KISS ASYLUM: March 2001 News Archive

Video - KISS In Australia

When Kiss first donned the make-up in New York City in 1972, they had all the makings of a novelty act that might briefly grab kids' attention before fizzing out. Fast-forward nearly three decades and they're one of the biggest-selling rock acts in history - only the Beatles have more gold records. Now, despite not having made an album in years, they're hanging up their dragon-boots at the height of their popularity. Last year their tour grossed $112.3 million in the US, making them the fourth-highest money-earners on the concert circuit. Kiss are instantly recognisable, universally loved by girls and guys, and the Kiss Army's loyalty verges on religious fervor. All this despite dancing to the beat of their own drum and espousing one basic, hedonistic principle: rock'n'roll all night and party every day. The God of Thunder - aka Gene Simmons, aka 51-year-old former school teacher Chaim Witz - is on the line from Tokyo, so I take the opportunity to ask him the secret to their success. "What does it all mean? I couldn't give a rat's ass," he says in his deep New York voice. "You know how you sit down to have a meal, and at the end someone says, 'Oh, that was wonderful, that tasted delicious, but what does it all mean?'. Or you wake up in bed with a beautiful woman who says, 'Ah, yes, but what does it all mean?'. Please shut up! Why do you want to torture me. You know what it means? You're alive." Kiss are wrapping up their final world tour in Australia, and play their penultimate show on the Gold Coast on Black Friday, April 13. Why did they bestow such a great honor upon Australia? "We know you've been very bad and we're going to punish you. Especially all of the girls with a couple of extra pounds. We'll have so much sound coming off the stage that we'll drop five pounds off any fat girl within a thousand yards of that stage." Unfortunately, however, original drummer Peter Criss has been dropped from the last leg of the tour following a financial dispute and has been replaced by Eric Singer. "It's very sad," says Simmons. "But Peter was offered as much money as everybody else, and we're sad Peter's not coming, but at the end of the day I think he took the wrong advice, which was, 'They'll never leave without you, ask for more'. Big mistake." [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM
Emil Ortenmark has graciously provided KISS ASYLUM with a great resource for those KISS fans that can wield an ax! Included on the page already are the guitar and bass tabs to already *over half of the KISS catalog* which includes the complete "Rock & Roll Over", "Psycho Circus", "Carnival of Souls", "Unmasked", "Lick It Up","Destroyer", Side 4 of "ALIVE II" * "Killers" (new material) and "Smashes Thrashes & Hits" (new material), "Crazy Nights", "Dynasty", "Paul Stanley" Solo Album, "Ace Frehley Solo Album, "Revenge", "Dressed To Kill", "Creatures of the Night" , "Asylum", "Love Gun" "The Elder", "Hotter Than Hell" "Hot In The Shade" and "KISS" albums, as well as "Nothing Can Keep Me From You" from the Detroit Rock City soundtrack. We know there are other songs you may be interested in getting a breakdown on so you can drive your neighbors crazy! What songs would you like to see tabulated? Fill out the form on the KISS Guitar Tabs page with your requests and we'll do what we can to get the tabs for your playing pleasure! [View The Guitar Tabs...] [Post Your Comments]

From: Beat.com.au via Andrew David
KISS with Eric Singer

Kiss hit town next week to farewell Australian fans. Unfortunately Peter Criss will not be with them. This band has cost me a packet over a period of twenty-four years. I got my first record, Love Gun in 1977. Since then it has been an endless spend on all things Kiss. From dolls, to records, to bootlegs to videos, every cent has been worth it. This story takes a look down memory lane at some of the dodgy moments and you can see, not everything has been rosy with the goodship Kiss over the years. Kiss Dodgy Moments: 1973 - The Early Gigs: Hell bent on pretending they were arena rockers, Kiss would fill their stages with walls of amplifiers with no speakers in the boxes. They simply wanted to impress people. They also hired expensive limousines to get to club gigs to create that larger than life myth. 1977 - Kiss Meets Phantom Of the Park: Riding a crest of a wave Kiss followed the likes of the Beatles and toyed with Hollywood. The movie was bloody awful but has become a cult classic. It does showcase some fine concert moments of the era, but the acting and plot left a lot to be desired. Peter Criss was too lazy to learn his lines and his voice was dubbed by a stand in actor. [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM
Since 1995 KISS ASYLUM has been the KISS fans' source for the most complete collection of KISS concert reviews. Continuing this goal, KISS ASYLUM is looking for concert reviews of KISS' Japan and Australian legs of the Farewell Tour to be posted here at KISS ASYLUM's Views section for all online fans to read. Because only a select number of fans are lucky enough to attend these special KISS shows, KISS ASYLUM is looking for your feedback on the concerts to allow others that are not able to attend the shows get a chance to read about it and experience it from a fellow fan's eyes. A bunch of Japan reviews are already online! So to subit your review or read others' reviews click over to http://www.kissasylum.com/views/tour2000/. [Post Your Comments]

From: Therion93
Phase II of About.Com's poll for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees has begun. This time you can only vote once per day. You know what's REALLY disgusting? John Mellonhead err camp is beating KISS by over 100 votes! This is just SICK! Get over there and vote! [Post Your Comments]

From: Julian Gill
Stanley

Credited simply to G. Klein, this 10" acetate, pressed by Richcraft Recording Company, was won in the Butterfield's KISS auction last year. It is featured on page 11 of KISStory, though the details that they attribute it are incorrect, the recordings are from around 1969-71. One side has the famed "Stanley The Parrot", which had parts of its' structure used in the later KISS classic "Strutter", while the second side (not mentioned in KISStory) has the piano-ballad "Leeta" which would make Paul McCarntey proud! Both of these songs are the very earliest recorded Gene Simmons material currently available and show a very different side of him than the stage personna he would develop in KISS. It is possible that one of the other musicians on the recordings is Brooke Ostrander, on Piano, who Gene recorded with before Wicked Lester formed. This item is probably unique, so this really is a once in a life opportunity. Being listed on Ebay on 2 April, for 10 days there will be a reserve price, but if it is met, fine, otherwise, the item will continue to reside in a safety deposit box. Why is this item getting listed? The KISSFAQ guy is getting married and a wedding/honeymoon costs money! You can also see what other KISS stuff the KISSFAQ3 guy is liquidating. [Post Your Comments]

