KISS ASYLUM: August 2000 News Archive

From: KISS ASYLUM

Well, Dutch KISS cover band Sweet Pain has finished most of the work on "KISS 'EM ALL", and even though the album is not scheduled for release until September 25th you can get a sneak peak of the songs now! On the band's official website there are MP3 clips (20-30 seconds each) of all the songs on the new album, as well as clips from the band's first album "KISS UNCOVERED." KISS ASYLUM has been treated to a sneak peak of the full version of "The Oath" and, in case you didn't read it in our review of Sweet Pain's debut covers disc, lead singer Mich Zwartjes can sing his ass off and Spike "3:16" Bakker can drum his ass off. Despite having picked one of, if not the most challenging songs in the KISS catalog to cover on "KISS 'EM ALL", Sweet Pain still manages to hit another one out of the park on this "Elder" cover. Steve Boender and Michel van Tongeren's guitar work on this track is flawless, with bassist Ron van Dijk seemlessly holding the whole track together (as every good bass player does!). Sweet Pain have done an absolutely amazing job with this track! Also, be on the lookout for "Every Time I Look At You" and "All Hell's Breakin' Loose" as stand outs from the new album. But don't take our word for it, check the MP3s out for yourself and if you like what you hear you can order either (or both!) of the CDs directly from the band:

KISS 'EM ALL -- $12.00 US (30 gulden for Dutch orders).

KISS UNCOVERED -- $9.00 US.

Both CDs for only $20.00 US.
Please direct orders (International Money Orders in Dutch funds only please) to: Sweet Pain, Elsgeestpolderpad 7, 2807 KZ Gouda, The Netherlands. Any questions about ordering information should be direct to the band at: mich@pain.demon.nl

August 21

From: KISS ASYLUM
To celebrate the new ownership of KissShop.com KISS ASYLUM is proud to host a great contest for all online KISS fans! There are a ton of great prizes up for grabs here everyone, and each winner will receive at least two items! KissShop.com, even though under new management, plans to continue its nearly 14 year history of brining KISS fans unparralled service on all the latest and coolest KISS merchandise: from t-shirts, to CDs, to gold album awards, to framed collectibles.... KissShop.com is the place to find it! And not only are the new owners of KissShop.com saying "Hi!" to KISS fans by donating cool prizes for this contest, they are also having an AWESOME sale on tons of merchandise! So, enter here for your chance to win, then click over to KissShop.com to check out the great sale!
Click Here To Enter The Contest

From: Adam Pope
Gene Simmons made an appearance on "Who Wants To Be A Millionaire" last night. No, not as a contestant (though he ought to), but as part of the $1,000 question. The question was: "Which of these people is not known as a lead guitarist" A) Eddie Van Halen, B) Slash, C) The Edge, and D) Gene Simmons. The woman contestant didn't know and said she had never heard of The Edge before so she polled the audience. 60% of the audience said that it was The Edge (how foolish!) and so she went with them. And as every KISS fan knows, Gene could never shred through a guitar solo like Ace and so the woman lost her chance at the $100,000,000 prize! Maybe she can spend the $1,000 she walked away with on tickets to the Farewell Tour. But you can be sure that "Tears were Falling" all the way home.

From: Kulick.net
Hello everyone! Back from my trip to Detroit, Chicago, and New York. I had quite an amazing time, so let me get right to the story. Flew into Detroit on a stormy Saturday and the promoter of the Expo had not a dinner for me to go to -- as I mentioned earlier in my report -- but a radio station sponsered KISS Expo party at a club called Bullfrog Bar and Grill. Great place and the people who own and run it were very cool to me. UNION should play there! I met my friends Lisa Zinn, Nancy O, and others who I want to thank, of course, for helping me. I am blessed with great friends that I have met through the years of being with and without KISS. The Riff, the rock station in Detroit, had one of their DJ's interview me and do a Q and A. I then gave away some KISS tickets from a drawing, and a guitar as well (not a real expensive one for those of you that are excited!). A tribute band called Detroit Rock City played, and I stayed for half the set, and then off to a late dinner with the promoter and my friends. Next day was the Detroit Expo, which remember I needed to leave by 3:00 PM because I needed to catch a flight to Chicago for the Foxxfest. Well, that was a bit stressful. I never did two in one day, and you know the weather in the Midwest can be quite unpredictable. The fans in Detroit were very cool and the event was well received. I took lots of photos etc., and really remember two teenagers who were much younger when they had the privilege of jamming with KISS at the '95 KISS convention... you know the one that sang "X in Sex" and her brother who played drums. It was cool to see them growing up. Thanks again to my friends who helped! Off to catch a plane to Chicago and that was a lucky flight. Ten minutes after arriving in Chicago "All Hell's Breaking Loose" to quote KISS, and the sky opens up with a monsoon. An elevator that I was in with my luggage stopped midfloor, as the storm shut down power for a few minutes. NOT a good feeling.
Click Over To Kulick.net To Read The Full Message From Bruce!

