SET LIST SOUND OFF
By: Ron Albanese & Byron Fogle

Hello one and all. Welcome to what you've been waiting for - the results of the Set List Sound Off. Now before we go on here I'd like to explain how this is going to be done. I've picked five of the most creative submissions. How they were judged was: ideas for the band (i.e. Gene spiting blood during "Unholy" etc.), costumes or stage set up ideas, and freshness of ideas and not just the same rehashed ones. As for the songs mentioned in all the submissions, I've decided to break them up into separate categories, as follows:

1. MOST OBSCURE MENTIONS (all Eras of KISS)
2. MOST OBSCURE MENTIONS (W/MANY MENTIONS)
3. '80s & '90s MENTIONS
4. STANDARD SONGS TO KEEP IN THE SET
5. OLD CLASSICS TO ADD (Songs actually played live by the band at some point).

I will also be throwing my 2 cents in to the 5 submissions I've chosen as "runners-up" & the one that put in the most work and creativity to compile. Click here to read the 5 set list runner-ups and click here for the winner of the most creative submission.

Also, just to bring some extra input, I have enlisted the help of fellow KISS ASYLUM writer Ron Albanese of the KISS Though Vault. For all you people who've read his column you know Ron is not afraid to speak his mind. I think this combination and the above ground "rules" will make this a very interesting and entertaining read for all.

OK, now on our way. Here's the major thing I've noticed, which obviously is why this Sound Off was created. For the most part everyone is tired of the same songs that have been shoved down our throats ad naseum by the band. These standards like "Calling Dr. Love," "Beth," "Shock Me," "Rock & Roll All Night," "Firehouse," "Cold Gin," & "Love Gun" were the most mentioned by a good majority of you that you wanted to have cut from the set list.

I personally couldn't agree more, but we all have to remember that as tired as most of us are of them there is a section of fans who still want those and don't want the band to change them. Instead of dropping those, they've dropped some of the newer ones we heard added from the Reunion tour like "King of the Nighttime World," "Do You Love Me?," and "Let Me Go, Rock and Roll." So as you can see, KISS will never be able to please everyone fully. But in all honesty we all pretty much know whatever they play will be fine once we're at the show watching the band. It's usually after we leave the arena or stadiums that we bitch: "Aw man, I can't believe they didn't do _____ (insert song here)." or "Aw man, I wish they would've brought back______ ."

Other examples... the "Firehouse" hat, serpent statue, candelabra, Gene flying, Ace's rockets, etc. That type of complaining is usually the nature of most KISS fans, dare I say all of us, and that would go for fans of other bands as well. I know I walked out of an Ozzy show or Van Halen show going I can't believe they didn't play_____ (insert again)," so I'm definitely guilty of that stereotype.

So here are the breakdowns of each song so not to confuse anyone. Ron will have his name, as will I, next to each of our comments. Let's go now where no one has gone before, into the heads of all the KISS ASYLUM readers and get the set list thoughts. This took a very long time to compile and write so I hope you all enjoy the efforts here.

Most importantly I wish to thank all the readers of Asylum for taking the time out in sending in their submissions. They all had great points to all of them.

MOST OBSCURE MENTIONS (all eras of KISS)

"Rock Soldiers"
Byron Fogle: Could be cool seeing this one in full war paint.
Ron Albanese: First (sound) off, I just want everyone to know that I am alive and the Thought Vault will continue in 2000, in a reworked format. In perhaps a weird fit of pre-New Year's Eve anxiety, my hard drive on my Power Mac froze and crashed -- twice. No kidding, my reliable 9500/120 went Kamikaze and rendered countless Thought Vault notes dead -- and tons of other stuff. Okay, as for "Rock Soldiers," isn't this one of the better '80s Ace songs? Yes, and stylistically, thematically and sonically it could fit into a KISS 2000 set list. But why? This is the stuff of fantasy.

"Man of 1,000 Faces"
Byron: Gene always wanted to play this one, as well as Fractured Mirror, which I think would be great if the original band ever did another unplugged record.
Ron: Okay, I really need to just suspend any Earth-ground thought approach and have fun. Still, this is one of those songs that just couldn't be performed live without it being retooled extensively. And why do that? I don't think Ace could transpose the orchestration to a part for his Les Paul. Heck, he couldn't even nail Paul's solo in Anthony Perkins Circus half the time last tour.

"Rock Me Baby"
Byron: I'd prefer "That's the Kinda Sugar Papa Likes."
Ron: While we're high on the fantasy fumes and broaching (albeit indirectly) the topic of Peter's solo album, I'd love to hear "...Sugar..." done in concert, but really "I'm Gonna Love You." That's the one to do... but not by KISS. Just from a "burying the hatchet" reunion of Peter and Stan Penridge, with Vini Poncia thrown in for good measure.

