Since 1995, The Longest Running KISS Website & The Online Home For KISS Fans Everywhere!

May 2008 News

Page updated on May 31, 2008
All news should be considered an unconfirmed report unless verified, and all information published at KISS Asylum is attributed to the source from which it was received so that readers may judge the validity of the statements for themselves. All information is confirmed where possible, and all publication is governed by common sense.

Have KISS news to report? Email us at news@kissasylum.com.

From: The Artist's Magazine
Posted: May 30, 2008

Picking up a paintbrush wasn’t unprecedented for PAUL STANLEY. Throughout his career with the rock band KISS, applying face paint was a precursor to an over-the-top performance. But eight years ago, a painful divorce let him to extend his reach. Stanley had kept a sketchbook for years, and a friend who saw his drawings urged him to try his hand at painting as a form of catharsis.

Stanley bought canvases "without a clue of what to do" and began painting. The only ground rules he set for himself were that he "wasn’t going to get bogged down with trying to depict things too realistically at the expense of emotion or immediacy."

Los Angeles resident Stanley, who describes his early works as a "stream of consciousness using color and texture instead of words," says an unsigned painting he created and hung in his house repeatedly resonated with visitors. "People would ask me who did it and where it was from," he says. Their interest was enough to convince him that his paintings might have a broader purpose beyond private catharsis. He was quickly proved right.
[more]

From: Guitar Magazine Germany
by Jeff Waters
Posted: May 30, 2008

Jeff: First off, for those who may not be familiar with the history of TOMMY THAYER, or think that you are just a relatively new replacement or fill-in for ACE FREHLEY, please tell us about your extensive resume; not just your accomplishments in Black and Blue, but also with your being an integral part of the KISS family for an amazing 14 years.

Tommy: Going back to Black and Blue in the 80's, for people that don't know, we moved to Los Angeles in early 1983 from Portland, where we started out. Quiet Riot and Motley Crue were starting to do well and we just knew that, since we were writing our own stuff, that LA would be the best place for us to be. Within 6 months, we had a record deal; John Kalodner signed us at Geffen Records and envisioned us as being the American Def Leppard. We put out 4 records for Geffen through the 80's up to 1990 and did moderately well but we never really broke, for whatever reason.

Jeff: And somewhere along the line, you crossed paths with Gene.
[more]

From: Tahoe Daily Tribune
Posted: May 30, 2008

Get ready to rock and roll all night Lake Tahoe, KISS is coming to the South Shore.

John Koster, regional president of Harrah's Northern Nevada operations, made the announcement at the Lake Tahoe Visitors Authority Board of Directors meeting today.

Koster said with the line-up this year, it definitely could be the best year for the Harveys Outdoor Concert Series.

KISS will be playing August 30 in the Harvey’s Outdoor Arena.

From: ExpressenTV
Posted: May 30, 2008

Over 1000 members of the Swedish KISS Army came out for Tommy & Eric's Stockholm In-store appearance yesterday. The guys signed autographs and posed for photos for over 2 hours at the 4 Sound Music Store. CLICK HERE to view a TV clip on Tommy & Eric's Stockholm in-store appearance.

From: KISSMan
Posted: May 30, 2008

This is a picture of Ace, my son and I at the House Of Blues in Atlantic City, NJ.

It was my son's 16th birthday.

Rock On Ace!

From: Clay McClain
Posted: May 30, 2008

Just wanted to share a photo with you guys!

Caught up with Space Ace in Nashville, Tennessee at the Wildhorse Saloon.

Great show!

From: Associated Press
Posted: May 30, 2008

The KISS Army fan club has an enthusiastic new recruit: Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice.

Rice was in the Swedish capital Thursday for an international conference on Iraq. KISS had a sold-out concert to play Friday.

"I was thrilled," Rice said of her late-night encounter with KISS frontman GENE SIMMONS and bandmates PAUL STANLEY, ERIC SINGER and TOMMY THAYER in the executive lounge of the Sheraton Hotel where they signed autographs and handed out backstage passes and T-shirts to her staff.
[more]

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 28, 2008

Here are the latest two magazine covers featuring KISS. Pictured are the Heidelberg-edition of "Frizz" magazine in Germany and the May issue of "Carnet Verona" from Italy.

Thanks to KISS News for the images.

From: Terry Deaton
Posted: May 29, 2008

I want to share a photo with you guys! I met Ace in Greenville South Carolina at the Handlebar.

Ace was very nice and laid back. He knocked our socks off during the show!

Ace is such a legend.....I've met Ace many times over the years since 1987. This and the first time i shook his hand was the best!!!!!!

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 27, 2008

Here's a fan filmed clip of "DEUCE" and "STRUTTER" from last night's KISS show, their first ever show in St. Petersburg, Russia!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4b-S45ijirY

From: The Rachel Ray Show
Posted: May 27, 2008

Gene is going to be on Rachel Ray tomorrow along with a KISS fanatic that gets a room makeover. It is a repeat of the episode that aired earlier in the year. Also at the following site there's behind the scenes footage.

http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/show/segments/view/backstage-gene-simmons/

From: Kulick.net
by BRUCE KULICK
Posted: May 27, 2008

Hello everyone! I hope you all had a great Memorial Weekend with friends and family. I have been busy as usual, so let me get you all up to speed with my recent adventures.

