 19th. They are also providing the show on CD for stations that don't have the capabilities or due to scheduling can't carry it via sat. on wednesday. I'm sure other stations will be carry it around the country. And that's the skinny.

    KISS N' TELL More News
    From: KISS Asylum
    Gordon's new book "KISS N' TELL More" will be out in stores soon. Currently they are fulfilling all their backorders (and there are a lot of them) and as soon as they do that the book should hit the stores. PitBull Publishing has a new direct order phone line to order the book at 914-663-1464. Gordon will have the new book and the "Still Wicked" CD with him to sell at the New England Expo coming up this weekend. The KISS N TELL CD-ROM is still expected to be released in late September/October.
    Click Here For More KISS N TELL News and Info!

    Psycho Circus KISS Merchandise Report
    Psycho Circus Four T-Shirt
    From: David Snowden Promotions

  • FOUR WHO ARE ONE T-SHIRT
    New KISS Psycho Circus t-shirt featuring comic art on front entitled, "The Four Who Are One" printed on a navy blue t-shirt. Back Print: Makeup circle artwork. Adult sizes Large and Extra Large. Item FOTS. Sale Price: $17.99
  • PSYCHO CIRCUS FOUR T-SHIRT
    New KISS Psycho Circus t-shirt featuring comic art on front on black t-shirt. Back Print: Makeup circle artwork. Adult sizes Large and Extra Large. Item PFTS. Sale Price: $17.99
  • PSYCHO CIRCUS BLACK CAP
    New black baseball style cap with KISS Psycho Circus logo. Adjustable - one size fits all. Item PCBC. Sale Price: $20.00
  • PSYCHO CIRCUS WOOL CAP
    New melton wool green baseball style cap with KISS Psycho Circus logo. Adjustable - one size fits all. Item PCGC. Sale Price: $18.00
  • PSYCHO CIRCUS SKI CAP
    New chocolate knit si cap with KISS Psycho Circus logo. One size fits all. Item PCCB. Sale Price: $15.00
  • PSYCHO CIRCUS STRIPED SKI CAP
    New burgundy striped knit si cap with KISS Psycho Circus logo. One size fits all. Item PCSB. Sale Price: $15.00
    Click Here For More KISS Merchandise News
    Click Here To Order Official KISS Merchandise From David Snowden


    September 9



    KISS Entering Internet Access Business
    From: MTV News via Mike Hogan
    Kiss is boldly going where David Bowie has gone before. The made-up metal deities have announced plans to launch their own Internet Service Provider later this month to correspond with the release of their "Psycho Circus" album. For a monthly fee, users will be hooked up with Kiss-customized Internet access including unlimited web access, Kiss e-mail addresses, personal web pages, chat rooms, and more. The service will also serve up multimedia Kiss nuggets like news, auctions, contests, streaming video from the band's tour, live chats, and more. As we previously reported (see "Bauhaus, Ani DiFranco, Others Help David Bowie Launch Net Venture"), David Bowie launched a similar venture earlier this month that offers users similar fare, but with a decidedly Bowie flavor.
    Kiss' take on the world of Internet access will become available on September 22 when "Psycho Circus" hits stores. The software needed to sign up for the service can be found on an enhanced portion of "Psycho Circus," the first album from the original Kiss line-up in 20 years. The enhanced CD will also feature a Kiss screen-saver featuring art from the CD booklet.

    "Psycho Circus" Chart News
    From: Nick Summers - music director WMZK (Wausau,WI)
    We just got the advance sheet for top 50 powercuts from Album Network. KISS moved up to #7 on the chart! Can they go number one? Only one band ahead of them has a bullet marker (going up). The other 5 bands are on their way down, so KISS could make it number one. Creed's "What's This Life For" is at #1 now. Also KISS is most requested in the country again!!