"Rock & Roll Hell"
Byron: Cool choice from Creatures, though we all know I love it Loud, I Still Love You or War Machine are the obvious choices from this CD.
Ron: This was done live just once, at the Illinois stop on the Creatures tour. It plodded and went over like motorcycles at a KISS concert. I love this song. Gene sounds like he's 93. But about these "Wise old man Gene tells a story songs," wouldn't they work better on a VH1 Storytellers? Think about it: He could play "Rock and Rock Hell" on his Punisher (Hey! Wasn't this song about Ace? I read that in an '80s fanzine), then "Legends Never Die" (the Creatures outtake and Wendy O. track) and finally "Childhood's End." Those three would work well.

"I Can't Stop the Rain"
Byron: Again another great one for the Unplugged idea above.
Ron: See "Rock Me Baby."

"Getaway"
Byron: Never done live I'd love to see this one done. More Catman vocals would be a nice touch to the set, too.
Ron: It don't compel me, but Kurrent KISS could at least probably start and finish this one at the same time. This song has one of those early "golly gee" bass lines from Gene that always brightened up some otherwise darker material. Uh, by "golly gee" I mean those "happy" bass lines along the... lines (sorry) of the anal sex anthem (?) "Nothin' to Lose."

"Love 'Em and Leave 'Em"
Byron: Great vocals, but would have to be slowed down for Peter's sake.
Ron: 'Em, today's KISS could nail this, but why? I don't think this would make for a great live number. They could play "Almost Human" instead. I don't know why I thought of that....

"Larger than Life" Byron: Should've been done already. A great Gene libido song to emphasize the Gene character.
Ron: This is a great idea that we've all had since this song was first released. Man, side four of Alive II is great. KISS now could do this, and do it well; I think the airing of "She" at Dodger Stadium proved that.

"Bad Reputation"
Byron: You know I thought I was the only person who thought this was a cool song. Obviously Mike Stone from Peter's band can't come and sing his part, but Paul however could really kick this one up a notch. Although I think The Cat from the 5 song EP would be more appropriate given the make-up being on Peter at this time, even thought The Cat is a cheesy song & also would need to remove the G&P reference if done.
Ron (Sarcasm alert): The problem with "Bad Reputation" is that is so well written, played and produced that every other song in the KISS catalog pales in comparison. So, I'm afraid it might just have to be skipped over.

"In Your Face" (Ace PC Japan bonus track)
Byron: Cheesy riff & lyrics by Gene, but I'll admit is a good rocker. Gene should leave Ace's songs to Ace and stop trying to write for him since he's having to much of a hard time writing for his own character.
Ron: This patronizing (Gene to Ace) "track" has only entered my ears twice -- once by mistake. By the time I heard it, I needed this to help heal my (Motor) Cycle Circus wounds, and instead it was like falling into a salt mine. The main riff is hilariously reminiscent of Ratt's okay "Slip of the Lip," and wasn't there a mention of sniffing glue? As sub-par as KISS and related songs have sometimes been, I always hasten to employ the word "stupid" as a description. Sadly, this song pushes me over the edge. I mean c'mon, Byron calls it a "good rocker" for crying (shouting) out loud.

"My Way" (from Crazy Nights not Frank Sinatra)
Byron: A very lost gem, but the keyboards are too 80's. Maybe if this was streamlined and made a little harder by Ace adding his KISS stamp to it, it might be do able.
Ron: Sadly, this affirmation of positive spirit doesn't win my "best use of the word "stone" in a KISS song contest". That honor has to go to Gene/Vinnie Vincent (Warrior), for the cry "you're gonna turn to stone" in "Not for the Innocent." However, Paul may be the most fond of stone, rocks and quarries overall, for he did also co-write "Sword and Stone." In addition, he actually refers to "a jagged edge" in "My Way." Couple this instance with "King of the Mountain," and you realize that the old "He/She" may like climbing. Not to be outdone, Gene used "stone" in the decent "Betrayed," but it was to describe temperature. And before you mail bomb me, in "Naked City" the term of the moment was used to describe Gene's, Bob Kulick's and Pepe Castro's victims after being rendered into inanimate forms. So, I tend go with Paul and his more traditional, and less harsh, use of "stone."

"Magic Touch"
Byron: Great song that I wished they would've done years ago.
Ron: What the heck does Paul say in that bridge, anyway? His falsetto is awesome regardless. "Magic Touch" live couldn't happen today for the same reason it couldn't in the past: it's too complex for the KISS live format. There's a tension to the main riff that can't be just plowed through, and in terms of grace and dynamics, KISS are sometimes the best snow removers in the business.