From: KNAC.com
Richie "The Emperor" Scarlet is one of those rockers who is fairly well-known by Music-biz insiders and other musicians, but is sadly overlooked by the public at large. His credits include his stellar lead and rhythm guitar work on Ace Frehley's "Trouble Walking" album on Megaforce Records, and his contributions to Sebastian Bach's "Bring 'em Bach Alive" album on Spitfire Records, which had both live and studio tracks featuring Scarlet's work. He's also toured extensively with both bands, as well as a member of Leslie 'Mountain' West's touring band. None other than Pantera's Dimebag Darrell has declared Scarlet as "The Man", and would love to take lessons from him! Even so, his recent solo records, released on indie label Axis Records, have gone virtually unnoticed...... until now.
Click Here To Read The Full Album Reviews

August 20

From: KISS ASYLUM
Well, reports that the Hard Rock Cafe was one of the big purchasers at the recent KISS Auction were not exaggerated. HardRock.com has put together a very nice write up about KISS in general, and about the memorabilia they picked up at the auction in particular. Most of the items are on display at the Hard Rock Cafe in Orlando, and there is a picture of each item (along with an individual write up for each) featured up on their website.
Click Here To Check It Out!

From: Finn Haakon Rodland
During the winter, you could find many rumours on the internet or in the newspapers about KISS quitting the game. And finally the news came, KISS was going to do a last tour, the Farewell Tour. But the impossible was going to happen; the tour was supposed to just be in America, they were not coming to Norway and Europe!! The thought of never seeing them live one more time was heartbreaking, and I can imagine that we weren't the only ones sitting late one night drinking some cold beers, dreaming about a last KISS in America? In this case, it was more than just some foolish talk forgotten next day. It was real for us. We decided to travel to New York and see KISS at Madison Square Guarden (MSG) the 10th and 11th of July. These dates were not confirmed, but we took the chance. After many hours of work, tickets to the flight was arranged, and a hotel in Manhattan was booked for six persons. The company who was going besides myself and my girlfriend Mari Sandnes, were Lars Petter Strand, Henrik Engebretsen, Gry Thorsen and Håkon Glenne. As time went away, there never came any confirmation regarding MSG, and today you know that there is no final word concerning MSG as of yet. We instead decided to buy tickets to the concerts in Scranton the 7th of July and Hartford the 8th of July when these where put out to sale. Both Scranton and Hartford are approximately 2-3 hours of drive from New York City, and we had a rented car waiting at the airport to take us to the KISS-concerts. Everything was supposed to be in order now. Even the fact that I broke my leg a couple of weeks before the trip wasn't going to ruin this. Unfortunately our worst nightmare did take place when we were on our way to the USA as there was some kind of a storm in Paris where we were supposed to land and switch flights, and we had to stay there for a day waiting for the weather to get better. We sat in Hard Rock Cafe in Paris that night, knowing that KISS was going on stage in Scranton in a few hours, and not knowing if we were going to make Hartford either.......
Click Here To Read The Full Trip Report!

August 19

From: John Henderson of The Hutchinson News
John Henderson recently reached out to KISS ASYLUM visitors to try and find KISS fans in the Kansas area for some articles he was preparing for The Hutchinson News. Well, you can always count on the KISS Army to come through, and John was able to get in touch with several Kansas area KISS fans for his stories. John was also able to interview Gene Simmons himself, and the results of both articles are now up for viewing on the Hutchinson News' website. John wanted us to pass on a special thanks to all the KISS ASYLUM visitors who got in touch with him!
Click Here For John's Interview With Gene
Click Here For Kansas KISS Fan Stories

August 18

August 16

From: Kathy Labonte
Well folks, "Creatures of The Net - A New Millennium" was officially released on August 3rd and is now available for sale. This special re-release of the 2000 edition is bigger and better than the 1998 original featuring many of the same classics as before plus brand new tracks, a new CD booklet, and 3 all new special collectable inserts! Quick highlights: early reviews are raving about 2 particular tracks. The first one is the all acoustic performance of "Tomorrow" by glam band SHAMELESS, based in Germany and featuring lead vocals by former Pretty Boy Floyd frontman, Steve Summers. The second one has been discovered as the hidden (shhh!) bonus track on the disc by Canadian band KILT and has captured everyone's attention early on. This unlisted surprise addition to the CD features the fun Irish dance band doing "I Was Made For Lovin' You" in a keg drinkin', jig happy complete turnaround of the once disco rock tune. It's hilarious. In addition to those above, other tunes getting early thumbs up reviews are the hard hitting heavy rock versions of "I Stole Your Love" and "Not For The Innocent". There are 20 tracks total - something for everyone including the return of the Partridge Family Tribute band performing "Shout It Out Loud" which was mixed by Bob Ezrin. This track alone created quite a stir with not only the fans and the ,media, but with Gene and Paul as well. This Millennium release of Creatures also marks a change in charities. After reaching the $5,000 mark with the Children's Hospital of Wisconsin, KAOL has decided to earmark all future profits to the Alzheimer's Association. Please join us by purchasing this great new disc from the KISS Army OnLine. Order now at www.kissarmyonline.com

From: Zap2it.com
Gene Simmons, lead singer of the heavy-metal group Kiss, will executive produce the CBS TV movie,"Rock and Roll All Night," with Stanley Brooks. According to The Hollywood Reporter, the story follows a guy who meets a girl during a Kiss concert. The two get separated, and spend the rest of the movie trying to find eachother. Jeff Arch, who created the story for "Sleepless in Seattle," is writing the script. Simmons pitched the telefilm directly to CBS Television president and CEO Les Moonves, according to sources. "Rock and Roll All Night" will be the second Kiss-related film with which he has been involved. In 1978, he and his band members starred in the horror telefilm "Kiss Meets the Phantom of the Park." Simmons also produced and co-starred alongside his band members in the 1999 film "Detroit Rock City," about a group of teens heading to a Kiss concert.