A few weeks ago John Corabi (Motley Crue, Ratt, UNION, The Scream) and I were off to Mexico City for a big event that was a large music Expo, with vendors and sponsors and artists from around the world all getting together to share everything we all love about music. It was called Expo Rock and, although some of the bands were very varied, John and I represented for sure the rock side of the event... although we were asked to perform with our acoustic guitars!

Read Bruce's entire blog at www.kulick.net

From: GeneSimmons.com
by GENE SIMMONS
Posted: May 27, 2008

Here are a couple of shots from the forthcoming Leslie Greif/Adam Reed produced BATTLEGROUND EARTH, which pits rappers against rockers (!!!) in a "Green" challenge. You'll see what I mean when on AUGUST 3rd, when the show debuts on PLANET GREEN (new broadcaster -- check your TV Guide).

Our GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS crew finish filming a Whistler, Canada extreme snow board themed episode -- and the next day, I found myself on the first flight to San Francisco, where (in the middle of the night) Luda and Tommy and the Battleground Earth crew were filming in a "Green Graveyard" -- no headstones...in fact, if you didn't know it was a cemetery, you'd think you were in a forest setting.
[more]

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 27, 2008

Here's a photo of Gene signing autographs for Russian fans outside the band's Moscow Hotel yesterday.

From: Rockpages.gr
Posted: May 27, 2008

We continue our year-long KISS special article with the 11th interview with a KISS-related figure.
This week we publish an interview with Mark Linet, the engineer of PETER CRISS’ solo album in 1978! Here’s an excerpt:

Rockpages.gr: What do you remember mostly from PETER CRISS as a person and from the whole recording experience with him?

Mark Linet: Nice guy as I recall. I think the guy who wrote the song "Beth" (Stan Penridge) visited one day. The other thing I remember is that it was that we had fans hanging around outside the studio gate wanting to see Peter. This was very unusual since the same studio had everyone from Van Halen to Neil Diamond recording there and we'd never had fans hanging around before that I can recall.

You can read the whole interview at: http://www.rockpages.gr/kissspecial2008/11-MarkLinet-en.htm

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 25, 2008

Here's a fan filmed clip of "Rock 'N' Roll All Nite" from KISS' first ever show in Moscow, Russia!!

Click here to watch the video.

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 24, 2008

The KISS ARMY ticket presale for KISS' August 31st Konocti Harbor show is now over.

Tickets for the general public go on sale tomorrow (May 25) at 9 AM (PST). To order tickets by phone, call 1- 800-660-LAKE or order online at www.Tickets.com

Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa
8727 Soda Bay Road
Kelseyville, California 95451

For more information on the Resort, visit their website at http://www.konoctiharbor.com/.

KISS Alive 35 Poster
From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: May 23, 2008

One of the latest images of KISS as they pose for their 2008 Alive 35 Anniversary tour! Rolled and sealed in plastic. 24" x 36".

8.95 at KISSmuseum.com

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 23, 2008

Classic Rock Magazine is celebrating KISS' 35th Anniversary Tour with 5 different limited edition covers of their July issue!

Four separate individual covers featuring GENE SIMMONS, PAUL STANLEY, TOMMY THAYER and ERIC SINGER are exclusively available in the US market. The KISS group photo cover (pictured in the middle) is available throughout the rest of the world.

From: Chris Stern

Posted: May 22, 2008

Here a photo of me at the Meet & Greet in Oberhausen, which was an awesome experience for me! I'm a KISS-fan for 30 years and this was the first time I got to meet them in make-up.

It was one of the best times in my life, and I wil never forget it.

All I could say was HELL YEAH!!

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 21, 2008

Here's the cover of the new Italian issue of Rolling Stone Magazine featuring KISS!

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 21, 2008

WORLDWIDE SOLD-OUT 35TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR TO HEADLINE STURGIS ROCK’N THE RALLY LINEUP AT 68th ANNUAL STURGIS BIKE WEEK!

In what is destined to become "the night that rocked Sturgis," legendary superstars KISS will perform at Glencoe Nation’s Rock’n the Rally on August 4th. Recognized as one of the biggest and best bike rallies in the world, Sturgis Bike Week celebrates its 68th year this August 4-10, 2008. With capacity of 110,000, Glencoe Amphitheater is the largest outdoor music venue in the nation.

Currently in the midst of a sold-out European arena and stadium tour, KISS will make a stateside detour to thrill Sturgis with the one-of-a-kind stage show for which they’re known. Along with the screaming guitars, lights and pyrotechnics that have made KISS "The Greatest Rock n Roll Show On Earth," the band will play songs from their vast repertoire of classic hits. Having sold 85 million records worldwide, KISS has become the soundtrack of a generation. In honor of their 35th anniversary, the band plans to play their KISS ALIVE album in its entirety as well as a few surprises and rarely played live KISS classic gems.

Ticket on sale info will be announced shortly.

From: BrokenFrontier.com
by Dave Baxter
Posted: May 20, 2008

My favorite sci-fi comic of the past year (and certainly the best of the GENE SIMMONS’ line of books) comes to a close, with a confrontation between Zipper and the militant alien-hating religious-like sect, The Cosmic Defense Ministry. Plus a big cliffhanger set-up for series two.