"See You In Your Dreams" (Gene's Solo LP version)
Byron: Much better version I'll agree than the RARO version, though I do like Paul's "see you" part at the end of the RARO version.
Ron: Why didn't Gene name his solo album remake "See You in Your Dreams '78?" That would have been cool. I view this one as a sequel to the RARO version, for it reveals what was stated in Gene's letter: "I love you, you know I do, take me home tonight..." I was glad to finally know what Gene's letter said. Then again, maybe the "letter" referred to on RARO just said the song's chorus. In any event this song gets my "stamp" of approval.

"Sweet Pain"
Byron: Too complex of a drum pattern for Peter now-a-day, but could've been done in their prime years in 76-77.
Ron: Why do all KISS fans act like this is "Topsy" or something? Yes, Peter's drum part is excellent, but I don't think it's alone in that category. For example, "Parasite" is another instance of the Cat clawing his way through sticky arrangement situations. So let's champion that song for the Cat's contribution, and try to forget that Eric Singer included a clip of Revenge-era KISS performing this Ace notable on his "instructional" video.

"Torpedo Girl"
Byron: Another one that would have to be simplified for the Cat Man and I can't see Gene in full demon character playing that complicated of a bass line while trying to stick his tongue out and pick up chicks in the front row.
Ron: Apart from the entire recorded works of Britny Fox, this song has some of the dopiest lyrics ever. It seems that Ace was so pressed to make sense that he simply mentioned anything that happens near the water, or at least that gets wet (feet, etc.). Let's examine this: "I thought I'd go out and take a swim today. It was real hot, and I just had to get away. They spotted an unknown sub down in the bay, but I don't care, åcause I'll go swimming anyway." First of all: Ace? Sunlight? He's the Joey Ramone of KISS. Shouldn't Paul be singing about being around bays? Also, "C'mon, get your feet wet." is very Village People. There's at least six Aces shouting out a line that is probably said in the pool area of every YMCA, everyday. Submarines rumbling? Subs are quiet. They are supposed to surprise the shit out of the enemy. Anyway, don't you feel a rumble, and not hear it? Oh, forget all that. I have always been a huge fan of this song. There's so much to write about it, and the rest of Unmasked. In fact, many Thought Vault readers have requested an Unmasked Vault. I should do one. Ken Gullic of the band Bootcamp (buy their CD) swears that the big "U" is the greatest pop rock album of all time. He might be right. Stay tuned....

"Tomorrow"
Byron: Great rocker falls under the should've been done category.
Ron: Doesn't the lead guitar work (presumably done by Paul, who was in the midst of his Studio 54 phase) sound like the battle/pleasure scream (well, he only had one) of the original Godzilla? I thought so in 1980, and still do. This great, if somewhat mushy song holds the strange significance of being the second US single from Unmasked. Until recently, I was convinced that it was never officially released, until I held it. Can you say "rare?"

"Any Way You Want It"
Byron: Same as above, though I'd rather see Peter singing this solo. With his raspy voice it would have more soul than the stale Alive II version.
Ron: Okay, Byron has never bothered to check out the Dave Clark Five version, and if he did, he didn't pay attention. Maybe he was more concerned with his Twister Sister albums. For the record (ha ha), KISS pretty much nailed the style of the DC5 vocals. Where they went astray (and not with poor results) was the drum beat. Again, not the vocals. Soul? DC5 were about as white as you could get, besides Paul Revere and the Raiders. KISS could do a great job on this, and it would be a crowd pleaser, I'm sure. I could just picture the Psycho Service Lite Brite logo flashing in time. Byron and I have an occasional cover KISS (no makeup) cover band called Strange Ways. When we were more active, Byron would push to perform overplayed material like "Parasite" while I would try to squeeze this one into the set list. We did it once, and it went over well -- it certainly helped that I told everyone to clap their hands off after it was over!

"Fits Like a Glove"
Byron: Not a good one for Peter... This makes you see how much more proficient Eric Carr was, and to a certain extent Singer as well.
Ron: Could you imagine Eric "Munchkin" Singer trying to play this song? I suppose this is also too far removed from Peter's style, then or now, to be done. (sigh) I still weep for the loss of "Fits..." to the land of obscurity. Ever notice the influence of Deep Purple's "Highway Star" in the pre-chorus?

"Rain"
Byron: Slow groove, maybe Peter & Ace could handle this since they pulled off "Within."
Ron: I have never purchased Carnival of Soles and never will. Aw, maybe I'll buy the remaster. "Slow groove" -- Byron cracks me up. "Plodding elephant" is more like it.