From: Wesley
I have uploaded 3 video clips for you to see from KISS' appearance on Rove Live. Real Player 8 is required to view the video footage. 1) Kiss at newsbreak from channel 10 - Eric making joke on Ace - also Gene & Paul - (5 seconds - 248kb). 2) Kiss News - from channel 10 - 27-3-2001 - (1:36mins 4.06mb) 3) Rove Live interview with Kiss - (5:13mins 13.1mb). Check these out quickly as they will be removed from my website in a few days. [Post Your Comments]

From: Quentin
Gene and Paul will be guests on the ABC's Rage (Australia's MTV, if you will) program on Saturday night. More details can be found at http://www.abc.net.au/rage/rage.htm. Saturday Night March 31st 2001 @ 12.05am. GENE SIMMONS & PAUL STANLEY from KISS guest program rage followed by KISS videos. [Post Your Comments]

From: Joop van Pelt
Two TV shows in Holland are working on KISS themed episodes to be aired within the next couple of months. Filming of these KISS themed segments will start soon, with airdates now scheduled for late April respectively May. In one of these shows, the presentor will be made up and dressed as Gene, in the other show two cooks will make dinner for their KISS friends who'll be sitting in a setting featuring KISS posters, t-shirts, albums, etc. The KISS Kollector Fanclub has been asked to provide all the KISS items. More details on this (including the names of the TV show plus airdates) will be announced soon. [Post Your Comments]

From: Crikey Media via Neal Woolrich
Just for something different for Crikey readers, Crikey's resident cock rocker and KISS fanatic, Old Jim, went along to the Sydney press conference on 27 March for the veteran hard rockers, KISS, in the lead up to their Australian "Farewell Tour". Already KISS have attracted a fair bit of media attention prior to their arrival in Australia. Richard Wilkins lead the way on the Today Show with a report that informed us that KISS were from Detroit and that they were touring with "long time drummer Eric Singer". That's two strikes already Dicky and the tour hasn't even started. As all Crikey readers would know, KISS are of course from Noo Yoik and Eric Singer was only in the band from 1992 to 1995 - I'd hardly say that's "long term", although in these days of extreme labour market mobility, perhaps we can let Dicky off the hook for this one. Old Jim's brief was to uncover the goings on at this entertainment extravaganza and his findings are truly earth shattering. [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS Freaks
KISS' press conference was held at the Star City Casino, the media only event was attended by approx 100 invited guests, KISS were presented with the awards which I had an oppourtunity in helping put together. The awards were a lifetime acheivement for over 2 million sales Australia wide. Each member got an award including their manager, an extra award was also made for Peter Criss! The award matting was black leather with 23 CD covers (note that 'Hotter than hell', 'Asylum' and 'Hot in the shade' were left off for asthetic reasons). A group of 10 CD covers were on either side of the centre piece which was mirrored containg the KISS logo and a map of Australia. The bottom contained the four faces from 'you wanted the best...' cd cover these were specially put together to create a 3D effect with transperencies. In between the faces there is KISS' biggest aussie selling albums: Double Platinum, Dynasty and Greatest KISS. [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: M. Tucker
Well Gene & Paul were on Rove Live last night in a comic sketch, it was quite funny but would have been so much more fun if Ace had been there. We haven't seen much of Ace, wonder why. Gene & Paul looked pretty good in their full regalia. Anyway the sketch involved the host (Rove) sitting in front of Paul & Gene while they were applying makeup to his face, we couldn't see the make up but just Gene & Paul painting away. Rove was asking them stuff like how many women they've slept with, why do women love them so much, why are they saying good bye, etc. Paul says the reason women want them is because they are famous and rich, that they have no illusions about why women want them.... It's definitely just the money and the fame. Gene then adjusted his jockstrap (he actually put his hand inside his costume and ADJUSTED IT) while the audience roared with laughter as he then used the same hand to keep applying makeup to Rove. It was a crack up. Then they showed some video of KISS on stage, mostely from the PPV show. They really didn't say anything special just chatted and joked around and in the end we got to see Rove's makeup job and it was a combo of Gene & Ace's makeup and an old Gene costume, he looked hilarious. When asked why they are still so huge, Paul said that it was because they were KISS... that lots of bands can put on a big show or a KISS show but nobody is KISS, only KISS is KISS and so that is the appeal, they are the originals. When asked how Gene can jump around on stage with those boots Gene said he doesn't know how, they came up with the costumes and worked out the details afterwards! That's about it. And in the studio someone in the audience had a sign saying "I'm Gene's son" and then a whole stack of others saying "Me Too" LOL [Post Your Comments]

From: Radioundercover.com
KISS

KISS will chat with fans towards the end of their farewell in Australia next week at Radioundercover.com Thursday April 5 at 5pm (East Coast Australia time) you will be able to listen to KISS talk about their final tour and also send us your questions to be asked during the interview. To submit your questions for the online chat send to askkiss@radioundercover.com now. While it is rumoured that the final KISS show will happen in the USA later this year, at this point no dates have been scheduled past April 13 on the Gold Coast. [Post Your Comments]