Tom Waltz had a lot of subplots and characters to bring together and deal with in something resembling a satisfactory fashion, and he had only a regular-sized 22-page issue to do it, and…he does it. Issue #5 was the big action finale, but this final chapter to Series One is more the epilogue, dealing with the characters and maneuvering them into a place where a break between stories seems fitting. There’s a high amount of tension as Waltz at long last reveals what his intention is with the Cosmic Defense Ministry (they hadn’t actually done anything in the series to date), but this is more-or-less the revelation about what "Series 2" will be all about. So the issue serves as both epilogue and prelude and yet it also feels like a conclusion. It’s a tough balancing act but Waltz bloody well does it.

Artists Casey Maloney had his work cut out for him this issue as well, with talking heads and lots of relatively banal settings and situations that all somehow have to come across as high-tension and thrilling. Also he had to cram in a single action sequence in half a page, nine panels in the space most artists fit a single one, but every page looks gorgeous, and the story flows with a natural visual panache. It’s a closing that’s fitting to how good this book has consistently been. This is a character, story, and execution that will make one of the best graphic novels you’re likely to read, so make sure you check this out when the collection inevitably hits.

From: New York Post
by Cindy Adams
Posted: May 20, 2008

HOOKERS and even those who are just the bookers of lookers, beware. Rock star GENE SIMMONS, of KISS and of mattresses far and wide, is on your tail - plus any other part of you he can get on. A semi-pro swordsman, Gene's written "Ladies of the Night: A Historical and Personal Perspective on the Oldest Profession in the World."

The man claims 4,800 sexual encounters. Not to be picky but, if so, where'd he find time left to make a list? Anyway, with his legendary insight and whatever other bodily parts assisted in the research, he gives us his thinking on Doing It. He rocks from the first cavewoman to bad girls of the Bible, brothels of Europe, geishas of Japan, courtesans of the Victorian Era, two-buck streetwalkers of Eighth Avenue, saloon ladies of the Wild West, slick chicks of Vegas to today's modern madams and high-end (and high-front) call girls.

Page One: "At the dawn of existence 4 million years ago, that first human female grunted to her male counterpart: 'I'll stay in this nice warm cave. You go out and risk your hairy behind to bring back that delicious Mastodon meat. And I'll trade some of mine for yours.' After that momentous event, nothing would ever be the same."
[more]

From: PaulStanley.com
Posted: May 20, 2008

Wentworth Gallery, one of the nation's leading fine art retailers is pleased to present two art exhibitions by artist, rock icon and legendary KISS frontman, PAUL STANLEY. He will make two special appearances at the Wentworth Gallery in King of Prussia, PA

Both appearances are open to the public and free of charge

Friday - July 25, 2008 - -7-9 PM
Saturday - July 26, 2008 -- 5-8 PM

Wentworth Gallery - The Court at King of Prussia
690 West Dekalb Pike - King of Prussia, PA

For details on the VIP Reception with Paul on Saturday - July 26, 2008 4-5 PM or to RSVP call - 610-337-8988 or 800-732-6140

From: KISS Asylum
by Dan Russo
Posted: May 20, 2008

Sunday May 18th ACE FREHLEY played at Jannus Landing and totally rocked the packed house Ace and KISS fans everywhere it was awesome! Ace was very plesant and cheerful and played his heart out everyone was stoked!

Security was very strict on video and picture taking but I did get a couple off.

Ace's guitar shot a huge flame and guitar was on fire,wasn't sure if that was normal but a stage hand did come out with a fire extinguisher and put it out without Ace missing a lick. ROCK 'N' ROLL!!

From: Split Screen Entertainment
Posted: May 20, 2008

Founding Trixter guitarist Steve Brown has been added to the roster of the upcoming tribute album "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To VINNIE VINCENT." In an oddly appropriate twist of phrase, the man known for the #1 Dial MTV hit "One In A Million" will tackle the underground KISS favorite "A Million To One." Steve's contribution will be an elaborate acoustic rendition of the song, putting a fresh new spin on the 25-year-old classic. A 30-second sample of the song is now available at the SplitScreen Entertainment website. Steve Brown currently fronts the modern rock act Stereo Fallout and is expected to reunite with his Trixter bandmates for select live dates in 2008, including the massive Rocklahoma festival in July.

Though VINNIE VINCENT himself has not released any new material in over a decade, "KISS MY ANKH" will pay tribute to the undeniable musical legacy of the former KISS guitarist. Vinnie's compositions are widely regarded as a highlight of the KISS catalog and remain a staple of the live KISS set list. Included on the tribute will be selections from the three KISS albums to which Vinnie contributed, as well as the two albums he released with the VINNIE VINCENT Invasion. Additional artists and track listings will be announced as they are confirmed. Further details can be found at the SplitScreen Entertainment website.

"KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To VINNIE VINCENT" is scheduled for a Summer 2008 release. http://www.SplitScreenEntertainment.com

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 17, 2008

Konocti Harbor Resort and Spa on Beautiful Clear Lake...proudly presents...KISS!!!

X.S. Labor Day Weekend Grand Finale - Sunday, August 31st...Outdoors, Under the Stars... "Takin' it to the Streets" Motorcycle Road Rally and Poker Run around Clear Lake, followed by a full concert by the legendary KISS! Fireworks after the Show!

Tickets on sale to the General Public Sunday, May 25th at 9am. KISS ARMY members will have access to an exclusive ticket presale this Wednesday on KISSONLINE (details Tuesday).
[more]

From: KISS Online
Posted: May 19, 2008

Part One http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid376819422/bctid1544597813

Part Two http://link.brightcove.com/services/link/bcpid376819422/bctid1556071953

From: Sofia Echo
by Elitsa Savova
Posted:

On May 16, the dreams of thousands of Bulgarians came true when, after 35 years of waiting, they saw the one and only KISS.