    Pumpkins for KISS Halloween
    From: Wall of Sound via Steve Araki
    When you think about it, there really couldn't be a more appropriate bill for Halloween than the Smashing Pumpkins combo'd with the costumed, willfully horrific KISS. That's apparently going to be the scene this Oct. 31. Sources close to KISS have confirmed to Wall of Sound that the Smashing Pumpkins will indeed be taking part in the televised KISS show at Dodgers Stadium in Los Angeles on Halloween night. Additionally, an official at the Pumpkins' label, Virgin Records, speaking on the condition of anonymity, says the band's appearance is at least "95 percent confirmed." And if that wasn't enough, Metal Edge editor Gerri Miller tells Wall of Sound that Gene Simmons himself says the inclusion of the Pumpkins is a done deal.
    The show is a special presentation in advance of the full-fledged KISS road trip, again featuring original members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss, which officially kicks off on or about the 20th of November and continues for at least 200 dates. The reunited lineup was previously touted as the top-grossing tour of 1996. The theme this time around is Psycho Circus, also the title of the group's forthcoming album, due Sept. 22. The extravaganza is shrouded in secrecy, but details have been emerging on the various KISS Web sites. Audience members will be issued 3D glasses to view 3D effects on jumbo screens. The shows will contain circus performances (with an emphasis on "psycho"), and the costumes will be updated versions of their "Destroyer" garb. It remains to be seen whether the sands of time have taken their toll on Simmons and the rest‹but as it turns out, the world may never know. The word is the band members will not be doing any face-to-face interviews or fan meet 'n' greets without full makeup.

    Report: Smashing Pumpkins To Open For KISS
    From: TicketMaster Online via Steve Araki
    The Smashing Pumpkins, who kicked off their tour activity for Adore with an unannounced (though heavily rumored) opening slot for pop heroes Cheap Trick, are reportedly set to close out their tour action for the album with an opening slot on KISS' Halloween show at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles. Wall of Sound reports that several sources close to the acts have confirmed that the booking is in the works, though no official statement has yet come from either the KISS or Smashing Pumpkins camps. The show will be an early kick-off for the launch of KISS' world tour, and is expected to be televised. The Wall of Sound report adds that audience members at the stadium will be outfitted with 3-D glasses to take advantage of special effects to be shown on giant projection screens during the show.
    The show and tour will support Psycho Circus, the first studio release of the four original members of the band since 1979's Dynasty. Peter Criss left the band in 1980 to pursue a solo career, and was replaced by Anton Fig, now a member of the house band for the David Letterman show. After 16 years of floundering album sales and slowly dwindling concert attendance, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss re-joined the lineup in 1996 for an MTV Unplugged special and a follow-up concert tour. The tour re-established KISS as a concert industry force, grossing $43.6 million - the top grossing concert tour of 1996.
    The Smashing Pumpkins recently wrapped up their formal touring behind Adore. The tour played in primarily large theatres and small amphitheatres, with proceeds at every stop earmarked for local childrens' charities. Album sales have been disappointing, and frontman Billy Corgan has been outspoken about his frustration with fans that seem to be turning away from the band as they move into new musical terrain.
    In recent weeks, Psycho Circus was leaked to the Internet by several fan web sites, prompting a swift shutdown of the file downloads at those sites by the RIAA and the band's label. The album is set for traditional release on September 22nd.

    Psycho Circus Radio Special
    From: Steve Ponchaud
    I'm proud to announce that our radio station 93.1 & 94.1 FM K-ROCK in Iron Mountain, Michigan will be airing the Album Network KISS PSYCHO CIRCUS world premier special. Ace, Paul, Gene, & Peter in studio unveiling the new album. The special will air Friday night, September 18 starting at 8pm Central time during the K-ROCK ARENA (our weekly 3 hour hard rock spotlight show). The special is 90 minutes and the other 90 minutes will include your requests and plenty of classic KISS. Also you will have chances to win the CD before you can buy it. I found out about the radio special on KISS ASYLUM. Our listeners have you to thank for this very cool event.

    KISS News From Australia
    From: Matthew Miller
    Two newsbits here for everyone.
    First, the Psycho Circus single has been pushed back a week to the 14th here,(not sure why, radio has already started playing saying its release is the 7th but that has past now. Second, here is the information on the Melbourne Psycho Circus Launch Listening Party.