From: Celebrity News Auctions

This 1990 ESP Custom made "Strat" style guitar is finished in dark blue metal flake, and was used on the KISS "Revenge" tour, pictured in the in the official tourbook. and featured in the KISS KONFIDENTIAL video. It has a Floyd Rose chrome bridge, Duncan humbucker, ESP single coil, a TONE-X, giving the guitar an authentic wah wah sound, (hooked up to the tone control, which when pulled out works alot like the way you find the sweet spot of a wah wah pedal), and has a rare reverse headstock (large). This was a custom model put together for BRUCE KULICK, is light, has a GREAT neck that feels really nice and broken in. This special guitar appears on KISS ALIVE III. And "The Star Spangled Banner" was performed on this one as well as "God Gave Rock 'n Roll To You." This axe is a prime KISS warhorse. Comes with hard light-weight ESP case, and a photo of BRUCE KULICK playing it. Please note: No serial number on this guitar as it was a custom ESP. CONDITION: Excellent. COA signed by BRUCE KULICK is included... AUTHENTICITY GUARANTEED! Own a piece of KISSTORY from BRUCE KULICK's closet... Click Here To Bid On The Guitar! [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM
Find out the logic behind the releases, what was going on in the band during the recording of albums, what the band was up to in the period leading up to studio time, and lots more information which should be of interest to the diehard fan! Some of the album focus' will use reference material never before available, plus some of the best interviews with the band already available. We are going for accuracy in our attempt to provide a completely clear picture of the status of the band for each release. The "KISS Album Focus" will be your definitive look back on KISS and their albums. Sit back and enjoy your KISStory lesson with KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM's "KISS Album Focus."
"After the American and Japanese legs of the Crazy Nights tour PolyGram suggested to KISS that they release a compilation album, along the lines of what the setlist on recent tours had become, with certain songs being specially remixed. PolyGram's Japanese affiliate Polystar was going to be releasing a special commemorative compilation called "Chikara" (Polystar P30R-20008) in May, which would include a mix of mostly recent tracks with some make-up era gems, notably the 8 minute version of "I Love It Loud"..." [Learn Your KISSTORY Lesson!] [Post Your Comments]

From: Kathy Labonte
KAOL CD

In January of 2001, pre-ordering began for the 3rd and final installment in the KAOL Tribute series. On March 14th, "The Spirit of '78" was officially released as a double CD set and we are pleased to announce that there are LESS THAN 50 UNITS left for sale! We are getting ready to press the second run. If you haven't gotten your copy yet, grab one of the 50 remaining units because this first batch of KAOL 3 has turned out to be a collector's edition. The Video disc art of the American flag was printed with a silver base under the red and blue. Only the first 1000 discs were printed that way. The next press run and all subsequent printings will be flooded with a white base coat creating a slightly different look to the flag art. Though we didn't plan it this way, it turns out that the silver flags will eventually be much rarer. PLUS.... the new batch WILL have a cost increase. We underpriced this double CD set and will be raising the price slightly on all future stock. So, help us sell out of KAOL 3 completely and get the original silver disc art for a low price. All U.S. customers will receive a free 19x27 FULL COLOR Kiss Army OnLine "Goodbye" poster. Thanks to all who purchased a copy of the CD. The majority of the feedback has been that people are loving the music and the audio disc is staying in their players! Can't ask for much more than that. Glad to hear it! Order at: www.kissarmyonline.com [Post Your Comments]

From: Loukiss98@aol.com
I would like to personally thank all 650+ plus fans that attended the Expo last weekend. I would also like to thank all the dealers, staff members and special guests, Bruce Kulick, Dale Torborg, Bill Aucoin, Chip Rock and Michael Bruce and Looks That Kill and Love Gun. A special thanks to KISS ASYLUM, Kiss Online and all the other websites, (including Mike Rutherford the web master of our website) that helped make this the best Expo ever in New England! See you next year! [Post Your Comments]

From: Michel Zwartjes
Dutch Kiss Coverband "Sweet Pain" is doing their last concert playing Kiss Covers at April 6 in the "Musicon" TheHague-Holland. After that the band will be busy writing their own material and create a new band with a new sound! The bandmembers remain the same but both bandname and music will change. As leadsinger Mich Zwartjes quoted: "Its gonna be something completely different of what we did past 5 years, we had a good time doing the Kiss-stuff. We sold a lot of cds worldwide, but its time for something new.....you will be surprised.........!" Read the latest news at www.sweetpainonline.com [Post Your Comments]

From: Dotmusic.com
Our globetrotting roving reporter caught up with the made-up rock titans on their recent tour of Japan and spoke to bassist Gene Simmons and guitarist Paul Stanley. The Japanese fans have always gone the extra mile for the band, with many turning up in make-up and costumes, as our report shows. Stanley recalls that "the first time we came here, they told us we were huge. We broke The Beatles' record for concerts at the Budokan. So we could not do a farewell tour without coming to see our friends and fans here." Simmons adds, "It's amazing to see fans show up at the concerts with their faces painted up like us. It's tough to go back to America where everybody basically says 'What are you looking at?' Here, everybody is very gracious." As well as the decked-out fans, you can also check out KISS onstage, blasting through the classic 'Detroit Rock City'. The band say they're quitting while they're ahead, "We're doing it when everyone says 'Why are you quitting?' instead of when they say 'Why don't you quit?'" [Watch KISS In Real Video] [Post Your Comments]

From: Chris Desing
Fried Alive is closing it's doors on May 1st. I've run Fried Alive for 8 years and Friedalive.com for 6, and I feel it's time to move on to pursue other interests. I'd like to thank all the great people I've met over these years in the KISS world. Many many great memories. I will still be keeping up on KISS, as they'll always be my favorite band, but I won't be active in the community anymore. Thank you to all my online friends for all the great times. [Post Your Comments]