The US rock band came for their first ever gig in Bulgaria and filled the hearts of their fans with joy. The concert was announced at 7pm, but KISS waited until the sun set down to step on the scene.

"You wanted the best, you got the best. The hottest band in the world. KISS!" the loud-speakers blared and the show began. As promised, the fireworks were exceptionally beautiful, and loud, of course.
[more]

Best of Seasons 1 & 2
From: KISSasylum.com
Posted: May 18, 2008

GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels - the reality TV show that brings you into the personal details of the Simmons family, both mundane and extraordinary, is now available on a "Best of" single-disc DVD.

8 of your favorite episodes with the best feature being the bonus "Master Gene Theater", a compilation of outtakes, deleted scenes, bloopers and unseen family home videos - never before seen on TV and certainly worth the price alone. Great quality sound, video, and interactive menus; this collection is a great addition to the DVD library of both the casual as well as die-hard fan.

Happily Unmarried
Next Generation Rock Star
The Demon Lives
Driving Me Crazy
A Bun in the Oven
Nice Day for a Facelift
Face Off
Master Gene Theater
DVD Extras include a bonus episode Under the Knife and Cast Biographies.

$8.99 available through KISSmuseum.com

From: Pirate Radio 103.1
John Clarke
Posted: May 18, 2008

My radio show is doing a 2 hour KISS Army special this Friday night, May 23rd.

We're spinning 120 minutes of great KISS classics and exclusives including the entire Destroyer album performed (Mostly) Alive (using live versions of the '76 album from the various legitimate live KISS album releases.) I even mixed the classic Bob Ezrin sound effects (Detroit Rock City intro and crash, the God of Thunder kids) into the live tracks.

We also have a mash-up of the KISS and Wicked Lester versions of She to contrast the wildly different approaches the guys took with the song.
[more]

From: The Sun News
by Steve Palisin
Posted: May 17, 2008

Art has always captured rock guitarist ACE FREHLEY's eye.

After joining KISS in the mid-1970s at its lead guitarist, with the "Spaceman" makeup and silver sprayed hair, Frehley designed the group's logo.

"There was a point in my life when I wanted to become a graphic artist," he said last month in a phone chat from Westchester County, N.Y. "But the music kind of took over."
[more]

From: Netinfo.bg
Posted: May 17, 2008

Great live photos from yesterday's KISS show in Bulgaria!

[more]

From: Peo
Posted: May 17, 2008

Here is the latest issue of the Swedish Guitar Magazine "FUZZ" featuring Tommy on the cover!!

From: ABC
Posted: May 16, 2008

Missed GENE on Ugly Betty last night? Watch the full episode ("The Kids Are Alright") at
http://dynamic.abc.go.com/
streaming/landing?channel=1896

From: YouTube
Posted: May 16, 2008

Watch KISS putting their hands in cement for the Munich Walk Of Stars at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yeV7JYhdHv8

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 15, 2008

Here ths latest issue of the German Guitar Magazine featuring Tommy on the cover!!

From: Fury Magazine
Posted: May 15, 2008

FURY! attended the KISS concert in the Arena di Verona in Italy and this was probably the most beautiful place they performed in their entire career. Being an ancient roman coloseum the Arena is still in use, mostly for opera performances. For this performance though the place was packed with 20000 crazy KISS fans.

KISS put on a marvelous show and rocked from beginning to end. And the crowd … well they were already excited on the square in front of the arena when the gates weren’t even open yet. They yelled and chanted KISS songs all the time creating a beautiful atmosphere. Inside the arena, right before the show, the crowd started a ‘wave’ like they were at a football game and during the show at some points the crowd was even louder than the band, standing, clapping and cheering the entire concert. You could tell from their faces KISS themselves loved the sight of it too.

The stagefloor was the floor which is normally being used for opera performances. This gave the band the opportunity to use the sides of the stage too, which they did very often. At one point PAUL STANLEY even sat down on the ancient stands of stone, right in front of the audience there. Due to this stagefloor they couldn’t use the elevators they normally use at the end of Rock And Roll All Nite. And there were some more difficulties which kept them from putting on an entire show with all the effects they normally use. Word got out the trucks with the stage attributes were being held at the border thus arriving at around 2 o’ clock. This may have been the cause of them just walking to the stage instead of coming up from the ceiling on a lightning rig. Also the center stage was missing so Paul didn’t fly during Love Gun. But this didn’t seem to bother the crowd at all. And it shouldn’t. This performance was memorable in many ways!

Click here to see more beautiful shots of KISS from Germany.

From: Blabbermouth.net
Posted: May 15, 2008

P3tv on NRK, Norwegain Broadcasting Corporation, has posted a three-minute interview with KISS conducted on May 8 in Oberhausen, Germany — one day before the opening show of the band's European tour, which kicked off in the same city.

http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid376819422?bctid=1544597813

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 14, 2008

KISS performed at the Verona Arena (Arena di Verona), a Roman amphitheatre in Verona, Italy, which was built about 2000 years ago! Seeing the band in this open air venue was an incredible experience...And if the setting wasn't enough, the audience in Verona was easily one of the best ever at a KISS concert. From the opening of "Deuce" through the end of "Detroit Rock City", the audience stood singing and cheering through the entire show. The crowd was so loud at times, that Paul acknowledge them several times with an "I love it".