  • Edwards Tavern, 211 High Street, Prahran - Melbourne Australia
  • Date: FRIDAY 18 September 1998 Doors open 9pm
    Edwards Tavern is proud to host the exclusive Melbourne launch of KISS' new album PSYCHO CIRCUS..the first in 17 years featuring the re-uniting of original Kiss members Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Ace Frehely and Peter Criss. The night will be a celebration for Kiss fans to get together and join forces to pay tribute to the band that has been so influencial on rock music all over the world. KISS music will be piped into the club exclusively all night light in between bands with the main live attraction hitting the stage at Midnite. Melbourne rockers CYCLONE TRACY will perform thier show in KISS war paint (as recently seen on In Melbourne Tonight ~ Channel 9) with a host of Kiss covers spotted thru-out their set. Supports will come from Submission and Whisky Dogs. As well as the best of Kiss played throughout the night the complete Psycho Circus album will be played in full after the Cyclone Tracy set.


    September 8



    KISS Psycho Circus World Premiere Broadcast
    From: Nick Summers - music director WMZK (Wausau,WI)
    We got a fax at the radio station yesterday from the ALBUM NETWORK broadcast dept. The fax reads like this:
    "THE ALBUM NETWORK BROADCAST DEPARTMENT WANTS TO KNOW IF YOUR READY FOR THE CIRCUS......KISS! and the world premiere broadcast of "PSYCHO CIRCUS" via satellite on WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 16 1998 9:30 CENTRAL TIME. Show length:90 minutes. It's the original four KISS members (ACE FREHELY, PAUL STANLEY, PETER CRISS, GENE SIMMONS,) in the studio unveiling "PSYCHO CIRCUS", their first album together in 18 years. We'll also have details on the upcoming world tour and the custom KISS car sweepstakes.

    That is the info verbatem! the other info on the fax was very interesting and stunning! They (album network) gave me the ph.# for people to call for the car sweepstakes (1-900-CALLKISS) $1.99 PER CALL. And they gave the address for you to send post card entries. Kiss, P.O. Box 466, Parsippany, NJ, 07054-0466. The phone number won't be active 'till sept 22. And is good untill December 1, 1998. (I tried to call it, and it's not working yet.)
    Also another piece of good news is, If we at the radio station sign up for the world premiere of PSYCHO CIRCUS my station will get to air the KISS concert broadcast on Halloween!! Being the music director at the station I signed up right away and will also sign up for the concert event on Halloween.

    Buffalo KISSfest Report
    From: Chris Desing
    150 KISS fans get Krazy this past Sunday at Buffalo KISSFEST! UNION performed a full show (which sounded great) and they played for over an hour! Included in the set was I Walk Alone, Jungle, and a surprise- Cheap Trick's "Surrender". The band then signed autographs, and posed for photos with the fans. There was also a Q&A with Bruce Kulick where he was candid about his work with Paul on the Psycho Circus album, and his thoughts on Vinnie Vincent!! It was a great time and thanks to all the fans who showed up. Especially the fan who showed up from Tokyo Japan! That was pretty wild! Remember to check out the KISSFEST 98 webpage to see photos, realaudio highlights, and more from this years Buffalo KISSFEST! http://www.friedalive.com/fest98.htm

    KISS in Wizard
    From: Trevor McCoy
    Here's an excerpt from a Gene hype session out of the KISS insert booklet Wizard magazine included with their latest issue. It's not really new info, mostly just more hype, but it may confirm a couple of things. Here is the excerpt.......
    To even compare KISS's upcoming Psycho Circus tour with any other hyped-up concert tour makes Gene Simmons see red. "Ozzfest ripped off Lollapalooza which ripped off KISS," says the band's frontman and bass guitar player. "Anytime you do anything in rock'n'roll other than concerts, that's what KISS has always been about. When it comes to larger- than-life concert experiences, you always have to go back to the chicken and the egg. And KISS is it." Simmons isn't kidding around. When the Psycho Circus tour jump-starts on October 31st at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, He promises a show unlike any other. "This tour is going to change the way concerts are attended," says Simmons, who's never at a loss for hype. "It's going to be the first 3-D concert event. You get your tickets and your glasses and you're off into the Twilight Zone. This is going to be more than just an 'okay' show. 'Okay' is Hootie and the Blowfish. This tout is going to be 'Wow!'" But Simmons is tight-lipped on details. "There are certain things I won't tell you," he says. "It would be too much information too soon. Do you really want to find out what you're getting for Christmas in July? Well, neither do I." KISS fanatics might get an inkling when they buy the band's new album, appropriately titlted Psycho Circus, slated for release in September. "The album has a real 3-D concept to it's cover," relates Simmons, "and one of the tracks will give you direct access to our Web site which will give information on the Psycho Circus tour." Simmons explains that the Psycho Circus tour concept came from original band members, who reunited in 1996 after more than a decade apart. "It's 'Something Wicked This Way Comes' [a classic Ray Bradbury story] meets 'The 7 Faces of Doctor Lao' meets KISS," say Simmons, who finally stops to take a breath. "It's [patriotic composer] John Phillip Sousa marching off into the Twilight Zone." The plan is for the Psycho Circus tour to kick off with a multi-media event featuring a one-hour television special on the Fox network on a date to be announced soon. Tickets for the remainder of the tour dates will go on sale that day, as well. Simmons bites his toungue when questioned about the rumor that Psycho Circus will be an all-day event, but indicates that "a supplemental series of rides and things" will be added. Simmons promises that whatever other surprises may arise, the vibe will definitely be crazed. "Everybody wants to join the circus, leave your worries behind and go off into fantasy land," says Simmons, like a carnival barker. "There will be the clowns, the animal trainers and the trapeze artists. But the difference is, where KISS will take you, you'll never quite come back the same."