From: Studio Chikara

World-renown photographer Barry Levine, known for his classic photography of rock celebrities like Abba, Queen and Cher, releases his third lithograph featuring the rock group KISS. This limited-edition of 500 numbered pieces depicts Mr. Levine's stunning image of KISS celebrating the bicentennial in 1976. "Ever since publication of THE KISS YEARS in 1997, fans have wanted a full-size reproduction of this classic photograph," says publisher Robert V. Conte. "It was apparent that, while selecting the next image for our lithograph series, the "Spirit of '76" shot was the one to do." Authorized by Barry Levine himself, this 24" x 36" lithograph is printed in rich full-color with a black-and-silver border on thick, 100-lb. cover stock. All KISS ASYLUM fans who pre-order the lithograph by April 10, 2001 will pay only $29.95 + 5.00 shipping and handling. The regular retail price is $39.95 + $4.00 shipping/handling USA (+$12.00 International). Mail check or money order (US dollars only, please) to: STUDIO CHIKARA, 244, Fifth Avenue #2464, New York, NY 10001 USA. Visa, MasterCard and AMEX customers may FAX their credit card type, number, expiration date and signature to 212-591-6300. Log onto www.stuchikara.com to see other available Studio Chikara products. NOTE: This product is not authorized nor endorsed by Kiss. Mr. Levine owns copyright of image used herein. [Post Your Comments]

From: Sydney Morning Herald
Laugh all you like at KISS - Gene Simmons couldn't give a flying blood capsule. In fact he might join you in a giggle, or at least a smirk. The biggest dumb rock band in the world? The dumbest big rock band? Whatever. There's one criterion, maybe the only one, that matters to the man born Chaim Witz 51 years ago. "A wise man said it much better than I could: every day above ground is a good day," says Simmons in his cultured New York accent. "And so I get to be above ground, women want to have my children and I sell out tickets, it's all good. Which is astonishing. For a beastly guy like me, for women to want to approach me, much less comb the hairs on my back, is a wonder." "The easily offended can take some consolation in the fact that KISS won't play live again after a final Shea Stadium concert in New York in a few months. According to Simmons, it's simply a matter of physical demands. "Imagine walking around on stage with 60 pounds [27 kg] of weight in studs and armour and leather and so on, plus every step you're taking is eight inches [20 cm] above the ground on platform heels. Doing that for two hours it's physically exhausting, very demanding."" [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: X-Press Magazine

One easily gets the feeling that Gene Simmons was the kind of guy they created call waiting for. Charging through our conversation, in mid-sentence he politely excuses himself and X-Press is momentarily placed on hold, listening to an LA radio station which is giving a listener named Nina the chance to win concert tickets if she correctly identifies the celebrity named Jack whose last name is a citrus fruit. She wins. "Sorry," says Simmons, cutting back in on the call. "I'm working on a movie called Legend Of The Seven Golden Vampires that Universal is going after Mike Myers and Jackie Chan for." Rock's best-known demon has a lot on his plate. He's also developing a Kiss cartoon show, a four-hour Kiss mini-series, a Kiss Casino in Las Vegas and a Kiss theme park. It is, he says, "never ending." Except that in many ways, it is. Or will be. For, after 29 years Kiss, the self-proclaimed "hottest band in the world" are calling it a day as a touring/recording band. After a hugely successful reunion tour of the four original members in 1996-97, and an extensive jaunt in support of their last studio album, Psycho Circus, in 1998-99, Kiss kicked off a Farewell Tour in early 2000, which has now hit Japan and will storm Australia in a fortnight. They'll do so without the services of drummer Peter Criss, who fell out with the band over contractual arrangements in the lead up to this part of the tour. Eric Singer (former Kiss drummer from 1992-95) will fill in - quite controversially, in Criss' trademark cat make up - though it is not yet clear whether Criss will play Kiss' final ever show, touted as being at Madison Square Garden in April or May. This week's X-Press Interview took place a week after the announcement about Peter Criss' departure. The 51 year-old Gene Simmons was a little wistful about the situation with Criss and contemplative about the end of three decades of rockin'. He was, though, magnanimous as ever about the dream that became Kiss. Supported by The Screaming Jets, Kiss play the Burswood Dome on Thursday, March 29. [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM
Find out the logic behind the releases, what was going on in the band during the recording of albums, what the band was up to in the period leading up to studio time, and lots more information which should be of interest to the diehard fan! Some of the album focus' will use reference material never before available, plus some of the best interviews with the band already available. We are going for accuracy in our attempt to provide a completely clear picture of the status of the band for each release. The "KISS Album Focus" will be your definitive look back on KISS and their albums. Sit back and enjoy your KISStory lesson with KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM's "KISS Album Focus."
"KISS wanted a massive hit, moreover, the differentiation between the performance of the "Lick It Up", "Animalize", and "Asylum" albums and tours was negligible. In essence, it was time for the band to take the 'recovery' of the band's fortune to the next level. And that was the level on which bands like Motley Crue and Bon Jovi, both of whom had opened for KISS just a couple of years earlier, performing gaining widespread exposure and filling venues and shipping plenty of product. While KISS' recovery had certainly left then in a better position that they had been in 1982..." [Learn Your KISSTORY Lesson!] [Post Your Comments]

From: Kulick.net
Attention all Bruce & KISS fans in the Auburn Hills/Detroit area! Bruce will be playing this Thursday, March 22nd with Grand Funk Railroad at The Palace of Auburn Hills. Bruce and the Grand Funk Railroad guys have been putting on awesome shows every time they play, so be sure to check out the show if you are in the area... you won't be disappointed! Click Here for more Grand Funk Railroad Tour Dates. [Post Your Comments]

From: Paul Finn / KISSin UK

Announcing the release of the KISS News Reel - Fan News Edition, a brand new application for the Windows desktop. KISS news headlines are downloaded from participating websites and smoothly scrolled across your screen. Want to read the story in full? Then just click the headline and you will be taken directly to the relevant site, you can also choose exactly which of the participating sites to use and the order to display them in. With a strong line-up of sites you can be sure that you getting news from some of the most reputable fan based sites on the net. The initial line up includes KISS ASYLUM, KISS Freaks, KISSin' UK, KISS Psycho, KISS Forever and KISS Fan Shop with more sites such as SIKKWorld on the way. Whenever new sites are added you won't even have to download a new version of the program, all you need to do is simply press a button found on the settings screen. Interested in finding out more? Then visit http://www.kissinuk.com/newsreel/ where you can download the KISS News Reel for free, all you need is a PC running Windows (a Mac version may appear later on). Many thanks to all the sites taking part, without them the KISS News Reel would not exist. [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM
From the KISS fan reviews KISS ASYLUM has been receiving it appears that KISS included a cool 4 song medley as an encore at the Nagoya, Japan show. The medley included at least a verse and a chorus of "Got To Choose", "Parasite", "She" and "Makin' Love." Click here to read more fans reviews of KISS' Japan shows. [Post Your Comments]