This was truly an electrifying KISS show!

Other notes about the Verona Show:
[more]

From: John P.
Posted: May 14, 2008

I traveled from the Detroit area to attend the KISS Expo in New York City earlier this month. It was an awesome show. As others have noted, the bands were very good. Frank Dimino from Angel did an outstanding set and the band Starz was incredible...as usual. I was lucky enough to run into the family of the late ERIC CARR. Eric's parents were visiting a booth which had a large number of Eric items. I was able to get a photo with me and Eric's dad. It was very kind of him to take the time to take this photo. Thanks to Richie Ranno of Starz and everyone who made the weekend AWESOME.

From: Kulick.net
Posted: May 14, 2008

Before BRUCE KULICK became a fixture on the speed dial of legendary rockers like KISS (who proudly called him their lead guitarist for 12 years), Meat Loaf (Kulick was a member of Meat's Bat Out Of Hell touring troupe), or Grand Funk Railroad (with whom he has toured the country for most of the last decade)…Before he became one of the most soughtafter guest musicians in the world…Before he garnered praise from press the world over as a Rock And Roll Fantasy Camp counselor to be both respected and feared…Before all of that, BRUCE KULICK was a fan of great rock music... Cream, Jimi Hendrix, The Beatles, Led Zepplin, Yes, The Who...you name it, Kulick knew it.

"I always tell people, when they ask me how to get better at their instrument, that the best way to do that is find other players in your neighborhood," says Kulick. "To that end, after I'd been playing a while, I found a guy who lived in the next building over from me, in the Jackson Heights area of Queens, New York. His name was Mike Katz, and he was a bass player who loved all of the same bands I did. We started jamming, and, because we already spoke the same language musically, it was just magical. We found a drummer named Guy Bois who rounded out the picture, and we formed a group that we envisioned as a cross between Cream and Yes."

After months of rehearsal in the Bois family basement, the band (which, although called "KKB" today never really had an official name) entered New York's Sudden Rush recording studio in September of 1974 armed with a handful of songs. As with many young upstart bands, things didn't progress from there as the three members had hoped, and eventually Kulick, Katz, and Bois went their separate ways. The reel-to-reel tape of those sessions sat gathering dust, until a garage sale find in 2006 (a TEAC reel-to-reel player in great condition, and a steal at $35.00) lead to its rediscovery...
[more]

From: KISS Asylum
by Joe Penn
Posted: May 14, 2008

This is Joe Penn reporting about the NY/NJ KISS Expo - Sorry for my late post, but I have been extremely busy lately. Of course, everyone knows how great the Expo always is, so I am just reporting about my awesome experience.

This was a special day because I met BRUCE KULICK, again, but with a twist. I walked up to Bruce while he was signing and handed him his yearbook. His eyes lit up as he went running to his girlfriend, showing her his pictures and reminiscing. Bruce went on telling myself and the group (my girlfriend Samantha, and mother Karen) about the yearbook, and even showed us the other pages with his pictures on them. It was so great seeing Bruce react to the yearbook, of course making the day even better, especially seeing the reactions of other KISS Army members.

That's all for now, I thought you guys would love to hear that tid-bit, and see the great pictures we have with Bruce and the yearbook, as well as Myself with Samantha and Bruce, my Mom with Bruce, and Russ
[more]

From: KISSAsylum
by Joe Degraffenreid
Posted: May 13, 2008

The Spaceman last landed in the OKC area in the year 2000, on his last tour with KISS, beofre that his last solo show was in 1994 at a club called Alcatraz, so, it's safe to say many area KISS/Ace fans were rejoicing at the mere news of the Jendell native’s return to the area. A merchandsie table was set up with 2 different shirts (one with an Ace card, one with the Rocket ride-backdrop art ($35 each), as well as a (fake) backstage pass ($20).

After a few local openers, (the last being 36 Inches, who closed with "You Shook Me All Night Long"), the drum riser & back-line of stacks was un-covered. The backdrop wasn't used, as the venue was likely too small for it.

After a brief intro, the band (consisting of Ace, guitarist-Derrek Hawkins, Bassist-Anthony Esposito & drummer Scott Coogan), took the stage & began with "Rip It Out". Frehley’s guitar volume was too low & he motioned someone to turn it up a few times during the song. Dynasty’ classic "Hard Times" came next. Derrek handled the rhythms on the verses letting Ace focus on singing, a line or 2 was missed but he at least didn’t repeat the same verse twice like on some recent youtube clips. By the end of 'Hard Times' the kinks seemed ironed out & during "Parasite" the sound was finally mixed right.
[more]

From: Dream House Magazine
by Renu Singh
Posted: May 13, 2008

They stood outside Leone for hours in downtown Vancouver wearing KISS t-shirts or hardly anything, some in full-on KISS makeup and all of them chanting "Gene, Gene, Gene." They had waited for hours, just to catch a glimpse of "the Demon."

He sat before me without his trademark rock-star makeup, but it didn't matter. He waved to the fans, whose screams magnified as the crowd pressed forward for a better look.

I watched them in fascination then turned to the rock icon and asked, "People really love you, don't they Gene?"
[more]

From: Publishers Weekly
by Jeff Makos
Posted: May 13, 2008

In Ladies of the Night, the KISS member discusses the world's oldest profession.

Your book makes the argument that prostitution gives women access to power that they would otherwise not have. Have you always felt that way?