From: skunkchild@t-online.de
Gene Simmons co-wrote a song for the new SHAMELESS CD "Queen 4 A Day." Gene called Stevie Rachelle during the recordings and offered us to use one of his songs that he co-wrote together with Tommy Thayer. Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick also appear on the new disc which will be released through MTM Music this September. Starting this Saturday you will be able to check out that song in the mp3 section of our website. SHAMELESS will go on tour this fall through Holland and Germany. Ex-KISS guitarist Bruce Kulick will join them on the encores to play a few KISS and SHAMELESS songs. For more informations about SHAMELESS check www.shamelessrock.com

August 15

From: Metal Edge Online
KISS' Gene Simmons spent a day off from the Farewell Tour filming a cameo role as a record company executive in the made-for-VH1 movie At Any Cost, which airs Wednesday, August 16, at 9 and 11 PM ET/PT. Simmons had to turn down another TV assignment due to a scheduling conflict, which is how tour merchandise coordinator Spiro Papadatos, who works for Sony Signatures, got to play him in an episode of Fox's "That '70s Show." Papadatos, who used to portray Simmons in a KISS tribute band and has been his stunt double and lighting stand-in in the past, will be seen in a dream sequence in an episode airing in October. Simmons, meanwhile, has no less than 28 screen projects in various stages of development that will keep him quite busy post-tour. Most will find him in a producer capacity, but he will appear as the host of Gene Simmons' Chill-O-Rama, an MTV anthology series that takes a cue from old-style monster movies. He'll also appear in the black comedy "Wish You Were Dead," which is awaiting a distributor and a release date.

From: KISS ASYLUM
Former Frehley's Comet band member Tod Howarth's official website has a fresh new look, and as part of the new look the Official Tod Howarth Bulletin Board has been launched at the Rock & Roll Bulletin Board Forum at KISSASYLUM.COM. In addition to his stint with Frehley's Comet, Tod has also played professionally with 707, Ted Nugent, and Cheap Trick (including the recent 25 Year Cheap Trick Celebration), as well as issuing three brilliant solo albums -- Silhouette, Cobalt Parlor, and his most recent release, West of Eight. This new forum will be a great place to discuss all things related to Tod and his career as well as to leave messages and questions for Tod, who has already posted on the bulletin board himself several times!
Click Over To The Rock & Roll Bulletin Board To Check It Out!

August 14

From: Metal Edge Online
KISS fans at the Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre in Laguna Hills, California on Friday night didn't know it, but they very nearly did not see Ace Frehley perform. Tommy Thayer, KISS' road manager who'd impersonated Ace in the tribute band COLD GIN in the early '90s, dug out his old costume and wig and put on the Spaceman makeup, because Frehley was missing in action. KISS had had a few days' break in the tour, and Frehley had gone home. Trouble was, he missed three flights over two days that would retun him to California. Ultimately, he arrived at the venue less than an hour before showtime, only because a helicopter airlifted him from Los Angeles International to the Orange County location. Thayer was relieved, and Gene Simmons was unsurprised by the incident. "Ace has always been notorious for being late," he said, recounting stories of press conferences and rehearsals the guitarist missed, including the first reunion tour rehearsal in Detroit in 1996. "He's oblivious to the laws of time." Simmons felt that, in true showbiz tradition, the show must go on, as it did at the Columbus, Georgia show in 1997 when drum tech Eddie Kannon went on for an ailing Peter Criss. "Our responsibility is to the fans," said Simmons, who believe most wouldn't have minded the substitute "as long as you're truthful and honest and say, 'Here's what it is: Ace didn't make it.'" Frehley, who was present and accounted for at the following night's concert at the Glen Helen Blockbuster Pavilion in Devore, California, will have to foot the bill for the copter.

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."
Chapter 21: It's A Chicken... It's A Hawk... No, it's Rusty Blades... - "Eric Carr once stated in an interview, "I looked like Chicken Man. I looked like a big chicken. If the fans had hated me and had thrown things at me to kill me, I wouldn't have blamed them. Because it was ridiculous"(DS-BD2). I originally wrote much of this article for a tribute to Eric Carr on the KISS ASYLUM in November 1997 to celebrate the life an times of an important figure in KISStory who should never be forgotten. It remains very relevant, particularly for the new Album Focus Section titled, "It's A Chicken... It's A Hawk... No, it's Rusty Blades!"..." Click Here To Learn Your KISSTORY Lesson!