"Spit"
Byron: Double bass for the chorus would have to be deleted and replaced with a floor tom patter like on the verse of I Stole your Love, but could be interesting. The solo would give Ace a hard time unless he throws Bruceisms into it and does his own thing.
Ron: Every now and then Charles Byron Fogle comes up with a good one. Maybe with his suggestions, KISS could swap "Spit" with "Within" or some other audio sleeping pill. "Spit" is a great song, although one I tend to forget about. Gene is very Roscoe P. Coltrane in certain sections.

"I've Had Enough (Into The Fire)" / "King Of The Mountain" Byron: Somebody call 911 we've got a dead pussycat on the stage! He's having trouble breathing GET OXYGEN, STAT!
Ron: Yes, these are out of reach for KISS at any given time, except for '84-'86. There was a certain time in Kisstory where the band members' chemistry and drive matched perfectly to the point where speedy material with substantive guitar and bass parts (not to mention high vocals) could be performed well live, and the middle of the '80s was it. These are two great songs. "King of the Mountain" was played in concert maybe three times. "I've Had Enough" features a complex foot pattern that is not readily audible. You have to really study it to catch on.

"What's On Your Mind"
Byron: Classic Ace tune that was forgotten, though I'd prefer "I'm In Need Of Love."
Ron: A Thought Vault reader sent a well-written e-mail containing a thesis on how the four 1978 KISS solo albums could have been melded together to make an absolutely amazing KISS album proper. Included was a track listing that differed from both Best of the Solo Albums listings. Unfortunately I have lost that list, which I had intended to run in the "Ron Responds" section of the Vault. "What's on Your Mind" is a song that could fit into any concept, be it the one described above or a concert set list. The solo album material comprises another one of those untapped audio frontiers for KISS, the fact the band did some solo songs during the Dynasty tour (and we're lucky enough to have some video and audio proof) doesn't placate my desire to see them do it now. For example, "Love in Chains" would be brutal!

"Goin' Blind"
Byron: Done by the band on the promo tour in '95 but never with the original band. Most people would say a ballad would work with Gene's make-up on, I say it might if done with the right lighting and strobe lights.
Ron: Back in '94 I would never have expected this song to resurface, and lo and behold it came back from the dead in a big way. Did you ever see the English MTV performance of this song done by Gene and Paul? "Goin' Blind" is a tremendously powerful number, but I think it was finally given its justice on Unplugged. I don't think it needs to be played live, but it perhaps would be interesting to hear Ace and Peter go "...Blind."

"All The Way" Byron: Very simplistic song, cool chorus, would be neat to see.
Ron: Great bass parts (read as: unstructured) and sing-a-long choruses. As a live song, it has potential, and I'm surprised it wasn't played live pre-Alive! This song is from the "yin" side of Hotter Than Hell, a group of "happier" songs ("Let me Go...," "Coming Home" and "Mainline are the others) that are closer to the first album's spirit, and foretold some of the brighter spots of Dressed to Kill. The "yang" of course is comprised of the darker selections, like "Watchin' You" (It's easy to see why this wasn't used for the first record) and "Strange Ways." Even "Got to Choose" and the title track have that lumbering and exclusive second album feel.

"Great Expectations" (unplugged w/ strings)
Byron: Save it for the Unplugged album mentioned above, KISS would never bring a string symphony on tour. They wouldn't ever carry the circus show we were supposed to get on the PC Tour unless, like the opening bands, they received no money to play. I'd suggest set them up under the stage and have the strings rise up through the stage or play to a tape.
Ron: This song is one of my personal favorites. Until recently, I had never even noticed how parts of this song we recycled for "Hard Luck Woman." I don't know if Gene could handle this vocally. Also, it should have been included in the Unplugged/convention tour era.

"And On the 8th Day"
Byron: Great rocker, but way too obscure for Paul's taste. He seems to be really set against playing obscure 80ís tunes like "A Million to One" or "Burn Bitch Burn" (see Metal Edge ås DRC movie mag interview from a few months back for the exact quote about obscure songs).
Ron: Paul Stanley's recent statements about odd material and how fans should not expect to hear any of it upset me. If you think about it, more people own copies of Animalize than Psycho Circus, and therefore are more familiar with "Burn Bitch Burn" than "Into the Void." I know many fans might not want to hear "BBB" (I personally wouldn't mind it, and some Europeans didn't in late å84), but Paul's glib remarks show a certain disrespect for the fans who have really stuck with the band, and kept them afloat through some really tough times. Gene in sequins and an afro wig? He didn't feel comfortable? Well, as a fan, I didn't either. They wrote the songs, and they (the latest and original KISS model) are the only ones who could play songs that perhaps weren't made for the stage, or used in scenes from KISS Meets the Phantom. I think Paul was being typically insensitive to fans' desires, and he seems to be the most sensitive KISS guy of all. This may sound hypocritical, but I also maintain that the group's performing of a few token å80s songs is great, and about all that could be expected. It's wonderful to know that "Heaven's on Fire" is back. It is funny that Vinnie Vincent may be getting more royalties from "Lick it Up." By the way, do you think the band's playing of this one will somehow be incorporated into an out-of-court settlement with the pink-fin aficionado? Time will tell.