    "You Wanted The Best" At Shea Stadium
    From: BERNIBRONX@aol.com
    Shea Stadium piped in "YOU WANTED THE BEST" at the Met game a few nights ago. The giant scoreboard read "You Wanted The Mets," very very cool!! They played the first 2 verses and the chorus. Anyone who has never heard the song would figure KISS was singing "You Wanted The Mets!" This is sure to be a Shea Stadium staple!!

    "Psycho Circus" Climbs CDNow Charts
    From: robstar@webspan.net
    KISS "Psycho Circus" has climbed two notches from #16 up to #14 on CD Now's Top 20 albums, with the Top 10 in sight!

    Psycho Circus Competition
    From: Bob Rodrick
    With the excitement of the new album, added to the already fast paced hype machine and the new radio campaign, the potential is there for "Psycho Circus" to become Kiss's highest charting album in their career. Dare I even say it's quite possible for it to actually become Kiss's first ever number one album! However, I thought it would be rather interesting to find out what other major rock acts have new releases coming out the same day (September 22) in America. What acts would cause the biggest threat to what could be the greatest week in Kisstory?
    Would You Like To Know More? Click Here!

    KISS Merchandise Report
    From: David Snowden Promotions

  • Destroyer Radio [Click To View]
    New KISS FM auto-scan radio. Has retractable earphone, speaker, belt clip and external headphone jack. Requires two size AAA batteries not included. Item DSRD. Sale Price: $13.99 Due December '98.
  • Rock And Roll Over Knit Boxers [Click To View]
    'Rock And Roll' Over knit boxer shorts. Has KISS logo on waist band. Available in sizes M, L & XL. Item RKBX. Sale Price: $15.99 Due Oct. '98
    Click Here For More KISS Merchandise News
    Click Here To Order Official KISS Merchandise From David Snowden

    Australian Psycho Circus Party
    From: Wayne Kepler
    The Exclusive Album Launch for Psycho Circus will be held on Saturday September 19, 1998 at The Collector Tavern (cnr George & Smith Streets, Parramatta) from 8pm. As well as the chance to be among the first to hear Psycho Circus, KISSteria and Gyve will be playing, there'll be giveaways of promotional material (thanks to Mercury Records), stalls of old & new KISS merchandise, a trivia competition, and prizes for the best makeup & costume. Call the Collector Tavern on (02) 9689 1122, email meridianstar@hotmail.com


    September 4



    FMQB: Psycho Circus Chart Information
    From: KISS Asylum
    Psycho Circus moved up from 27 to #9 this week on FMQB's Hot Trax 100 chart. According to FMQB, "Psycho Circus" has added on 174 stations so far with 32 new adds this week. "Psycho Circus" was #1 in most increased plays per week with a +1199 and was #3 in most adds with 32. "Psycho Circus" is also the #1 requested song according to FMQB.