From: KISS ASYLUM
KISS has a long-standing history with live albums, beginning with their break through classic Alive! After nearly thirty years and three live albums, the band stood poised earlier this year to release their fourth live album, Alive IV. The album, however, has been indefinitely delayed and the reasons for the delay seem to vary depending upon who you talk to. Whatever the reason for the delay, it seems the real could be asked at this point not when will Alive IV be released.... but will it be released? In KISS ASYLUM's latest Fan Feedback poll we ask the question: "Do you think Alive IV will ever be officially released?" Click over to www.kissasylum.com/poll/ to cast your vote and make your opinion heard. Also, don't forget to post up your comments about the uncertain status of the Alive IV release on KISS ASYLUM's KISS Army Online bulletin board at www.kissasylum.com/bbs/

From: Catseyes.net
Just a note to let all the Peter Criss fans out there know that the Catseyes.net website has recently added the music video for "Show Me" from Peter's 1994 "CrissCat #1" album. Click on over and check out the video and this cool website dedicated entirely to the one and only Catman!

From: KISS ASYLUM
In KISS ASYLUM's last Fan Feedback poll we wanted to know "What type of sound would you prefer for Peter Criss' next solo album?" Well, the KISS Army turned out in full force to give the Catman their feedback. And though "Hard Rockers" was the overall winner with nearly 50% of the total votes, the voting was actually relatively spread out over the three categories more than expected. The detailed breakdown is as follows: "Hard Rockers" 2117 (47%); "Mix of Both" 1609 (35% of the vote); "Jazz/Big Band" 846 (18% of the vote).

From: KISS ASYLUM
"SOUND OFF" is the place where YOU get a chance to be a guest columnist at KISS ASYLUM. If you have something you want to get off your chest and share with other KISS fans about these (or any other) KISS related topics we encourage you to email us and submit the essay! "SOUND OFF" is looking for well written essay length analysis on any KISS related topics. No essay will be rejected simply because it contains an unpopular or "controversial" topic or opinion.... as long as it's KISS related and well written it's fair game! Recent articles have included: The Who Was THE Major Musical Influence On KISS * VH1 Presale Disappointment * How Much Money Do Paul And Gene Need? * In Defense Of Ted Nugent * The Magic Was & Always Will Be Within Us * Plus OVER 100 other substantive, well written musings from your fellow members of the KISS Army! What are you waiting for? Pick a topic that's been on your mind and "SOUND OFF" KISS Army!
Click Here To Read The KISS Army "Sound Off" Essays & To Submit Your Own!

From: Mich Zwartjes
Sweet Pain are almost done recording all instruments and vocals for their new album "KISS 'EM ALL." The album will be mixed in the coming week and the expected release date is targeted for September 25, 2000. In the meantime, the band still has a contest running and a new winner has been announced. Winners to date are: Janice Richardson * adkissrocks@aol.com (no name given) * and Shawn Darling. If you are a winner go to the Sweet Pain website and follow the info for collecting your prize -- and please don't forget the deadline for winner responses is September 10th!

From: KISS Army Omaha
The show is set and the tickets are selling to the BIGGEST Farewell Tour Party in the US! And it's right here in the middle of the country. Sunday August 27th from 5p-10p at South Sokol Hall 2021 U St, come witness the spectical that is the "Farewell Tour Y2KISS Party"! Tickets are $10.00 and are available at Hooters in Omaha, JD Music, McGill Travel in Council Bluffs and all 5 Sam Goody/Musicland locations in Omaha and Council Bluffs. Support our sponsors! Highlights include: Bruce Kulick Q & A, autographs and photos, on stage with Omaha's own KAO (KISS Army Omaha) Band featuring Jackson Christian, Scott Murphy and Jeff Peck. Peter Criss' "Alive" Tour drum set on display and have your photo taken in Peter's place! Local Rockers 3 Day Meat Sale and OX 45 opening the show (you don't want to miss these bands). Vendors on hand: Hooters Restaurant will have their famous food and the world famous Hooters Girls!!! As well as t-shirts, calanders etc. Sam Goody will have KISS cd's and merchandise for sale (perfect for Bruce to sign). Lynette Lynch will have her famous Big face air brushed t-shirts available (including some limited edition Bruce Kulick shirts). Peter Criss and Eric Singer signature drum sticks from JD Music will be on hand. McGill Travel-Official travel agent for KISS Army Omaha and Bruce Kulick (when he's coming to Omaha) will be there with info for your next vacation. Secondary Emission will be filming for some episodes. Omaha Weekly will have ads and an interview with Bruce Kulick in the next couple weeks. The KAO Band will be on Z-92's Todd & Tyler show at 9:30am on Friday August 25th. Slam Omaha has a banner and info and is giving 5 pairs of tickets to this on their webite at www.slamomaha.com Door prizes donated by Spencer Gifts, KISS Army Omaha and JD Music will be given away via raffle tickets that can be purchased for $1.00 at the Party with the proceeds going to the Eric Carr Foundation for cancer research. The big door prize, an electric guitar donated by JD Music and being autographed by Bruce in front of the winner! Don't miss the chance to say farewell to the Hottest Band in the Land in style!! BE THERE!