"Into the Night" (Ace solo)
Byron: Not one of my fave Ace solo tunes, but hey somebody liked it enough to mention so I can't knock anyone's opinion.
Ron: This song should have earned more airplay than it did when it was a single way back in 1987. What a silly video, though.

"A Million to One" Byron: See above "And On the 8th Day" critique.
Ron: This song is top-shelf å82-'83 KISS. Peter and Ace could handle this, so why not? Well, because it is obscure as heck, and Gene would have to be put in a trance to remember it was on a KISS album.

"Rock & Roll" (Led Zeppelin cover)
Byron: Good choice. Paul would love this one I think cause in my eyes he's always wanted to be Plant Jr., which is not a bad thing to be by the way.
Ron: How boring is this song? "Plant Jr."? That's certainly a bad thing in my eyes and ears. Ramble on, Byron...

MOST OBSCURE MENTIONS

"Mr. Speed"
Byron: I'm partial to this one. I always wanted to hear this one live, and by the e-mails I got so do you all.
Ron: KISS meets the Stones! I would like to hear this live because I think it would sound even better than on the album, for the production on Rock and Roll Over is limiting. Played through today's arena rock equipment, the bass would shake you, and the guitars would form and audio "wall," almost like Alive! We used to play this all the time in Strange Ways, and it was one of the first bass lines I sat down to figure out. I think Paul played it; it may be Gene like, but contains a certain finesse that points to a "Star".

"Strange Ways"
Byron: Same as above mentioned great solo by Ace Ron: Detroit snooze city. Ace does hit some great notes here, but other wise this song drags, and would live.

"Plaster Caster"
Byron: This is a cool tune Gene always wanted to do. I don't think it was justified and presented well enough on Unplugged. This is a rocker and should be played that way. However, Sure Know Something translated incredibly to the unplugged environment.
Ron: This song is a chair with connected legs that have rounded bottoms?

"Flaming Youth"
Byron: Most people requested this to open the show with the curtain dropping as Paul screamed the "WhoaYeah" part. KISS fans do think alike in most cases, and I think it would definitely be unexpected and a really good opener, but my idea was for "Psycho Circus" into "Flaming Youth." But hey, I'd take this just as long as it was played in the set.
Ron: I can't say anything here except that the next KISS Though Vault is entitled "Dousing Flaming Youth," and it will be all about this song, organ and all.

"Room Service"
Byron: Great song, could be a great addition.
Ron: Remember when Skid Row used to play this live, in like 1989? I saw them do it at L'Amour in Brooklyn, and it was okay. I was dating a stripper at the time who was friends with another clothes remover, and she was dating Scotti Hill. I got to hang out backstage and mingle with the likes of various Britny Fox members. That's the second time that Britny Fox (there's the third) received mention in my commentary -- excuse me while I drink some poison. Poison? Uh oh... "Room Service" is odd because it has its both safe zones (verses) and hard parts (choruses) that would make for sloppiness. I would have to check that boot I have of it from one of the few times it was performed. This is a great song though, right? It has that certain spirit to it, and the "room service" angle is novel enough to maintain interest. Along with "Coming Home" Paul really had planes on his mind during å74-'75. I thought Gene was the one who was/is afraid of flying!

"Two Timer"
Byron: Another all time fave of mine, but it may be to obscure to play though. I'd flip out if it was done.
Ron: Don't flip, Byron (Charles). "Two Timer" is an excellent song which has a pre-chorus that is as strong as the official chorus part. And don't forget the wonderful bass playing (great sound, too), or Peter's tasteful drumming (as well as the blunts double hits in the intro). Gene tells a great story here. "She thinks she's high fashion... I tell her all the time" is Cheap Trick-like in its wittiness. This song is KISS blues. Could KISS do this live today? Standing still, yes. So, it would be a great soundcheck song.

"Got Love For Sale"
Byron: Simmons at his best, growling a good cocksman song for him to remember the Demon character he forgot long ago.
Ron: This doesn't strike me as a character-defining song for Gene. On the preceding album's "Calling Dr. Love," he clearly states that for his love "there are no bills, there are no fees." Here, his love is available if the price is right. Still, this is a good song made great by: 1) Peter's parts, and 2) The backing vocals. The final title is better than the working moniker of "Have Love, Will Travel."

"All American Man"
Byron: Same as above, but for Paul & his Starchild persona.
Ron: Isn't this a no-brainer? Shouldn't this song have been done constantly for the last three years? The ending is perfect for some fireworks.