    More Psycho Circus Chart Info
    From: Lisa
    Here is some more Psycho Circus chart info!
    R&R industry trade paper Active Rock Top 50 Kiss #13 Total stations69/adds 10.
    Rock Top 50 Breaker #11 Total plays903/increase492 Total stations75/adds 12.
    Most increased plays Kiss #2 +521.
    Most added Kiss was #3

    Raise Your Glasses To KISS!
    From: KISS Asylum, KISS Otaku, KISS Freaks, KISS Alive.com, Lynn's KISS Dominion
    An attempt is being made to have the entire KISS Army, around the world, "Raise Their Glasses" in a toast to KISS at one time! Say at 12:01 am EST on 9/22 when the album is officially released. So let's get this started! We will need someone from each state in the US and each country outside of the US to head up getting your local KISS Army members together. You don't have to spend any money on this, just get together at a local bar, at someone's home, wherever you like! Spread the word. This isn't for just the online Army, but the entire KISS Army! If you are interested please email Mike Brandvold your name and location. He will assemble a list of the contact people from around the world. If you have a website or fanzine that wants to be part of this, also email Mike. It doesn't matter if you get two fans or twenty fans... after 25 years of delivering what no other rock band has, or will, KISS deserve to have our glasses raised!
    Click to the Raise Your Glasses homepage to see the list of fans from around the world who have said they would be the contact person for their region. Contact them about meeting and toasting KISS!

    Special Best Buy Psycho Circus Promotion
    From: RCJ
    I have found out that BEST BUY at this time has plans to sell Pyscho Circus with limited edition trading card packaged with the CD. They have a listing on their computer for it with the card but no actual number of how many copies each store will have available. BEST BUY sold "You Wanted The Best You Got The Best" with a limited edition phone card included when it was released and it was very successfull hopefull this will be the same.

    Japanese "Psycho Circus" Delayed
    From: Yoshiko / KISS Asylum News Japan
    The Psycho Circus album was not released on September 2nd. A friend of mine called Mercury Japan and a person at Mercury said it had been postponed. Now the scheduled release date is the 19th. And, there will be no 'Psycho Circus' single release here in Japan.

    Psycho Circus Single Tracklist For Europe
    From: Florian Hedwig / KISS Asylum News Germany
    Mercury told me the Psycho Circus Single tracklist for Europe:
    Psycho Circus (LP Version)
    Psycho Circus (Edit - Remix)
    I Was Made For Loving You (Remix 7:00 Version)
    Raise your Glasses (Remix)

    Kiss Reunion LP Leaked In Full On The Net
    From: Sonicnet.com via Julian Gill
    World Wide Web piracy taken to new evel as the flashy metal band's latest release is posted in its entirety. Staff Writer Chris Nelson reports: The first album in nearly two decades from the original lineup of costumed '70s op-metal rockers Kiss isn't due in stores until Sept. 22, but the highly anticipated 0-song disc, Psycho Circus, has already been making its way -- in its entirety -- round the Internet. While the past year has seen the unauthorized circulation of pre-released tracks from albums by major artists including Pearl Jam, Madonna and Eric Clapton, the posting online of an entire rock album as a series of downloadable audio files known as MP3s takes Internet piracy to a new level.
    Would You Like To Know More? Click Here!

    "Psycho Circus" #7
    From: MSSickman@aol.com
    Psycho Circus is ranked #7 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks Chart.

    "Psycho Circus" #16 at CD Now
    From: robstar@webspan.net
    KISS "Psycho Circus" is #16 on CDNOW's Top 20 album chart! And, it's not even out yet!