From: Stan Pendridge via KISS Freaks
Many online KISS fans were intrigued in late February to hear that the contract Peter Criss signed for the 1996 KISS Reunion Tour and beyond was going to auction on eBay. For ten days, bidding continued on the 46-page document, starting at 99 cents, until March 12 when a closing bid was reached for $4,050. Amongst those bidding on the item were autograph-resellers, KISS fans and even two members of the band itself, but the winning bid belonged to that of Stan Penridge, former band mate of Peter Criss and co-writer of one of the KISS' most popular songs, "Beth." When asked what he plans to do with the document, Mr. Penridge stated that he is unsure of where the document will end up ultimately, but he does plan to have use of it in his upcoming trial lawsuit case against the band and their label, feeling that elements in the contract conflict with information already given to the courts by the defense. The lawsuit, dealing with unpaid royalties on a wide number of songs and submitted to the courts originally on February 28, 2000, has been delayed for over a year due to numerous dismissal attempts and court schedule conflicts. Official meetings to discuss a trial date are to occur between both sides and the judge this next Tuesday, March 19, 2001, in the Superior Court of the State of California and the County of Los Angeles. [Post Your Comments]

From: Kulick.net

Ok Bruce fans, the time is here! The highly anticipated full-length Bruce Kulick solo album, "Audio Dog," is now available for pre-ordering on Bruce's website www.Kulick.net! The 11 track CD features 7 vocal tracks and 4 instrumentals: "Pair of Dice" * "Strange To Me" * "Change is Coming" * "Need Me" * "I Don't Mind" * "Monster Island" * "Please Don't Wait" * "Liar" * "I Can't Take" * "Dogs of Morrison" and "Skydome".As a special bonus, the first 200 pre-orders will receive a signature Bruce Kulick guitar pick with their order! Click on over and order your copy now!. [Post Your Comments]

From: Raghead
KISS have just appeared on the Today show here in Sydney this morning (16 March E.S.T.). They were interviewed by the show's music reporter Richard Wilkins. All the band looked good and Ace even remembered that they received the key to the city back in 1980 when they toured for the Unmasked album (Paul mentioned that the lock has probably been changed). Gene stated that sometimes their comments come across as boastful, but that is not their intent because thay are just elated about the reception they get, such as selling out Tokyo stadium. Paul told the viewers that they'll be sorry if they missed the show, because it will be featuring all the classic stage antics and classic songs. [Post Your Comments]

From: Kathy Labonte

The third and final KISS Tribute CD for charity from the KISS Army OnLine (KAOL) has been released and shipped. 4 years ago this all started and it comes full circle with this final DOUBLE CD set. Those of you who ordered, watch the mail. Those of you who haven't, what are you waiting for? Even if you aren't a fan of tribute discs you've got to have this one. It's like no other. All the music is based on the 1978 KISS solo albums. It also includes a second disc full of music videos and bonus MP3s. The packaging is full color all the way around and comes with 2 collector's inserts ( KISS Army magnet and window sticker). And the music..... the music is just incredible. Bands from all over the world really knocked themselves out recording for this disc. And finally, ALL PROFITS from KAOL are being donated to the Massachussetts Alzheimer's Association. Listen, I'm even offering a money back guarantee - you don't like it, you don't pay for it. Just send it back for a refund. I'm convinced not one will be returned. Join the KISS Army OnLine - we're raising money for good causes with great music. Buy right now and get a full color 19x27 KISS Army poster for free. It's released! It's here! Don't miss out.... www.kissarmyonline.com. [Post Your Comments]

From: Loukiss98@aol.com
The New England Kiss Expo will be held on Sunday March 25 at the Venus de Milo in Swansea MA. ( approx. 15 minutes from Providence RI) The guest list keeps growing! The final guest list is as follows: Bruce Kulick, Bill Aucoin, WCW's The Demon ( Dale Torborg), Michael Bruce ( Original Alice cooper guitarist). Also attending Chip Rock ( Kiss photographer and author of the book Outtakes) and Ralphe Carle ( Prophecy- Eric Carr tribute album). Live performances by Love Gun ( Kiss tribute) and Looks that Kill (Motley Crue tribute). Both bands will be in full costume and makeup and have replica stages!! More dealers than ever before will be attending the Expo this year, offering the best in Kiss merchandise! All fans attending the expo will be able to get free autographs from Bruce Kulick and Bill Aucoin and an 8 by 10 color promo photo autographed by the Demon himself. Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. For all the info please visit the Expo web site New England KISS Expo 2001. [Post Your Comments]

From: Ron Albanese
I am an unabashed Peter Criss fan. I've always liked his drumming, a body of work rife with parts that made those early Kiss songs so memorable (a selected list that jumps to my consciousness: the end of the second verse of the studio version of "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll,"* the laid back rolls in Kiss' "Nothing to Lose," the ending of "Calling Dr. Love," all of "Got Love for Sale"). What has been historically really cool about Peter visually is that in Kiss photos he's always played a classy, cool cat (I'm not going to get into those early knife-wielding shots - the guy needed time to perfect his character, after all) as opposed to a tiger. Peter has never posed his hands like claws, or got on all four limbs in an effort to convey his feline persona. Of course, this mellow style in front of the camera (I'm mostly thinking of the '70s) was an ironic contrast to the Criss' legendary off stage behavior, which was a little more � kinetic. At age seven, I made my former-barber dad cut my hair like Peter's, using the '75 "eyes closed" poster as a guide (this one really got around, which is surprising since it bore no official fine print). I skipped going "salt and pepper," though I questioned my father about what that meant (I first learned of the phrase though a 16 Magazine Kiss story). In 1978 I bought the Cat's Kiss solo album first, for $4.99 at the local Bradlee's (my $4.00 weekly allowance provided the main funding, with the rest covered by my old man -- the extra buck and five percent sales tax!). I would later score my vinyl copy of Out of Control at the same store, but like an idiot would pass up the "By Myself" single. In more recent years, I've given up a large chunk of my leisure time to author to lengthy tributes to both of the above albums. Do you want the truth? My father is Peter Criss. Only kidding. [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: About.com
About.com is asking their visitors to vote for which artists should be elected next year into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Of course, we all know that KISS should win. Cast your votes and let everyone know who the greatest Rock and Roll band is. VOTE KISS! [Post Your Comments]