"Got To Choose"
Byron: Great Alive! rocker that got a lot of requests here as well.
Ron: I burnt out on this song, but it could work. Wooh, ooh woo...

"Rockin' in the USA"
Byron: Not many requests, but more than the other obscure mentions above so it just made this category.
Ron: I have sung praises to this song many times in the Thought Vault. But live? Nah, I don't think it could work. Maybe with a time machine Peter å77 could play it with Paul å96, Gene å79 and Bob å78.

"Tomorrow and Tonight"
Byron: Should've been done years ago. Great anthem, though it's a shame it really wasn't ever done live. Alive II as most of you know had this one done it the studio with a crowd box behind it.
Ron: Another one that should have at least been tried out.

"Let Me Know"
Byron: Another lost Alive! gem. They'd have to do it the old way as on YWTB, and if "She" isn't in the set the tag riff would be cool like as it appears on the 1st studio record.
Ron: Whatever with this one. I think it is a great studio song.

"Almost Human"
Byron: Another lost classic that got tons of votes. If Gene got into character fully this could really be a treat. The tempo could be slowed down a bit for Peter and sound even heavier.
Ron: Character is important. If KISS actually tried this, and Gene stood erect, Hot in the Shade style, it would be a waste. This should be the centerpiece for a whole new part of the KISS live show. In Rip magazine in 1989 or early 1990 Gene actually mentioned this song as one he would like to do. At least that's where I think the quote appeared, but he said it, and I almost fainted. Simmons could do the blood here. They could have bombs, strobe lights, you name it. And, I think the band could pull it off musically. Get me Doc McGee's number now.

Solo Album songs:
"Tonight You Belong To Me," "Wouldn't You Like To Know Me" Byron: Great choices for Paul solo disc should they include solo songs again in the set.
Ron: As I mentioned earlier, many solo albums songs could be performed.

"Hold Me Touch Me" (acoustic)
Byron: This goes under the "I can't believe somebody else thinks like me" category. I thought if they re-figure the piano on acoustic possibly 12 string and Ace on electric this could be really cool, but I'd see this falling under the possible Unplugged II record if it ever were to happen.
Ron: There are certainly enough songs for an Unplugged II. In Kerrang! around å88 Paul said that this song "is going to be a hit for someone someday."

"Radioactive" "Tossin' & Turnin'"
Byron: Largo '79 really didn't do these songs justice and I'll admit could be a nice treat to hear these again.
Ron: Yeah, these would be great, but why not some other solo material? Didn't anyone dare mention "New York Groove"?

"Rip It Out"
Byron: If the middle drum part was redone by Peter to add his type of fills it could be a hands down definite. Paul has gone on record in many interviews to say that he loved this song when he first heard it.
Ron: Boring. It makes me think of various Ace solo band lineups.

'80s & '90s mentions One side note for this section since it seems to be a subject met with some controversy here. There were a few people (again not many) who are dead set against KISS "putting these under an umbrella" as I like to say. These fans would rather have classic & obscure '70s songs, though I disagree. I'm all for KISS trying something different. I feel if the '80s and '90s versions of KISS could play the old songs, why not have the originals give a tip of the hat to the '80s & å90s? It is their history after all. Unlike the Sammy Hagar version of Van Halen, where barely no original band material with exception of a few songs were done, at least KISS and their other members never bitched about playing the classic stuff live. All members of any line-up got into it 100% which is a credit to them sacrificing the material they put out at the time to make room for the old songs. I do, however, respect these fans' opinions and felt I needed to make mention of them here and say what I felt as well.

"Shandi"
Byron: Huge request from the fans here. I know Paul doing it solo was cool, even though it wasn't tried over here on the tour and only in Australia, but if done again it should be done with the whole band possibly unplugged style if they decide to do an acoustic set.
Ron: KISS should have played this as band in '96. Chalk it up to politics as to why it didn't happen, but be thankful it happened at all. I love "Shandi," even if it is a weird name.

"Creatures of the Night"
Byron: Double bass & Peter = no good, never gonna happen unless the impossible happens and he's been working on a double bass style with a drum teacher while off tour. But that's highly impossible, given Peter's statements on double bass drummers in the past. Also another "Call 911" song any way.
Ron: This song does not feature double bass drumming in the way that "I'm Alive" does, so I think that from a drumming style stand point it could be played. I just don't know if the Ace and Peter approaches would work with this song. They might. It would be interesting, that's for sure.

"Hide Your Heart"
Byron: Most of you had the same idea, which would be a real first: Paul & Ace trade verses! Very cool idea for the fans who suggested that one -- very creative!
Ron: Anybody remember when Ace used to sing "Detroit Rock City" during his club tours? If you do, you know that¼s why he shouldn¼t switch verses with Paul. Well, maybe if he only sang all the „Tito¾ parts.