August 11

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 the complete "Rock & Roll Over", "Psycho Circus", "Unmasked", "Lick It Up","Destroyer" and "KISS" albums, as well as "Nothing Can Keep Me From You" from the Detroit Rock City soundtrack. Just added this week, Side 4 of "ALIVE II" * "KILLERS" (new material) and "SMASHES THRASHES & HITS" (new material). While we've got a great start here, 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! Click Here To View The KISS Guitar Tabs!

From: Mandy Strunk
Rain beat the Midwest practically to a pulp, hundreds of flights to and from Chicago were cancelled but FoxxFest 2000 opened its doors to an enthusiastic crowd eager to remember Paul Caravello's extraordinary life and career. Better known to most as Eric Carr, the Fox, he drummed for Kiss from 1980 until his death from cancer in 1991. The Hemmen's Auditorium in Elgin, Illinois was dressed to kill for the first annual Eric Carr Foundation memorial known as FoxxFest. High above the main entrance, two banners rippled in the wind; one a logo of The Children's Memorial Hospital of Chicago for which a portion of the event's proceeds will be benefiting, and the other banner, a hauntingly accurate acrylic painting of Eric Carr's famous fox. Once inside this outstanding auditorium, FoxxFest staff members assisted with tickets, answered questions, and shared with visitors about the day's events. Kiss merchandise vendors from across the United States elaborately displayed memorabilia and collectibles for sale to the public. After a warm welcome from Don and Faith Walker, event coordinator, Jennifer Biehler, Development Coordinator for The Children's Memorial Hospital of Chicago took the stage and spoke expressing their appreciation for being the recipient of FoxxFest's generosity. On three wide screens that surrounded the stage, a short film was shown explaining the role of The Children's Memorial Hospital in the community, its foundation, and its goals in medical care.
Click Here To Read The Full Review

From: KISS ASYLUM

Dutch KISS cover band Sweet Pain drummer Spike is in the process of designing the album cover for "KISS 'EM ALL" and has set up a page to allow fans to follow along in the creative process. The album cover, a very clever take-off on the "Love Gun" album cover, will be featured from initial concept through finished product on Spike's website, and a new update has recently been added for viewing. You've heard the music, now come along for the "birth of an album cover" and watch as Spike brings the "KISS 'EM ALL" cover to life!
Click Here To View The "KISS 'EM ALL" Cover In Progress

August 10

From: Darrell - President KAO
Omaha's big send off party, "Farewell Tour Y2KISS" is growing every day! Bruce Kulick will be doing a Q & A and signing and posing for photos all evening, as well as doing a little performing with the KAO (KISS Army Omaha) Band. 3 Day Meat Sale will open the live entertainment. Also on hand will be Peter Criss's drum set from the "Alive Tour"! You can sit in Peter's place for a photo with proceeds from that and a raffle going to the Eric Carr foundation for cancer research. Tattoo and costume contests as well as the big giveaway, an autographed electric guitar by Bruce! Food provided by Hooters and yes the HOOTERS Girls will be there!! Tickets in Omaha can be purchased at HOOTERS, JD MUSIC, McGILL TRAVEL, and all 5 SAM GOODY locations. Out of state guests can purchase tickets directly from KISS Army Omaha by sending a $10.00 money order to: KISS Army Omaha P.O. Box 680 Council Bluffs, IA 51502-0680. The event is Sunday August 27th from 5pm-10pm at South Sokol Hall, 2021 U Street in Omaha. For information or directions contact us at kissarmyomaha@yahoo.com or visit our site at http://kissarmyomaha.tripod.com

From: Kathy Labonte
The KISS Army OnLine (KAOL) will have a table set up at the Montreal KISS Expo on August 27th. For those of you planning to attend, please stop by the table to puchase the lastest KAOL projects. We will have the following items on sale: The brand new release "Creatures of The Net - A New Millennium". This is the KISS Tribute CD from the musicians within the KISS Army around the world. There are 3 collectable inserts within the jewel box, 20 tracks of music including an appearance by Bob Ezrin, and an acoustic performance by Shameless featuring former Pretty Boy Floyd vocalist, Steve Summers. Also on sale: "A World Without Heroes" hand numbered, limited edition novel by Dale Sherman including a 70 minute KAOL Soundtrack CD. Over 200 pages of truth and fiction adventure about KISS. Each chapter has a corresponding KISS song re-recorded to tell the story musically. Includes a customized pen and bookmark set and a Certificate of Authenticity signed by Dale. Both items will be on sale at the Montreal table. ALL PROCEEDS FROM THESE PROJECTS ARE DONATED TO 2 SPECIFIC CHARITIES: The Official KAOL/Eric Carr Memorial Fund at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin where the KISS Army has raised over $5,000 since 1997 and the Massachussetts Alzheimer's Association where a new fund is being set up this year. Please stop by the Expo table or check our our website to order: www.kissarmyonline.com

From: Chris A. Carnaghi
Gene and Paul are scheduled to be on the Mark and Brian show Thursday Morning 6 to 10am PST. Gene and Paul will probably be on somewhere around 8 or 9:00. You can listen to the show through the web-site at http://www.955klos.com/ or check out the web site for local radio stations that syndicate the Mark and Brian show. Should be fun! A listener will be calling in to the show with the Wicked Lester Demo and tease Gene and Paul about their "Jethro Tull on crack" sound that they had back then. ie. flutes and the very un-kiss-like sound they had.