Surprise! I actually respect women. I've always had that point of view. I look on the issue as one of self-empowerment for women. Women should be the sole judges of how they want to lead their lives. And let's be frank—many ladies have made more money in their line of work than they would have sitting in front of a computer.
[more]

From: Dion
Posted: May 12, 2008

Great tip from the Norwegian KISS Army tour blog. KISS played at the Olympiahalle in Munich recently and the great thing is that the venue has a webcam inside the arena. At this moment you can see the KISS crew build the Alive 35 stage.

After the stage was setup, Paulcrab made a fastmotion video of each picture taken every minute

Check out the High Quality video thanks Ratatouille and Paulcrab at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO260X8eQVM

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 12, 2008

KISS put their hands and autographs in cement last night before the Munich show to be included on the Munich Olympic Walk of Stars!

Famous national and international personalities from sports, music and entertainment have been immortalized or will immortalize themselves with their hand or footprint in concrete and then find their place in the MOWOS in the Olympic Park.

A precondition for being immortalized in the Walk of Stars is that the personalities have been successful in the Olympic stadium, hall, swimming centre or ice sports centre or have done something special for the Olympic Park.
[more]

From: KISSAsylum
Posted: May 12, 2008

The staff at KISS Asylum wishes ERIC SINGER a very happy birthday today.

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 12, 2008

KISS continued their European invasion tonight with a scorching performance at the SOLD OUT Olympiahalle in Munich, Germany. Once again the band performed a 22 song, 2 hour plus set!

SET LIST:

Deuce
Strutter
Got To Choose
Hotter Than Hell
Firehouse
Nothin' To Lose (Eric lead vocals)
C'Mon And Love Me
Parasite
She (Tommy Guitar Solo)
Watchin' You
Rock Bottom
100,000 Years (Eric Drum Solo)
Cold Gin
Let Me Go Rock 'N' Roll
Black Diamond (Eric lead vocals)
Rock And Roll All Nite
[more]

From: Fury Magazine
Posted: May 11, 2008

Everybody must have had an experience sometimes when somebody walks into the room and everybody who’s there feels their personality. That surely was the case when KISS walked in on their only European press conference in Oberhausen last Thursday, just before the start of the European leg of their Alive/35 World Tour.

About 120 people of the press from all over Europe attended the conference, amongst them about 15 TV camera teams.

When asked why it took so long to come over to Europe again and if it was because of the interest from promoters because of the low dollar rate, businessman of KISS GENE SIMMONS started to laugh. PAUL STANLEY was more serious and asked why it always had to be about politics and economics every time they come over. KISS has no political agenda and just wanted to make sure they were welcomed. Stating that the European leg of their fan club, the KISS army, is larger than the armies of all countries in Europe together, they sure are.
[more]

From: Family Circle Magazine
by Patty A. Martinez
Posted: May 11, 2008

You've traded the superstar lifestyle of LA's Viper Room for the Diaper Room. What are some of your day-to-day duties?

At 6 A.M. I was up with Colin. I changed, dressed and fed him, then we played together and watched Baby Einstein DVD's. Mornings are my favorite time of day. And as soon as we're off the phone, I'll pick Evan up from school.

Sounds like you're and involved dad.
[more]

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 10, 2008

WOW! What a way to open their Alive 35 European Tour! KISS just destroyed Oberhausen Arena with a blistering 2 hour and 17 minute set that featured the complete ALIVE album and a six song encore! From the opening of "Deuce" to the ending of "Detroit Rock City", KISS grabbed the audience by the throat and never let go.

The band's performance was a true team effort and everyone was on top of their game! Paul danced, pranced and belted out vocals like it was 1975. Gene was, to put it simply, the DEMON - menacing on both bass and vocals. Eric pounded the drums, sang lead on "Nothin' To Lose" & "Black Diamond" and also sang along with Gene on several other songs. Tommy blazed his way through lead after lead, as well as an awesome solo complete with rocket shooting special effects.

KISS is always powerful and energetic, but tonight they some how turned it up a notch! And to think, this was just the first show...can't wait for Munich!
[more]

From: KISSAsylum.com
by Rich
Posted: May 9, 2008

OK - it's the moment you've all been waiting for....your first glimpse at the KISS bathroom. I know, I know...try to contain yourself. The tile guy just completed the tile work today. Still no toilet, lights, or running water....but my tiles are lookin' good and that's all that matters!!!

As soon as the house is finished, you're all welcome to come over and have a beer, and then properly dispose of it in my KISS bathroom!!! (well...everyone except Brianna...she can have a Pepsi)

KISS Ceramic Tiles available here.
[more]

From: YouTube
Posted: May 9, 2008

Guitar amp company Hughes & Kettner conducted an interview with KISS guitarist TOMMY THAYER earlier this week while the band was in Cologne, Germany rehearsing for its current European tour.

Watch the seven-minute chat at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Pz8lR6t9NE

From: TheReader.com
by Wayne Brekke
Posted: May 9, 2008

Contrary to last year’s rumors, ACE FREHLEY is alive. He didn’t commit suicide via a drug overdose, a rumor that swept the internet last year. In fact, the legendary guitarist who helped make KISS one of the biggest rock bands in history seems to be in better shape now than he recent years.

"I’ve been clean and sober for 19 months now," Frehley said. "It’s nice to wake up in the morning and remember what you did last night."