From: Wall Of Sound
Simmons

Masked rocker Gene Simmons is winding down his lengthy farewell tour with his band, KISS - but when he takes off the costume, he's got a new gig lined up. Simmons is hosting The Secret History of Rock 'n' Roll, a one-hour special on Court TV, set to air June 11. Being a music industry veteran, Simmons figures, is qualification enough for the show, which aims to explore the seamier side of the business. "This thing we call the music industry is very bizarre," Simmons says. "About the only thing I can liken it to is the Wild West because this brand of new music that was created, was really created by a shady element of society. They were guys that were involved in jukeboxes and so on, so the talent that initially came off the streets started to rub shoulders with the wrong ... shall we say, elements. And so, the music industry from early on was tainted. Along the way, you've got a lot of people strumming guitars who can barely spell their name right much less read or write music. And I'm one of them. Along the way, the wrong element usually winds up crawling in bed with us." [More...] [Post Your Comments]

From: Ron Albanese
It has returned. Don't miss the 15th Annual NY KISS & Hard Rock Convention at the Rothman Center, Hackensack, NJ, April 29, 2001, 11 A.M. - 10 P.M. Featuring 5 live bands on a GIANT stage, including, ROCK KANDY (80's tribute), Young & Fabulous (original New York City glam-rock sensation), NYB (from Staten Island), Get Your Guns (fantastick Guns n' Roses tribute) AND Double Platinum (KISS TRIBUTE). Over 100 international KISS & Hard Rock dealers! Special guests: Richie Scarlet & Karl Cochran (from Ace Frehley's band, Dennis Woloch (KISS album cover artist from 1976-1986), Michael Bruce (original Alice Cooper guitarist), more guests to be announced. Also, HEAVY METAL PARKING LOT (fresh from their TV appearance on Jenny Jones). GREAT hourly giveaways-at 4 PM, KISStory book signed by Ace, Peter, Gene & Paul! [Post Your Comments]

From: Jay
For all of the KISS ASYLUM visitors, here are some first look photos I took from KISS' first show in Japan (Yokohama March 9, 2001) on the KISS Farewell Tour. Click Here To View The Photos! [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM

First Look KISS Japan Photo (Yokahama 3/9/01) Click For A Larger Image. Photo By Jay

Since 1995 KISS ASYLUM has been the KISS fans' source for the most complete collection of KISS concert reviews. Continuing this goal, KISS ASYLUM is looking for concert reviews of KISS' Japan and Australian legs of the Farewell Tour to be posted here at KISS ASYLUM's Views section for all online fans to read. Because only a select number of fans are lucky enough to attend these special KISS shows, KISS ASYLUM is looking for your feedback on the concerts to allow others that are not able to attend the shows get a chance to read about it and experience it from a fellow fan's eyes. The first couple of Japan reviews are alreaedy online! So to subit your review or read others' reviews click over to http://www.kissasylum.com/views/tour2000/. [Post Your Comments]

From: Metal Edge Online
There is a short 6 minute Bruce Kulick audio interview on Metal Edge Online where Bruce discusses his upcoming album, Audio Dog. Click Here, to visit the audio page to choose your modem speed. [Post Your Comments]

From: Takashi "Frank" Kurosaka

Gene Simmons to debut as a drawer with a limited (250 only) & signed lithograph titled "LIBERTY". The framed picture has: "LIBERTY" the face of lady liberty with Gene's makeup & signed by Gene; Picture of Gene live in concert; Aluminum name plate; Picture of Gene signing the picture (taken while on tour in Las Vegas); Custom matte with a flame motif; Part of the proceeds is said to be donated to UNICEF Japan. Only 250 will be sold. Sales through telephone & internet only (need to be able to speak japanese). size: 59cm x 66cm On sale starting 3/12 JST. price: �469,000 (approx $3,975 USD). Click Here for more info! [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM
Find out the logic behind the releases, what was going on in the band during the recording of albums, what the band was up to in the period leading up to studio time, and lots more information which should be of interest to the diehard fan! Some of the album focus' will use reference material never before available, plus some of the best interviews with the band already available. We are going for accuracy in our attempt to provide a completely clear picture of the status of the band for each release. The "KISS Album Focus" will be your definitive look back on KISS and their albums. Sit back and enjoy your KISStory lesson with KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM's "KISS Album Focus."
"When KISS concluded the Animalize Tour there must have been something of a feeling that they had been let out of the insane asylum they'd been in for the fast 5 years. The musical experimentation that had started with the Dynasty album of 1979 and ended with the major failure Music From "The Elder" had transformed KISS from selling out stadiums to barely being able to fill music halls. Moreover, the musical demographic had changed - KISS fans were alienated by the number of children attending shows with their parents, and those children were quick to hop on other fads. KISS' schizophrenia continued with the removal of the makeup, the return to making heavy metal, and the slew of guitarists who rotated through the ranks of the band in a 3 year period. The rebuilding process started with Creatures Of The Night, and fully presented with Lick It Up had been somewhat realized by the success of "Animalize"..." [Learn Your KISSTORY Lesson!] [Post Your Comments]