"Forever"
Byron: Easily can be done if they decide to play any unplugged style tunes like Hard Luck Woman.
Ron: This song belongs to the time it was recorded in, and doesn't transcend it into being a timeless KISS song. Eric Carr's drumming and Bruce Kulick's solo are unique to their abilities as well.

"Unholy"
Byron: Too difficult for Peter, I feel, unless again simplified for him. The great idea you all had is to have Gene spit blood during the opening of the song - again very cool idea.
Ron: Peter could muddle through this, but Ace would get lost. This was a strong effort from Gene at a time when we the fans needed it -- and who else should we thank? Hmm...

"Domino"
Byron: Oh, if only Gene could remember the words! This, I felt, was always a classic KISS sounding song anyway, so it's an obvious call from fans to hear this one again.
Ron: Why it doesn't sound classic to me, I think, is because it is a descendent of "Christine Sixteen" in its lustful yearning tone. It deserves a shot, as it is a cult favorite of the Army.

"War Machine"
Byron: Ala 1984 Animalize tour, you all have agreed for the most part like the Unholy/blood thing, this is where Gene should breathe fire. This could work well. Hell, it worked once before and we all know KISS like to reuse the same gimmicks over & over again =)
Ron: The problem with "War Machine" is that it gets boring live, since it doesn't have a bright chorus. KISS knew this, and would jazz it up with pyro. It's still a good song, and would be neat to hear with a signature Ace solo added.

"Lick it Up," "Heaven's On Fire," "I Love It Loud"
Byron: The obvious choices, these no doubt will be done so there'sno need to put my 2 cents in... except to say it's about freaking time! Seeing these performed in make-up is refreshing and ties all eras of KISS under the same umbrella once & for all proving these songs don't "belong" to any era - they all are KISS songs period!
Ron: This triumvirate speaks volumes of Kisstory, and deserves another place in the spotlight.

"I Just Wanna"
Byron: Great crowd song and could get the crowd moving a bit for those who are familiar with it. They'd have use the lasers again ala 1992 Revenge tour for the soft part, which was really cool.
Ron: I never liked "I Just Wanna," though it seemed to be a crowd pleaser. KISS could handle it.

"God Gave R&R to You II"
Byron: Good song for the band to try, but even Bruce said that this was hard for the 1992-96 band to do so I don't know if Ace & Peter could pull it off being that Bruce & Eric easily have more chops that Peter & Ace.
Ron: This is one of the reasons why Alive III is a worthwhile purchase. Its theme is very close to the heart of the KISS spirit.

"Tears are Falling"
Byron: A lot of you voted on this one. It could be a shoo-in depending on Ace & Peter's chops. Great addition for the Alive 4 disc done New Years eve.
Ron: This was hit and miss live, but on Asylum stands as one of Paul's best moments. Yes, Ace and Peter would have to do it their way, and would certainly be different.

"Take it Off," "Uh! All Night"
Byron: I put these together because any one of you who voted for these said the same thing.... STRIPPERS! Some went as far to say the strippers should come out in the "Girls of Kiss" makeup. Would be cool, though I'd like to see just white face to tie in with the Love Gun album cover - but not many people may make the connection.
Ron: The strippers thing was dull. I could live without "Take it Off," but love "Uh! All Night." live, it was just all energy, and the Asylum KISS logo would turn about a million different colors. Then there was the Who-style ending, which roughly went:

EEEENNNT (guitar chord)
Paul: Wooh!
EEEENNNT
Paul: WOW!
EEEENNNT
Paul: Uh!
EEEENNNT
Paul: All Right!
EEEENNNT (hanging chord)

By the way, the "Girls of Kiss" idea was/is one of the lamest things I've ever seen.

"Crazy Nights"
Byron: Simple "Do You Love Me" beat for Peter. A change of the solo is fine if Ace couldn't handle it. I think he could since he used a whammy bar in 87-88, so he would just have to re-familiarize himself with how to use it properly.
Ron: Good point, Ace did have a whammy. I don't think this song is worthy of resurrection.

STANDARD SONGS TO KEEP IN THE SET

"Rock & Roll All Night" "Love Gun" "Shout it Out Loud," "Deuce"
Byron: These got the most mentions for those who didn't mind having them stay in the set. I have to add though, there wasn't many of you.
Ron: I can tolerate these just fine, too.

OLD CLASSICS TO ADD (Songs actually played live by the band at some point)

"Hard Luck Woman"
Byron: One that Peter fans want to hear more than "Beth!" Granted, "Beth" is more well known but let's kick it up and be daring and give this one a shot. Hell if you gotta keep "Beth" for the few that will scream bloody murder, no problem. Just make sure this one is right behind it!
Ron: I can't understand why this wasn't done on the Reunion tour, considering it was worked up for such purposes. I saw the set list, man.