Recent photos from Frehly’s new tour shows the guitarist trimmed down with a goatee, longer straight hair and black shades. Wielding his signature Starburst Les Paul, Frehley’s appearance is a far cry from the makeup days or the "unmasked" years of the late ’80s and ’90s. Known for his issues with substance abuse, Frehley sports a new band and a new outlook on performing live.
[more]

From: KISSpodcast.com
Posted: May 9, 2008

The KISS Podcast show number 9 was just released.

Dion is back with a new KISS Podcast show. This is the show where we focus on the start of the Alive 35 world tour, which started in Melbourne, Australia on March 16 and continues with a European leg in Oberhausen, Germany on May 9th, 2008.
[more]

From: Rockpages.gr
Posted: May 8, 2008

We continue our year-long KISS special article with the 10th interview with a KISS-related figure.

This week we publish an interview with the last singer of CRISS, Jason Ebs. Here’s an excerpt where Jason talks about the unreleased CRISS songs:

Rockpages.gr: During your presence in Criss, the band moved towards an even more modern (almost grunge) direction with such songs as: "Yeah, Yeah, Yeah", "Take Time", "Burning Desire" and others that unfortunately never saw the light of day, at least officially. Were these songs considered for a second Criss album? Are there many leftover songs?
[more]

From: KISSAsylum
by Matt (photos from various contributors)
Posted: May 8, 2008

I was at the NY KISS EXPO this weekend and it kicked ass!

Hundreds of fans packed the Crowne Plaza Hotel and there was much love for the hottest band in the world.

The day included amazing performances from ANGEL, STARZ, JADED,SHOOT THE MOON, ADRENILIZEand was caped off by the HOTTEST KISS tribute band in the world....KISSTERIA!

Maul Stanley did a fun interview with BRUCE KULICK, whojoined the members of STARZ on stage for a few songs. Other special guests included Ginger from the Wildhearts, Joey Belladonna of Anthrax, model Cathy St. George, and radio personality Eddie Trunk.

There are many photos from the event on myspace.com/kissarmypa
[more]

From: Norway’s NRK
Posted: May 8, 2008

[more]

From: Maul Stanley
Posted: May 8, 2008

On Saturday, May 3rd, the mysterious Maul Stanley made his very first appearance at any KISS event when he descended upon the 22nd annual NY/NJ KISS Expo. While there, the shadowy Sithchild mingled with fans, scared lots of kids and hit on plenty of women. He also rubbed elbows with event celebrities and gave away hundreds of his colorful new promo cards. Perhaps the highlight of Maul Stanley's debut was his much-anticipated onstage interview with former KISS guitarist BRUCE KULICK, which proved to be an audience favorite. Photos of Maul Stanley's adventures at the NY/NJ KISS Expo have been added to his official MySpace profile, where fans can request him as a friend and keep up on his unearthly endeavors.

Maul Stanley is the unlikely new anti-hero who combines the spirit of the Starchild with the essence of the Sith, spiked with a dash of irreverence. Drawing inspiration from both the Star Wars movies and the rock band KISS, the so-called Sithchild mixes the dark side of rock & roll with the dark side of the Force. Maul Stanley has appeared on "Late Night with Conan O'Brien" and in the Triumph the Insult Comic Dog DVD. He can also be seen in the VH1 special "When Star Wars Ruled the World." In honor of the 30th anniversary of the Star Wars saga, Maul Stanley issued a series of interviews with members of Twisted Sister, Poison, Cinderella and Quiet Riot regarding their own unique Star Wars experiences. Maul Stanley is about to descend upon the KISS Army in a big way, heralded by the ominous whisper...

You've got Maul! http://www.myspace.com/MaulStanley

From: GeneSimmons.com
Posted: May 7, 2008

GENE SIMMONS is set for a return episode on ABC's "Ugly Betty". The Episode will air on Thursday, May 15th at 8pm ET.

About: Ugly Betty: "The Kids Are Alright"
Betty, still missing Henry, fights her attraction to Gio, but later finds herself stuck with him when both volunteer to chaperone Justin's middle school dance. Meanwhile, Hilda tries to get Coach Diaz (guest star Eddie Cibrian) to notice her; Amanda agrees to do a reality show with her dad, KISS rock legend GENE SIMMONS; and Daniel feels the heat when Wilhelmina makes her triumphant return to Mode amid a media frenzy. Guest starring are GENE SIMMONS as himself, Eddie Cibrian as Coach Diaz, Larry King as himself, Alec Mapa as Suzuki St. Pierre and Jasmine Anthony as Antonella.

From: Radio Reality Check
Posted: May 7, 2008

Another "KISS THIS" Show on Radio Reality Check show is scheduled for Thursday, May 8th at 8PM (PT) 11PM (ET)! 2 HOURS OF NOTHING BUT KISS! Fans can chat live with other KISS fans around the world! Don't forget to send in your KISS requests and look out for giveaways throughout the show!

Listen and Chat live at: www.radiorealitycheck.com or CALL US LIVE ON THE AIR WITH YOUR KISS REQUEST! DURING THE SHOW ONLY: 707-895-2448 OR 800-499-7117

Toddler's Sweatshirt
From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: May 6, 2008

An adorable, mini hooded sweatshirt for your little KISS fan. Front zipper. 100% cotton.

$29.95 at KISSmuseum.com

From: 944 Magazine
Posted: May 6, 2008

Even at home, the KISS frontman rocks a P.A. system. "Honey," PAUL STANLEY says into an intercom, his voice echoing from speakers throughout his Spanish mansion.