    Kerrang Psycho Circus Review
    From: Steve Beebee
    KISS "PSYCHO CIRCUS" (Mercury CD5589922)
    When Kiss finally answered their fan's prayers and reformed the original, make-up caked line-up for a series of spectacular shows after almost two decades apart, no-one questioned their judgement. However, even the staunchest of supporters have paled at the idea of Messrs Stanley, Simmons, Frehley and Criss actually attempting to compose new material. How were Kiss, now essentially a glorious exercise in '70s nostalgia, to deliver an album that would mean anything in 1998? Moreover, how are they now to integrate this new material into a live set consisting of classics penned two decades ago?
    The bitter truth is that "Psycho Circus" is merely okay. It's an enjoyable enough listen for sure, but what the New York legends needed to deliver was a total fire-spitting barnstormer of an album. Purely by dint of the fact that it was recorded by the classic line-up, Kiss are asking us to stand these songs alongside the likes of 'Detroit Rock City', 'Strutter' and 'Deuce', classics one and all. Bad Mistake.
    There are certainly some spectacular thrills to be had. 'You Wanted The Best' is a monstrously huge opener that sets out the band's 1998 agenda perfectly - Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons and Ace Frehley sharing vocal duties to leave us in no doubt that Kiss are back. Similarly, the gloriously titled 'I Pledge Allegiance to the State of Rock and Roll" is a magnificent Stanley-led belter, while the Frehley-fronted 'Into The Void' has echoes of the guitarist's old chestnut, 'Shock Me', and is virtually the best thing on the album. But elsewhere, Peter Criss croaks horribly on 'I Finally Found My Way', a dreadful ballad, and Simmons fares little better on the insipid and completely un-Kiss-like 'We Are One'. The title track and 'Within' flare brightly, but are weighted down with some pointless time changes. The remainder are simply a collection of celebratory rockers ('Raise Your Glasses') and power ballads ('Dreamin'', 'Journey of 1,000 Years').
    With a few glorious exceptions, there's little on "Psycho Circus" to suggest that Kiss could not have recorded this in their fair-to-middling '80s guise. What little difference there is comes largely from Frehley's distinctive chunky guitar style, but real Kiss fans will expect so much more. Not so much 'Cold Gin' as warm mineral water.

    Psycho Circus KISS Parties
    From: Nicco Ciccarone / KISS Strike
    KISS PSYCHO PARTY
    There will be two KISS expos in Milano on the 12 September and in Roma on the 13 September where we will play the new Psycho Circus album one week before its release and we will show the premiere of the promo video Psycho Circus and we will also show a videotape with messages from KISS sent from the band for this event. There will also be a live phone call from Gene Simmons. And the day will be full of happenings like karaoke, competitions, KISS trivia questions etc. etc. and there will be two KISS cover bands KISS COVERS (Milano) and DRESSED TO KISS (Roma). Here is the addresses where to be:

  • Saturday 12 September -- MILANO at ROLLING STONE, Corso 22 Marzo from 18:00 till 24:00. For more info call 0368-248257
  • Sunday 13 September -- ROMA at RADIO LONDRA CAFFE', Via di Monte Testaccio 65b from 19:00 till 24:00. For more info call Davide 06-5750044 or 0338-2753878

    Winnipeg "Psycho Circus" KISS Party
    Mike Hardy Retail Promotions Coordinator, POWER 97
    POWER 97 Winnipeg's #1 Rock Station and Winnipeg's Official Kiss Station, is giving listeners a chance to win invites to join us at The Psycho Circus CD Release Party. We'll have loads of cd's and cool stuff to giveaway. We'll transform one of the biggest rock bars, The Zoo, into a true Psycho Circus complete with sideshow freaks and corrupted clowns. The highlight is sure to be the Heavy Petting Zoo! Listeners can listen to win and spend a night with our Ring Mistress at The Psycho Circus!

    Psycho Circus Merchandise
    From: Mike Hogan Musicland, Sam Goody, On Cue, and Media Play are now selling KISS "Psycho Circus" t-shirts and framed art.

    Bruce Kulick On The Radio
    From: Brian Bobojchov
    I want to pass on the news that Bruce Kulick will be on the radio on Friday (9/4). The station is 97.7 in Hamilton, Ontario. He is suppose to be on between 6-7 pm est. The program is called rock notes or something like that! So tune in and enjoy fans!

    KISS Sighting
    From: Brett Mayer
    The Gene Simmons Halloween costume is on the cover of the mail order catalog "Command Performance". It is a free mag that can be ordered by writing to : Command Performance, P.O. Box 1661, Secaucus, NJ 07096-1661
    It's a full cover and the mag has low distribution. A cool piece to pick up if you have to have everything. The plate was featured on the cover several months back. They sell many official KISS items and usually have 5 or 6 items in the Rock and Roll section of the mag.

    KISS Faces Screensaver
    From: Lou Marino
    I have just released the next version of the KISS Faces Screensaver, version 7.0. It is available NOW at http://www.venture-systems.com/kissfaces.asp


    September 2



    Peter Criss in DRUM! Magazine
    From: Steve Corral
    I received my issue of Drum! magazine in the mail today. It has an out of focus picture from the last tour on the top right corner of the cover with the line, "PETER CRISS BACK WITH KISS!" It has one new picture of him in his "new" Destroyer costume, about five pages of interviews with two half page blurbs on Eric Singer and Eric Carr. I haven't read it yet, but I did see a bird's eye view drawing of his new drum kit. He is playing a 13 piece DW set with Zildjian cymbals.