August 9

From: KISS ASYLUM
Just a reminder to all the KISS fans to vote in KISS ASYLUM's latest Fan Feedback poll. While the Farewell Tour would appear to herald the end of KISS as an ongoing musical entity in full band form, the chances are very high that we will be able to look forward to solo efforts by at least one or two of the band members. In fact, in addition to wanting to work on a biography Peter Criss has also expressed a desire to put out another solo album after the completion of KISS' Farewell Tour. The only question for Peter seems to be what type of sound to go for on the album. Will he indulge his passion for the jazz/big band sound, or will he cut lose with an album full of hard rockers like "Baby Driver" and "Bad Attitude"? Well, The Catman wants the KISS Army and all his fans to tell him what you want to hear! In KISS ASYLUM's latest Fan Feedback poll we ask the question: "What type of sound would you prefer for Peter Criss' next solo album?" Click over to www.kissasylum.com/poll/ to cast your vote and make your opinion heard. Also, don't forget to post up your comments about the sound for The Catman's next solo album on KISS ASYLUM's KISS Army Online bulletin board at www.kissasylum.com/bbs/

August 8

From: KNAC.com
I spent an hour last weekend with Gene Simmons before KISS' performance at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas. The conversation went many places, including religion, sex, power and ego. I'm going to be airing several segments from that interview as well as attempting an on air examination of the God of Thunder's soul. It could get pretty, uh, dark. Please join me Wednesday, August 09, at 10:00 PM PT to hear the interview!

From: Toyfare.com via Mike
ToyFare: At last count, you had an action figure, a comic book, you've been in a bunch of movies, you have an video gameŠwhat else do you have going on? Gene Simmons: I'm also producing "Jon Sable," the movie with Steven DeSousa writing, Ian Newmans for Avi Arad at Pacifica and tons of other stuff, including "Magnus Robot Fighter," which I'm seeking Nicholas Cage for.
TF: Nicholas Cage as Magnus, huh?
GS: Nicholas Cage as Magnus. I am on the lookout for comic-based material, as long as it's got some depth to it.
TF: Now that you've got your fingers in so many pots, how does that feel? Is that different from simply being a rock star?
GS: Well, for KISS and for me, it's never really been about rock stars and music. I'll grant you, the records are important for music, but above and beyond that , as soon as you get to the live performance, it's no longer about records. And when you bring your eyes as well as your ears to the live performance, it becomes a different thing. Then you have to be an entertainer, not a musician. Musicians look at their shoes and their fret boards on their guitar. Entertainers look at the audience and try to do something. When we're on records we have guitars on. When we're comic-book super-heroes, we're comic book heroes. When we're action figures we're action figures. So it's always been multi-faceted.
TF: Is music still your one true love?
GS: It never was!
TF: Never?
GS: No! It's like asking people what their favorite meal is. Nobody has just one. You know, we like soup to nuts.
Click Here To Read The Full Interview!

August 6

From: KNAC.com
KNAC.com was in Las Vegas to catch the KISS show and took some great live concert shots. Click over to KNAC.com to see these cool live photos!

From: Ronn Roxburgh

The new issue of FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE is finally here! On August 1st, FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE #80 was released. This issue is the 16th Anniversary issue of FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE! Inside you will find exclusive New Year's Eve 2000 concert coverage from our hometown of Vancouver, BC, CANADA; the results of the 16th Annual Readers Poll; and interview with Adam Mitchell talking about his involvement with the Eric Carr projects; KISS Konnection - Puzzle #2, Part 1 of It's a Small KISS World, taking a look at all the KISS Konnections that have occurred over the past 27 years in the KISS universe; The Ultimate Set List, FIREHOUSE readers get the chance to create the ultimate KISS set list; KISS Odds & Ends: No Nashville Pussy For Gene; Get Out Your Love Guns; KISS Photo Phunnies; KISS the Moose; KISS Record Sales; Fan Spotlight, Getting to know the Firehouse members one at a time; our always popular Letter Spot, where FIREHOUSE members voice their opinions and share their thoughts; the KISS Shop and lots more! To receive a copy of this issue, send $4 check or money order (payable to Ronn Roxburgh) to: FIREHOUSE MAGAZINE, #66 7158 138 Street, Surrey, BC, CANADA V3W 7V7. And be sure to visit our official web page right here on KISS ASYLUM at www.kissasylum.com/firehouse

From: KISS ASYLUM
Bruce Kulick will be doing an interview with Sparky from the Blaze on Monday, August 7th at 3:00 p.m. You can listen to the broadcast on the web by going to www.kibz.com.

From: Steve Stierwalt, Jr.