From: Home Recording magazine via Justin Caldwell
In the recent issue of Home Recording magazine producer,engineer Eddie Kramer was asked about recording live albums. A couple of names were dropped and of course KISS was mentioned since he was the chief producer and engineer on both KISS ALIVE and KISS ALIVE II. When asked if any overdubs were used, he mentioned that since KISS was " all over the bloody place " on stage it was very hard to be perfect there was a lot of sloppy playing and missed vocals. He also stated that KISS was not very "tight" musically and that the entire KISS ALIVE album except for the drums were all overdubs. The interviewer had said that the album couldn't really be "Alive" then, Eddie replied "Hardly". Just some food or thought. [Post Your Comments]

From: Radagast5 / KISS ASYLUM KISS Bulletin Board
Here's the setlist from the first show in Yokohoma, Japan: Detroit Rock City, Deuce, Shout It Out Loud, Talk To Me, I Love It Loud, Firehouse, Do You Love Me, Calling Dr.Love, Heaven's On Fire, Let Me Go Rock And Roll, Shock Me (Ace Guitar Solo), Psycho Circus, Lick It Up, God Of Thunder (Eric Drum Solo), Cold Gin, 100000 Years, Love Gun, I Still Love You (Paul's Solo), Black Diamond, (Encore1) I Was Made For Lovin' You, (Encore2) Rock And Roll All Nite. [Post Your Comments]

From: Kulick.net
WOW!! I want to thank all my fans and friends for ordering my EP... so fast I need to say SOLD OUT! I was blown away at how many orders. They are still being processed and if you havent gotten it yet, be patient you will. BUT what SOLD OUT also means is, if you already sent a check or money order, your order WILL be filled. That is why I had to stop taking orders now... so the ones still coming in can be sent to you. I will offer some copies of the EP at the New England Expo (up close and personal way to sell it!). The artwork for the full length will be ready in a few days, and the cover will go up very shortly on Kulick.net. Is it VERY different from the EP cover and, once again, an Argentine fan who came up with the concept for the full length will have to be thanked... Martin Comoglio. (Very odd that two Argentine friends helped me out on my artwork!!) Flavia Mattina created my dog as a rock star on the EP cover. (So thanks again to you both). Click Over To Kulick.net To Read The Full Report! [Post Your Comments]

From: AP Newswire
LOS ANGELES (AP) - The wife of KISS frontman Paul Stanley has filed for divorce, citing irreconcilable differences. Pamela Bowen Stanley is seeking joint legal and physical custody of their 6-year-old son, Evan Shane. She also is asking for spousal support. The couple married on July 26, 1992, and separated earlier this year, according to the divorce petition filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on Monday. The couple's assets will be divided later, according to the court papers. Stanley is an original member of the rock band KISS, which is on its "Farewell Tour." [Post Your Comments]

From: Metal Edge Online
As most fans are aware, KISS flies to Japan today for the Japanese and Australian leg of the Farewell Tour that begins March 9 in Yokohama, with Eric Singer aboard replacing Peter Criss. Singer has been laying very low since he rejoined the band, but has done an interview with KISS' website that is now being edited but yielded some information posted at the site. With Criss gone, "Beth" is being replaced in the set by "I Was Made For Loving You," but Singer, who'll do his drum solo during "God of Thunder," will sing on "Black Diamond" and will do a flaming drumsticks stunt. The interview will include Singer's comments on rejoining KISS and putting on the Cat makeup for the first time. [Post Your Comments]

From: Scott Townsend

The actual 46 page contract between KISS and Peter Criss. The contract is authentic, with actual signatures. It is a one of a kind item and a must for any hardcore Kiss fan. This item is now listed on Ebay for 10 days starting TODAY - March 2nd (music-boy). Please contact Scott Townsend directly with any questions. Original contract between Peter Criss and GAPP 96 LTD (Gene & Paul's company). Dated January 5, 1996, this contract reveals the full details of Peter rejoining KISS. It answers all the questions that fans have been speculating about for the last 5 years, including:

How much was Peter Criss paid?

Did he share in any profits, or was he just a hired employee?

Would there be any contingent bonuses, benefits, vacations?

How was drug and alcohol abuse going to be handled?

What would happen in the event that Peter failed to appear at a performance?

Who owns the rights to Peter's KISS Cat Makeup?

Insurance, physical examinations and fitness issues?

What happened to his record deal with Tony Nicole Tony Records?

Would Peter be able to continue his Cat Club fan club?

Would Peter's travel and food expenses equal that of Gene & Paul?

How much would Peter be entitled to if the band recorded a new record?

Does Peter share in royalties for a home video?

Would Peter now be paid for copies of KISStory sold?

Did KISS plan to embark on another KISS Convention Tour with Ace & Peter?
This contract, hand signed by Peter Criss, answers all the above questions and more about the KISS Reunion. Many fans, critics and insiders have all speculated over the terms and provisions about the KISS Reunion. This original document will answer every question you could have imagined and some you didn't think about in regards to the KISS Reunion of the original four members Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley and Peter Criss. Pictured here is the FIRST and LAST page of the 46 page contract. Highest Bid will receive ALL 46 pages. Click Here To Place Your Bid On Ebay! [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS ASYLUM
Emil Ortenmark has graciously provided KISS ASYLUM with a great resource for those KISS fans that can wield an ax! Included on the page already are the guitar and bass tabs to already *over half of the KISS catalog* which includes the complete "Rock & Roll Over", "Psycho Circus", "Carnival of Souls", "Unmasked", "Lick It Up","Destroyer", Side 4 of "ALIVE II" * "Killers" (new material) and "Smashes Thrashes & Hits" (new material), "Crazy Nights", "Dynasty", "Paul Stanley" Solo Album, "Ace Frehley Solo Album, "Revenge", "Dressed To Kill", "Creatures of the Night" , "Asylum", "Love Gun" "The Elder", "Hotter Than Hell" and "KISS" albums, as well as "Nothing Can Keep Me From You" from the Detroit Rock City soundtrack. We know there are other songs you may be interested in getting a breakdown on so you can drive your neighbors crazy! What songs would you like to see tabulated? Fill out the form on the KISS Guitar Tabs page with your requests and we'll do what we can to get the tabs for your playing pleasure! [View The Guitar Tabs...] [Post Your Comments]