    New KISS Action Figures from McFarlane Toys
    From: KISS Asylum
    According to McFarlane Productions there will be new 12" KISS action figures coming out that will have costumes more similar to the new Destroyer stage costumes. They are set to be released this fall!

    Onsale Date for Halloween KISS Tickets
    From: Mike Brandvold
    Tickets go on sales for the Halloween show at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on September 26th. The Smashing Pumpkins are scheduled to be on the bill. This is ALL the info that is available. More will be made available at the Press Conference on 9/21

    Cornerstone KISS Cards Update
    From: David Swayne
    Here is an update from Cornerstone Communication's web page.

  • KISS Series 2 is in production, and our printer tells us they expect to be able to start shipping from the factory on the 21st. Rumors that the set has been postponed until November are unfounded, untrue and just plain stupid. Where does this stuff come from? Is Gene still dead?
  • We hope to be do a Psycho Circus set before the end of the year, Gene willing.

    KISSed Off?
    From: Muzic.com via Glenn Ratner
    Kiss may soon find themselves following Oasis's lead and declaring war on their fan websites. Actually one website in particular: Roth's Rendezvous has been offering Kiss's latest release Psycho Circus for free downloading since mid-July. According to that sagacious music industry website, The Velvet Rope , Mr. Roth, whomever he is, has offered the entirety of Kiss's upcoming release in crystal clear mp3 format. This is especially disturbing to the band because this record--the first newly recorded studio album featuring all the original members--won't be in stores until September 22. According to the Rope report, the site initially had a hit counter, but after the total visitors reached a mere 13,000, the counter was removed. Why add insult to injury? The squealer posited that if only 90 per cent of those initial visitors downloaded the album, that still represents over $250,00 in lost revenue for the highly money-conscious quartet. And that was just the first month. A spokesperson at Mercury Records told us that they were not aware of the site, and would not comment on its existence. But it seems that everyone else knew about it, making it all but impossible to log on and take an elicit listen.
    Speaking of adding insult to injury, the folks that brought you last year's Kiss & Tell, the sensational chronicle of the mascara'd band's misbehaviors written by Ace Frehley's two former best friends, Gordon G.G.Gebert and Bob McAdams (the latter was best man at Ace's wedding), are at it again. Look for the publication of Kiss and Tell Two this month on Pitbull Press, a company whose motto reads "If It Ain't Pitt... It's Just A Lotta Bull!" According to Gebert, they had such a positive response from critics, not to mention healthy sales, that they decided to dig deeper and shovel even more dirt on the Flabby Four. "It's not just about Kiss, it's my story too," Gebert claims. "But I do dish a lot of dirt. What do you want to talk about? Sex, Drugs, Rock and Roll, we have it all." Although Gebert insists that he doesn't want to give away his best stuff, he did say the book will touch on Paul Stanley's sexuality, Peter Criss's mania, and Ace's drug and alcohol problems. Gene Simmons is the only one to emerge unscathed, and the only one to publicly support the book. (Paul Stanley told a radio interviewer that he had never met co-author Bob McAdams, despite the fact he had thanked McAdams on his 1979 solo album.) "Gene comes away looking really good, Gebert told us. "I have a lot of respect for him because he's kept the band going, and I admire his work ethic." (But what about those portable photo albums with all the nude photos of his admirers?) The co-author allows that there probably won't be a third installment of Kiss & Tell , although he still has a how-you-say shitload of stories left. "I used discretion in the book. There are some stories that I would never put in print." For the time being, anyway. -Jaan Uhelszki

    Sweden "Psycho Circus" Release Party
    From: Roger Nilsson
    There is a Release party of Psycho circus in Stockholm,Sweden at a rock club called Junk Yard. The address is Birkagatan 10,St:Eriksplan. It takes place Friday, September 25th at 8.00 Am. We are gonna give away Psycho circus promo t-shirts and copys of the Psycho Circus CD. This event is sponsered by Polygram, Sweden.