"We're going out to the studio."

Stanley's attractive wife of two and a half years appears and agrees to keep an eye out for the tardy photographer. He gives her a goodbye peck and then, as he leads the way to his painting studio, he says to me out of the corner of his mouth, "Not a model. Not an actress. An attorney."
[more]

From: Talking Metal
Posted: May 6, 2008

The latest episode of "Talking Metal" contains an interview John Ostronomy conducted with WHITESNAKE guitarist Doug Aldrich. Topics include the band's new album, "Good to Be Bad", David Coverdale, LION, Kal Swan, Tiffany, GENE SIMMONS, and Aldrich's 1982 audition with KISS. The podcast also contains an interview Mark Strigl and Ostronomy conducted with Ron Scalzo of RETURN TO EARTH.

Photos as well as the 60-minute podcast can be downloaded at http://www.striglsmusicnews.com/podcasts/talkingmetal/index.htm.
iTunes users can also subscribe to "Talking Metal" for free at http://www.apple.com/itunes.

From: The Tribune
by Jim Rydbom
Posted: May 6, 2008

Saying that Jason Roth is just your everyday KISS fan might be like saying Michael Jordan was just an average basketball player.

For Roth, 29, of Windsor, the rock 'n' roll band has became an obsession -- he's turned his passion for music into a very profitable collection.

It all began when he walked into his older brother's room and saw the poster of the band KISS on his wall when he was just 10 years old.
[more]

From: GeneSimmons.com
Posted: May 5, 2008

We just got our sweaty hands around the TELLY AWARD, which was awarded to our GENE SIMMONS FAMILY JEWELS tv show.

"GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels" was honored by the 29th annual Telly Awards with a bronze award. Founded in 1978, The Telly is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV programs, as well as the finest video and film productions.

"GENE SIMMONS Family Jewels" was chosen from more than 14,000 entries from around the world.

From: KNBC
Posted: May 4, 2008

KNBC's Cary Berglund reports on the artwork of Rock and Roll legend PAUL STANLEY.

http://video.knbc.com/player/?id=247728

From: KISSOnline
Posted: May 3, 2008

KISS just wrapped up an exciting week of rehearsals for their ALIVE / 35 European Tour.

It begins Friday May 9th in Oberhausen, Germany!

The band is in great spirits and really looking forward to returning to Europe for the first time in over 9 years!
[more]

Matching Pin And Keychain Sets
From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: May 2, 2008

Just released today! Five sets of matching KISS Keychains and Lapel pins. All metal construction finished off with chrome and colored enamel details.

$7.95 each at KISSmuseum.com

New York KISS Expo Is Tomorrow
From: KISSasylum.com
Posted: May 2, 2008

Tomorrow, Saturday May 3rd is the 22nd New York KISS Expo. If you're a KISS fan in the North Eastern United States then there is no reason you should not be there! Enjoy the festivities, meet BRUCE KULICK, browse the endless tables of KISS merchandise and enjoy one or more of the many bands playing that day. Most of all, just come to meet and hang out with fellow KISS fans from around the world!

KISS Expo Info and directions here

What's New In KISS Collecting
KISS Reunion Group Poster
From: KISSmuseum.com
Posted: May 1, 2008

New official poster released today! Photo of original band from 1996. 22" x 34" poster rolled and sealed in plastic.

8.95 at KISSmuseum.com

First KISS Show In Sofia
From: The Sofia Echo
Posted: May 1, 2008

Only a few days before Kylie Minogue’s show and just in time to augur the hot emotional musical summer to follow, US rock band KISS will shake Sofia’s Akademik Stadium down to its foundations on May 16.

It’s true that KISS has already been around for 35 years already, but this is the first opportunity for Bulgarian fans to see them live. The masks are back on for the band’s ALIVE 35 Tour, which passes through 17 countries, some of the biggest music festivals and… Sofia.

Unlike other great bands, which came along over the past several years and have obviously capitulated to the merciless passage of time, KISS have no intention of ever disappointing their fans. If you imagined that their concert will be just a little bit of fuss in a calm May evening, you're mistaken! KISS plan anything but a calm gig. How do we know? Well, the simple fact that they arrive with tons of equipment speaks for itself. The main stage will be 18m wide, but two additional wings will extend it to nearly 25m. The lighting equipment alone weighs 12 tons and the show includes unique pyrotechnics. The sound will be provided by six-ton-heavy equipment.
[more]

KISS' Spaceman Is Now Grounded In Solo Life
From: Star Tribune
by Chris Riemenschneider
Posted: May 1, 2008

He has the most uncool laugh you'll ever hear. It's a bit like a high-pitched hyena cackle, but with a New Yorker's nasal accent mixed in. Every KISS fan shuddered the first time they heard it.

That laugh, though, is one of the reasons ACE FREHLEY always was the coolest member of KISS. The band's original guitarist never seemed to take the band as seriously as his pompous, mouthy bandmates. Of course, Frehley was often too wasted to take much of anything seriously during KISS' heyday, but as he said in a phone interview last week, "For me, rock 'n' roll should always be fun."

Clean and sober for 19 months now, Frehley quit KISS once again in 2001 after a five-year "reunion/farewell" outing and said he's having a new kind of fun on his first solo tour in 13 years, which brings him to First Avenue on Thursday. He's also releasing a solo album later this year.
[more]

Looking for more KISS News? Here's a link to last month's News Archive

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Ace Frehley Scrapbook

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