March 5

From: KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM
Find out the logic behind the releases, what was going on in the band during the recording of albums, what the band was up to in the period leading up to studio time, and lots more information which should be of interest to the diehard fan! Some of the album focus' will use reference material never before available, plus some of the best interviews with the band already available. We are going for accuracy in our attempt to provide a completely clear picture of the status of the band for each release. The "KISS Album Focus" will be your definitive look back on KISS and their albums. Sit back and enjoy your KISStory lesson with KISS ASYLUM & KISSFAQ.COM's "KISS Album Focus."
"Mark St. John was born Mark Norton, in Hollywood, California, on February 7, 1956 and serves with noteriety as KISS' shortest lived guitarist. During a hectic and disruptive period of two years KISS would change from Ace Frehley to Vinnie Vincent to Mark St. John and then finally to Bruce Kulick, on guitar, with St. John lasting less than eight months. His parents moved to Garden Grove, CA in the early 1960's where Mark was initially more interested in sports than music..." [Learn Your KISSTORY Lesson!] [Post Your Comments]

From: Kulick.net
Audio Dog EP

Due to overwhelming demand, Bruce's Limited Edition Solo EP "Audio Dog" is now officially "Sold Out"! No more new orders can be taken for the "Audio Dog" EP, but all orders that have already been placed will be filled. Bruce would like to thank all the fans who have shown such enthusiastic support for the "Audio Dog" EP, and also to apologize to any of his foreign fans who experienced any glitches with the Paypal online ordering system. And for those who missed out on a copy of the EP (not to mention those who did get a copy and now can't wait for the full length album), the "Audio Dog" album release is scheduled for the beginning of April. So, be sure to keep checking back to Kulick.net this week for a look at the cover art for the full length "Audio Dog" album, as well as all the details on how to "pre-order" your copy! [Post Your Comments]

From: Kulick.net

Kulick.net is pleased to announce that all of Bruce's merchandise can now be ordered online via the Paypal (credit card) ordering system in addition to the regular mail order process. This includes all of the hand autographed, personalized Bruce photos; Bruce's "Hot Licks" instructional guitar video; and the soon to be released full length "Audio Dog" CD (ordering info coming this week!). Additionally, the awesome photo of Bruce seen on the "Audio Dog" EP jacket (and pictured here to the right), is now available for ordering. The autographed Bruce photos are $10 each, but you can order all 3 photos for a special price of $25. Click over to the Kulick.net merchandise page to view and order the photos and other Bruce merchandise! [Post Your Comments]

March 4

From: Forbes.com via Roland Quast
KISS made it into the Forbes Celebrity 100 list for 2001! KISS was ranked at 47 pulling in an estimated 24.5 million dollars in earnings. Click Here to view the KISS 2001 Forbes profile. [Post Your Comments]

From: KISS Freaks
There is really no KISS connection I know of with Cindy Margonis. I just love to watch her prance around on her show. She was once known as the most downloaded woman on the Internet. Well there are tons of KISS sites on the Internet. Ok, so there is the connection! So lets throw in a little Hot In the Shade background and some Vinnie makeup. Rock on Cindy! Stop by and check her out! http://www.kissfreaks.com [Post Your Comments]

March 1

From: KISS Freaks via Mark Bridge
In what was probably the first ever TV appearance of KISS with Eric Singer as the Catman, the band appeared yesterday morning on the "Today Show" (Australian breakfast news program). The short appearance featured the boys introducing themselves and then some jibing about "Today Show" host, Steve Liebman. Paul said that "One of the main reasons we're coming down to see ya, is because of Steve. Steve you know you're out there, and we'll go one on one with you. You may be big but we're bigger. Ace then said "No worries mate, one eye out and we`ll have a little whisky" Gene concluded by saying "And don`t forget about fair dinkum while your at it." Steve Liebman went on to say how that the word is now out and that he is a closet KISS fan and he has the first ten rows of the of the concert booked out. He then invited his female co-host to come along. All the boys looked great and Eric Singer, even in the Catman's make-up, costume and with jet black hair, still undoubtably, looked like Eric Singer. Also the promoter's website for the KISS Farewell tour in Australia, features a revised image of the band. The collage features Eric Singer in the Catman`s makeup. http://www.internationaltouring.com We may well also see revised tour ads in the press downunder. Please let me know of all sightings so that they can be passed on to your fellow members. [Post Your Comments]

From: ABC.com

Playing for their favorite charities, each musician and singer who made it to the hot seat had access to the show's three lifelines and, as usual, the questions posed encompassed a broad range of general trivia. Although not every contestant made it out of the fastest finger row, all participants were guaranteed $32,000. Who Wants To Be A Millionaire has awarded approximately $4 million to charity. To check out how well Gene Simmons did as a participant, click over to the ABC.com Who Wants To Be A Millionaire page. [Post Your Comments]

From: Loukiss98@aol.com
Just want to remind all the New England Kiss fans, that the New England Kiss Expo will be held on March 25 at the Venus De Milo in Swansea MA. It's only 15 minutes from Providence, less than an hour from Boston and only 3 hrs from NY City! It looks like we will have a really good dealer turn out this year, they will be selling all the old vintage kiss merchandise as well as the newer stuff. There will also be tons of rock and heavy metal merchandise. This years special guests will include Bruce Kulick, Bill Aucoin, WCW's The Demon and Michael Bruce ( original guitarist for Alice Cooper ). There will be live performances buy Love Gun (Kiss tribute band) and Looks that Kill (Motley Crue tribute band) Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Charge by phone 1-401-725-7156. Reserve hotel 1-508-678-4545. Dealer and Expo info 1-401-722-3981. for more info about the Expo please visit the Expo website! New England KISS Expo 2001 [Post Your Comments]