Time For KISS To Be A Band Again!
By: Robert G. Emigh Jr.

I've been a die-hard fan of this band since 1974 when they appeared on "The Mike Douglas Show." I remember seing them and thinking this was a "dangerous" band. A band that really shocked and was to be taken serious. Over the years we all know the history of KISS and the great rise to power and sudden fall. After a make-up less '80's we finally got our dream-come-true with the overwhelming success of the Reunion Tour. It seemed like it was back to kicking ass again for the "Hottest Band In The Land."

But that hope has been somewhat dashed by the over-the-top merchandising that came with a resurgence in popularity. It seemed that there were new KISS collectables coming out every week! I had no problem with that... for a while. I don't mind there being collectables. Face it, how many bands fans get to have items based on their favorite groups or performers? Not many. But, and this is the key, I must say that we need no more! Not for a while anyway. I was there to see the "Super-KISS" self-destruct in 1979-80 by losing the most important thing any band can lose. No, not the disrespect of critics and the rock press... but the respect they worked so hard to get from THEIR FANS! There REAL fans. Of which I am one! I'm still proud of KISS and all the great memories they've given me over the past 25 years. But, did KISS not learn a lesson from the first fiasco?

Look, we finally got Peter & Ace back (and I LOVE those guys!), and KISS can and SHOULD be ALL FOUR members as ONE band! As a very good friend of mine always said (See Jimmy, I didn't forget you way out there in CA!), and I quote: "KISS IS.... Gene Simmons, Ace Frehley, Paul Stanley and Peter Criss!" For KISS to continue as a valid rock n' roll machine (notice I said 'rock n' roll machine'... NOT 'merchandising machine!') they must be a BAND. Not Gene & Paul and Ace & Peter! The failure of "Psycho Circus" to be a GREAT KISS album is directly due to lack of influence and participation from the Catman and Spaceace. They were missed on that album and if there is indeed another album they need to lock themselves away, just the four of them, and crank out an album that will not only do them proud but us loyal fans as well.

Gene always says "our fans deserve the best." Well, we WANT the best... so do us all a favor and give us a killer album by "KISS." It's simply time for KISS to be what they always did best: be a rock n' roll band! The fans want not another "Rock And Roll Over," but an album that has the same raw energy and excitement that that classic platter had. To me, that one along with "KISS," "Dressed To Kill" and "Love Gun" SOUNDED like a band. You can feel the presence of the 4-who-are-one in the grooves. Raw, pure, simple rock n' roll that was infectious to the ears, heart and soul. "Psycho Circus" was not a bad album, but way over-produced and way too slick. Maybe not as bad as "Crazy Nights," but closer to that than any of the classic early KISS sound that the band perfected and the fans loved!

I know KISS is 25 years into their rock circus, but that hunger can be heard in those albums that I hope to hear again. The money and fame have been made, but that's no reason NOT to just plug in, crank up the amps and let it rip! With all four members contributing, the final product can only benefit. Peter and Ace have brought a lot back to the band (thanks guys!), so it's time to let them do what they do best... help make KISS the greatest band in the world!

PS: On the 2000 Tour, mix it up and pull out some songs like: "Take Me," "Flaming Youth," "Room Service" and "Strange Ways." I love the classic songs we all know by heart, but there's no true fan out there that wouldn't want a NEW set-list. As far as the '80's songs are concerned, how great would it be to hear "I Love It Loud," "Lick It Up," or even "Unholy." And let Ace be Ace and tear into "Torpedo Girl," "Rock Soldiers," or "Rip It Out." We've heard the same list twice, now let's shake it up and give the fans a show and a set-list that will be remembered for many years to come!

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