    KISS Mention In Playboy
    From: Rob Jackson
    In the FAST TRACKS section of the October issue of PLAYBOY, they mention KISS. It says, KISS is working with INTEL & BRILLIANT DIGITAL ENTERTAINMENT on THE KISS MULTIPATH MUSICAL TOUR, a digitally animated 3D music video. Users can dictate the story & graphics as well as alter action and mood.

    Vancouver KISS Contest
    From: Sean Cowie
    Attention All Vancouver-Area KISS Fans!! 99.3 The Fox (http://www.cfox.com) just announced its newest contest: a trip for 2 to see KISS live at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles on Halloween night. All you have to do is unscramble the KISS songs montage and be the right caller and you are entered into a draw to be made on September 23rd. Flight, accomodations, tickets and $500 spending money to boot!!

    Psycho Circus Wallpaper
    From: Teddy Gorospe
    Check out this cool Psycho Circus wallpaper I made. Click To View


    September 1



    MAKE EM GO PSYCHO!
    From: KISS Asylum
    Over 100 radio stations have added the new KISS single, "Psycho Circus." KISS ASYLUM wants to thank everyone for doing their part in the MAKE EM GO PSYCHO! Psycho Circus Radio Campaign in calling and emailing your local radio stations to request "Psycho Circus." The KISS ARYMY ONLINE is being heard and is making a difference! If you have not participated then please do so and if you have already participated then keep it up! With the help of the KISS Army Online, KISS ASYLUM has compiled a list of around 300 radio stations, the majority with an e-mail address and/or phone number so that you can act "right now" without delay! You can find this information at KISS ASYLUM's Psycho Circus Central page with the link to the "MAKE EM GO PSYCHO!" homepage.
    Additionally, to make things easy for our fellow fans we have installed a drop down menu on KISS ASYLUM's front page where you can select the state where you live and immediately get the available radio information for that state!
    The original KISS Army of the 70's may be gone, but has been replaced with the KISS ARMY ONLINE! Your call or e-mail will make a difference, so please support KISS by keeping stations swamped with requests for the song!! Also, please keep in mind that it won't help the guys to be rude, so please be polite when you call or e-mail these stations.
    Finally, if you have a radio station with a phone number and/or email address to add to the list please feel free to email us and we will make sure to update the list! The KISS ARMY ONLINE! is a force to be reckoned with, so check out the Psycho Circus radio page, find the stations nearest you, and then MAKE 'EM GO PSYCHO! by requesting KISS and Psycho Circus!!

    KISS Auction at KISS Alive.com!
    From: James Dunham
    We are proud to announce that the KISSalive.com KISS auction is now open at http://www.kissalive.com! You can be the buyer and the seller similar to Ebay. All notifications associated with the bidding process are done with email and you receive a link to place another bid on the items. Please view the initial set of guidelines at the KISS Alive.com website and go at it.

    "Psycho Circus" #19 Mainstream Rock List
    From: Lisa
    I was reading the new Billboard today, and Kiss was #19 on the Mainstream Rock list.

    New Zeland "Psycho Circus" Release Date
    From: Dean Williams
    Finally, POLYGRAM NZ have given us an official release date. Monday September 28 "Pyscho Circus" will be instore for NZ fans. An Album Party Night is also being put together. More info to come.

    Canadian KISS Remasters Release Date
    From: Sean Cowie
    Apparently, Canada will not see the new set of remasters for another 3 weeks. On September 22nd, as opposed to the U.S. release date of September 1st, we will see the release of Lick It Up, Animalize, Asylum, and Crazy Nights on Polygram Canada.

    "Psycho Circus" Release Party in Alberta
    From: David Gawdunyk
    With loads of help from Polygram Canada my store "International Stereo" in Edmonton, Alberta will be having a KISS day the day of release. Full page ads will be placed in all daily papers on the day of release, to coincide polygram have furnished us with many cool prizes. We will be giving away all four of the Psycho circus Kiss dolls, all four Kiss cars, mounted posters, t-shirts and lots more. The staff will be dressing up as Kiss for the event. All back catalog will be very special priced for the event including the recent remasters available in Canada the day of release. Cool memorablia will be on display and it will be an all around mega-Kiss day at "International Stereo".



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