Of course everyone has heard of the show "Survivor" by now. You may have also seen our links to Metal Sludge and their rock version called Sludgevivor at www.metal-sludge.com. I thought about this after I saw their version and said, "why should they have all of the fun bashing our favorite musical icons." We are the KISS Army, we are big enough to have own Survivor parody. After about fifteen minutes of very hard thinking, smoke began to bezel out of the back of my bald head. Then it occurred to me like a bad Vinnie Vincent guitar solo.. KISSVIVOR! By enlisting the help of the Unknown KISS Comic we proceeded to develop the story. The idea of course is the same as the show. Current and former members of KISS and their alter egos are left on KISS Island, which is somewhere off the coast of LA owned by Gene Simmons. The last KISS member on the island at the end gets to keep all of the money from the recent KISS Auction. Each week you get to vote someone off, by using the KISS Freaks Poll on the left hand side of your browser. Once a person has been booted, we will give the breakdown of why the other KISS members voted him off of KISS Island. So make sure you vote every week. When you are done voting send us an email and tell us why you think that person should be removed from KISS Island.
Click Here To Vote A Band Member Off KISS Island

From: KNAC.com
KNAC.COM recently joined KISS in Las Vegas for their spectacular show at Mandalay Bay and were invited back to their hotel room for pre-show festivities. Well, boy were we surprised when we walked into Gene's room and were greeted by the Demon himself and formally introduced to a giant breast cake! Yes, you heard us right! We were just as surprised as Gene by the monster mammary cake presented to Gene by the head chef of The Bellagio when he checked into the hotel. The single mammary was about 12" in circumference and made of marzipan and devils food, although we suspect there was some "milk" chocolate in there somewhere. Check out the picture if you want to "cop a feel" of what this sweet baby was like!!

From: KISS ASYLUM

Former Frehley's Comet band member Tod Howarth's official website has a fresh new look. After experiencing some technical difficulties over the past few weeks (wonder if Tod ever found a big enough hammer!), todhowarth.com is once again up and running at full speed. Says Tod, "The new site is up finally. We've got a few things to add, but the bulk of it is there!!" With sections including: Lyrics, Past Music, About Tod, Listen Now, and Tod's Hobbies, the site offers just about all the info you could want about Tod, his musical past, as well as his current and future projects.
Click Here To Visit The New Todhowarth.com

August 5

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 the complete "Rock & Roll Over", "Psycho Circus", "Unmasked", "Lick It Up" and "KISS" albums, as well as "Nothing Can Keep Me From You" from the Detroit Rock City soundtrack. Just added this week, the complete "DESTROYER" album! While we've got a great start here, 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! Click Here To View The KISS Guitar Tabs!

From: Paul Finn - KISSin' UK
The newly released UK version of The Second Coming does not include the booklet that came with the US version. However, a special Christmas boxed set is planned for both VHS and DVD. The boxed set will include a colour booklet, a music CD and a T-shirt. As of yet, it is unknown what will be on the music CD. Also, thanks to Aviva International and Direct Video Distribution, I have 2 copies of The Second Coming video (PAL only) and 2 copies of the DVD (region 2 only) to give away over at KISSin' UK. The competition is open to everybody, but you must be able to view PAL videos or region 2 (Europe) DVD's. All you have to do is answer 3 easy questions that can be found at KISSin' UK.

From: KISS ASYLUM
Well, the very talented Dutch KISS tribute band Sweet Pain are now in the studio recording their second album, "KISS 'EM ALL." Says Sweet Pain drummer Spike of the recording process, "We started the recording yesterday evening by taking all our gear to the studio and setting up my drum kit with all the mics and stuff. It took us hours to create a great recording sound to work with! We're gonna start the first recording session Sunday morning 10 am! I expect to finish the drum parts by Sunday evening, and then Ron can record some bass tracks!" Be sure to check out the band members' daily diaries on the Sweet Pain message board. In other Sweet Pain news, it seems the interest in the boys' "KISS 'EM ALL." has already paid off as Sweet Pain are going to be featured on a brand new US tribute CD called "A KISS Tribute" (expected release date Halloween 2000). The band will contribute their version of "Unholy" from their forthcoming "KISS 'EM ALL" album (expected release date September 2000).

From: Benjamin Jones
I am writing a book on the fan culture that surrounds KISS and need to interview some fans who have been to many shows on this current tour, as well as ones from the 70's and 80's. My book will be focusing on the ritualistic aspect of KISS concerts and I'd like to get in contact with some people who wouldn't mind being interviewed for possible inclusion. If you have cool KISS concert stories you'd like to share please email me at: kissbook@hotmail.com

From: Gerhard Wimmer

The new KISS Psycho Circus PC Game has been released in Germany with all 4 members on the front of the box and the German KISS logo. The game is completely in German (German language, CD-Rom and description). A lot of German PC magazines have major features about the game in their latest issues: PC Action (8/2000), 4 pages; Game Star (9/2000), 2 pages; PC Player (9/2000), 4 pages; PC Games (9/2000), 2 pages + 2 a page advert for the game; PC Heft & Spiel (9/2000), 2 pages.

August 3

From: VH1.com
Attention KISS Army members! Submit the best photo of you as a KISS fan (in costume, with your collection, meeting the band, etc.) and appear on VH1's hottest new show, Fan Club! Send your photo with a signed copy of the VH1 photo release to: Grace Oh, VH1 Fan Club, 12233 West Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90064. A signed release must be submitted for each person in the photo (unless it's a member of KISS). Parents/Guardians must sign for people under 18 years of age. The best photos will be selected by August 14th. Photos will NOT be returned. E-mail submissions are not acceptable.