"Parasite"
Byron: The most requested number and one of my all time favorites - a staple of the '92-'95 era. Well, bring it back one more time so the Ace man can have some fun. I like the idea of Gene & Ace sharing vocals, but if you look at old tapes G&P did the dual vocal so, I say make it a threesome and add Ace to the mix. Hell, throw Peter into it if he could play the beat and sing it without sacrificing the song. His rasp would be a nice touch to it as well.
Ron: If Peter could do it now, why not? But, I'm afraid that if he could, KISS would have tried this one already. By the way, Byron typed something above about the "Girls of Kiss" and strippers a few sections above, and now he types "threesome."

"I Want You"
Byron: Classic song with an Ace/Paul dual lead not heard since 78. I for one was so thrilled to see I Stole Your Love done with the old dual solo, so this is another one I'd love to see done old school style.
Ron: Too tough. Isn't it ridiculous that KISS can't handle some of their own material?

"Christine Sixteen"
Byron: A great Simmons stomper, but not a ton of votes. But again, enough to be mentioned here. Gene would need to remember his talking part like the album though or at least come up with something not as corny as the David Letterman show version from '95 "You're a freshman and I'm a Senior." Give me a break, oy vey! Gene Simmons: I would like to do this one again.
Ron: "Stomper?"

"I Stole Your Love"
Byron: My first song I ever heard from this band when I was 3 years old. Obviously a special place in my heart for this Love Gun gem, and the same sentiment as stated above in the "I Want You" paragraph above follows: DUAL SOLO!
Ron: Classic song, the band is capable, why not? I think by "dual solo" Byron is referring to the fact that Paul and Ace split the leads in "I Stole..." and "I Want..." He's not implying KK Downing and Glen Tipton or any of that crap.

"Nothin' To Lose"
Byron: Should've been done on the Reunion and kept on the PC tour, not dropped after the Dodger Show. Most fans waited to see Peter come back and when he did they didn't get one of his signature songs, his chorus talk back in "Nothing To Lose." I know I felt robbed. Hell, if Gene (Get it? Gene? Hell? -- Ron) doesn't want to sing it let Peter sing it with Paul doing the inter-verse talk backs, ala Japan 1977 or just do it that way again. Paul should've been singing the talk back inter-verse with Peter anyway at Dodger stadium, I feel. It adds more depth and thickness to this cool little Motown type tune.
Ron: This must have been great at Dodger Stadium. I'm surprised it hasn't been played at the frequency level of "Do You Love Me."

"Hotter Than Hell"
Byron: A classic by any other name is "Hotter Than Hell," especially into "Firehouse." Though a lot of you are tired of "Firehouse," but oh well, can't please us all now (ha ha).
Ron: See above, I mean above Byron.

"Watchin' You"
Byron: Peter had a rough time with the timing on this tune, but he played much better on the PC tour. So maybe it could be OK this time. But I miss Gene hitting the high note in the 2nd verse (yes, I'm picky). Maybe Paul can back him up to make me happy LOL!
Ron: It's songs like this that make me pine for the Reunion tour, as the band's collective focus was such that relatively harder material like "Watchin' You" was conquered. Sometimes I can't believe that it's the same band anymore -- where's the conviction?

"Strutter"
Byron: Next to "Deuce" this symbolizes KLASSIC KISS as it's been termed over the years from the guitars to the drum intro. I personally want this one back in the set
Ron: Yeah, Byron's right. "Strutter" belongs in the KISS set. It was great during the Reunion, especially when Paul played a flying V, and he along with Gene and Ace swayed back and forth.

"2,000 Man"
Byron: An Ace signature song only done a few times on the '96-'97 run. With the Millennium coming up this is a natural so I'm sure we will see this one make its way back in the set, at least at the NYE show in Canada (and it did -- Ron in editing mode)
Ron: This song's performance live is notable for the placement of Ace's solo at its end. I could live without "2000 Man," because I feel that other Ace numbers are long overdue for performances in the context of KISS concerts. How about "Rocket Ride?" They could skip the ending. There are plenty others...

"Rock Bottom"
Byron: Not only a great wrestling move, but a really cool song. And the way they did it on the '96-'97 tour was great with the lighting while Ace & Paul did the intro. I think Ace should use his 6 string on the hard part cause to me it looked like he had a hard time playing the solo since the guitar he used had a huge double neck body. He should use a 12-string on a stand if they add this one back to the set again
Ron: "Rock Boredom." A good song, a true ancestor of "Lick it Up" and even (inexplicably, since Paul didn't pen it) "Is That You," but one that had a fair share of outings already. I'd rather see "C'mon and Love Me."

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