From: Jeff Motley

Hey guys, here is my essay/review of the new Kiss single....

When I first heard that a New Jersey station was airing 'Psycho Circus,' I became overwhelmed with excitement and curiosity. Brand new KISS! And it's the original Kiss! What would it sound like?

I immediately began an extensive search of KISS sites on the web, knowing that it would find its way on to the web pretty quick. It took me about ten sites to sort through to find it. Then at last...'Psycho Circus!'

Because it is technically illegal to be posting this song anywhere on the net, I won't divulge the source where I got it from. But a big thank you to that site's owner.

Okay, now what about the song? I love it! I think it's fantastic. It has made me even more anxious to hear the entire album.

I wasn't expecting something that sounded like it was from 'Destroyer,' and that is a good thing. 'Psycho Circus' is where Kiss is at in 1998. And the KISS of 1998 just happens to be the original lineup.

Before I get to the full analysis of the song, I feel the need to address a few issues about the reunited lineup:

"Is Peter drumming on this record?" - As a longtime KISSfan, I feel there is way too much 'Peter-bashing' going on. Give the guy a break. Although Peter Criss is no 'virtuoso,' he is a solid, capable drummer. If his style sounds different on this song, perhaps it is because he is experimenting and trying new things?

I am basing this on hearing the title track only. But I personally believe that if this KISS record lists Peter as the drummer, then that's who is on it. Back in the late '70's, before he was out of the band, other drummers were brought in to record in his place. That is a fact. This was because Paul and Gene were trying their best to keep the original lineup together. I don't believe they were trying to deceive anyone. There were times when Criss couldn't/wouldn't show up to lay down the tracks.This was a combination of personal problems and a growing disillusion between the two factions of KISS.

So, again, I fully believe Peter Criss drums on the entire record. But it doesn't end there. I think there are some detractors who also question if Paul and Gene play their instruments on this one!! This is when you know it has gone too far. Okay, let the truth be known, none of the original members play on this one. It is actually performed by ex-members. All the guitars are done by Mark St. John and Vinnie Vincent. And the ghost of Eric Carr (R.I.P.) is on drums.(Sorry about that last reference. It's just a joke. Eric Carr was one of the greats. He will never be forgotten.)

Another issue that many so-called 'fans' complain about is the return of Ace Frehley. You may not respect him as a person, but you should have respect for his musical contributions. He was, after all, the original lead guitarist. He helped to create the original, classic KISS guitar sound. I feel he deserves better treatment by some KISS fans. Many are still upset that Bruce is no longer in the band. I have a different take on that. If Bruce was still in KISS, we would not have the great band UNION! It had to be difficult at times for him being in KISS in the '80's, because it seemed that Gene and Paul were always in the spotlight. I'm happy to see that he has a band where he can really truly shine, in his guitar playing and songwriting.

Okay, now we get to the song 'Psycho Circus.' Could it possibly live up to the legacy of the past? Would it be 'classic Kiss?' My answer to the first question is 'yes,' and the second one I'd say it depends on what era you consider to be 'classic.'

'Psycho Circus' is a thunderous anthem that seemingly sets the tone for the rest of the album. My initial comparison was made with the title track of 'Creatures of the Night.' That song was a defining statement. It declared that KISS was back in true hard-rock form. Also, it had a rather dark tone. Songs like 'War Machine', 'Saint and Sinner', and 'Rock and Roll Hell' are good examples. The music was dark, moody, and heavy. I feel that 'Psycho Circus,' had it been written back in '81 or '82, would have fit perfect on that album.

Paul's vocals are indeed very strong on this tune. Others have said that his vocals seem much more deep and soulful now that he's gotten a little bit older. I totally agree. His voice still conveys that power.

The drumming sounds really raw and primal. Its not flashy, or overdone with fills. It fits the song well. And it is Peter Criss playing,okay?

Yes, that is Ace on guitar. I think its refreshing to hear the old Space Ace once again. I like the pre-solo that's here. It really does remind you of 'Elected' by Alice Cooper at first. But it's KISS all the way. The solo is typical Ace Frehley. Its all about feel. You don't need a million notes to get that across. The simpler soloes always seem to work better. (Remember, Keep It Simple Stupid!)

Gene's bass sounds fine here. He is an underrated bass player. That's because outside of the Kiss fandom, most people pay attention to his tongue and fire-breathing only, as opposed to his musical ability. And that's not fair. My personal favorite of the original solo albums is Gene's. From what I hear, his voice is in that 'solo album' mode on the rest of the record. I can't wait to hear it.

Lyrically, 'Psycho Circus' really conveys that 'call to arms' approach. This is KISS in the late '90's, heading for the Milennium. They are older, wiser, and they still want to rock. KISS knows what they have done for rock and roll, and all the people, places, and things they have influenced. This band really does not have to prove anything to anyone. Apparently Gene, Paul, Peter and Ace are enjoying what they are doing. 'Psycho Circus,' the single, is evidence of this. It's the original band, yet a new band. The song is fresh, and exciting.

I don't know if this will be KISS' last album/tour. They are a rock and roll institution, just as the Rolling Stones are. People always joke about the Stones being 'too old,' but they are still going. Look at how successful their most recent tour was. I feel the next KISS tour will be just as exciting and successful as the 'Reunion' was. The important thing to remember is that KISS fans should continue to support their favorite band. Get tickets to the show. Buy the new album. Let them know that you 'want the best.'

In conclusion, I am really looking forward to the official release of 'Psycho Circus,' the album. I am glad to have been able to hear the first song from it, even though it is not in the best audio quality. In a way though, I am glad that only one song has fallen into the bootleg area of fandom. Why? Because I think most of the excitement in buying a new cd is the fact that you HAVEN'T heard any of the material yet. The only excitement I got when I bought the 'Carnival of Souls' cd was the ability to throw away the awful sounding bootleg I previously owned. There were no immediate thrills, because I had heard all of those songs about a year and a half before it was officially released. So I think of this bootleg of 'Psycho' as just a teaser, an appetizer before the main course. I say let the excitement build. September is not that far away.

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