From: KISS ASYLUM & The Spider's Web
Well, the good folks at McFarlane Toys have really outdone themselves this time! The newest line of KISS action figures, based on the infamous KISS Alive! album cover photo, are expected to be available sometime in September and are truly the best looking line yet! With a direct link to the people at McFarlane Toys, The Spider's Web is the fastest, most reliable, reasonably priced place on the web to pre-order your set of KISS Alive! action figures. And unlike some places, The Spider's Web will not charge your credit card for pre-order items until the week they ship your action figures! You don't pay until your figures are ready! The Spider's Web is taking pre-orders for the entire KISS Alive! set of figures right now for only $42.95 plus shipping and handling. And even though the figures won't be available for another month or so, by pre-ordering them now from the most reliable place online for McFarlane Toys/KISS action figures you can avoid the hassle of searching all over town and ensure your complete set of these awesome KISS Alive! action figures will arrive right to your door as soon as they are available!
Click Over To The Spider's Web To Pre-Order KISS Alive! Figures

August 2

From: KISS ASYLUM
VH1 has a new feature -- The 100 Greatest Rock 'n Roll Moments On Television -- which "counts down the moments when what was on TV was actually more interesting than the commercial breaks." In the installment which counts down numbers 100-81 KISS comes in at #82 with their appearance on MTV without make-up for the very first time.

From: CDnow.com

Wearing full signature stage make-up, black boots, and armor, KISS members Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley dropped by San Francisco's infamous Phoenix Hotel on Monday (July 31) night to help celebrate the launch of Third Law Interactive's new PC game, KISS Psycho Circus: The Nightmare Child. Although it was rumored that the band members would mingle with party-goers around the hotel's bar and outdoor swimming pool (which was lined with consoles running demo versions of the video game) Simmons and Stanley spent most of the night out of sight in one of the Phoenix's kitschy tropical-themed rooms, greeting a procession of fans in small clusters. Click Here To Read The Full Article

From: Eric Tripp
I was at the release party last night and thought I'd share a few photos with you. We were one of the fortunate groups of people who were able to go into "Room 31" to meet Gene and Paul. The whole evening was surreal. It felt like 1970's LA at a cheesy looking two story motel. People played demos and games all night while snacking on munchies provided by the Backflip Bar in the Phoenix Hotel. Here are a few photos we took that we would like to share with fans:
Photo 1 | Photo 2 | Photo 3

August 1

From: KISS ASYLUM

By now you are all aware of the very talented Dutch KISS cover band Sweet Pain and their plans for a second KISS tribute album, to be called "KISS 'EM ALL." Well, it turns out that Sweet Pain drummer Spike is a multi-talented man who, in addition to severely punishing any drum kit he touches, also has a very skilled touch with pen & ink as well. Spike, who is a well known cartoonist in Holland, is in the process of designing the album cover for "KISS 'EM ALL" and has set up a page to allow fans to follow along in the creative process. The album cover, a very clever take-off on the "Love Gun" album cover, will be featured from initial concept through finished product, and there are currently already numerous sketches and line art up for viewing. You've heard the music, now come along for the "birth of an album cover" and watch as Spike brings the "KISS 'EM ALL" cover to life!
Click Here To View The "KISS 'EM ALL" Cover In Progress

From: Third Law Interactive & Gathering of Developers
Third Law Interactive and Gathering of Developers will be releasing a KISS Psycho Circus: The Nightmare Child Collector's Edition for the PC. The Collector's Edition game box features linticular 3D visuals of Todd McFarlane's depictions of the Psycho Circus KISS characters juxtaposed with the famous original paintings of the band members that were featured on their four solo albums. "Die-hard KISS fans and McFarlane fans alike will love the Collector's Edition's incredible artwork and contents," said Mike Wilson, CEO of Gathering of Developers.

From: RollingStone.com via Drago Bonacich
Bristow, Virginia, July 1st - "We're here tonight testifying to the almighty power of rock & roll!" shrieked Kiss' Paul Stanley as he pranced bare-chested across the stage in front of 17,000 cheering fans. After twenty-seven years, the world's most famous make-up wearing, fire-spitting, blood-drooling band is calling it quits with a monster farewell tour/money grab: From March 11th - June 30th, they played sixty-six shows in sixty-one cities and grossed $39 million, with another forty or so U.S. and Canadian shows to come.
Click Here To Read The Full Article.

From: Sonicnet.com
[Evansville Courier & Press] Some dress like the band, some bring their kids along. Rick Barton named his two daughters, Beth and Shandi, after Kiss songs. His back is covered with tattoos of the band. He says he's seen them in concert 392 times. So when Barton heard Evansville was a stop on the rock band's farewell tour this year, he wanted to be sure he got front-row tickets. That's why he arrived at Roberts Stadium on Tuesday to stand in line for tickets, which didn't go on sale until 10 a.m. Saturday.
Click Here To Read The Full Article