From: Tom Dixon

KISS - 1998, with the original four members together on one album. Like a number of other fans, I too have waited for a LONG time for this day. A lot has happened since the four had been together to record. I first became a fan in 1977 while I was overseas in Iran (my father was in the Army). I first remember listening to 'Hard Luck Woman', falling asleep to 'Take Me'. I was only five at the time, but I do remember enjoying the groove. From 1978 (when we returned home) to 1983, I really became familiar with the first six studio albums (excluding Alive!). At the time I received 'Lick it Up' in the mail, I had no idea there had been any member change! Imagine my surprise when I looked at the back of the album and read Eric Carr (R.I.P.) and Vinnie Vincent? From that day on, I made KISS my obsession. I wanted..no I NEEDED to know everything I could about KISS. I went on the search for 'Alive!', 'Alive II' and then the solo albums. All the while still purchasing the new material as it came out. I was able to come across original albums for my collection and I really enjoyed listening and listening to the older material. It was definitely a live feeling. The songs were simple and had a great sound. By the time 'Hot in the Shade' was released I had not been to a KISS concert yet. 'Hot in the Shade' was my first. I took my wife (then high school girlfriend) and had told her about the KISS show, the solo's. Well, the concert was a KISS concert minus the solo's. Boy was I sorry that I missed the 70's. My best friend in high school ('89 & '90) started to talk about how it would be nice for the original four to get together and tour again, though we both agreed that for that to happen, it would be a farewell tour. Well, Mr. Carr passed away and 'Revenge & Alive III' was released. I again saw KISS during the Revenge Tour. Even though I thought the 'Revenge' Album was good, there wasn't a very good turn out at the concert, which caught me off guard. There weren't any albums, up to 'Revenge' that really sounded like KISS, post 'Lick it Up'. During this time, I was able to get the info on the break-up of KISS during the '70's. I was also learning about Paul & Gene and their ideas, goals and business practices. I was wondering what it would take for Paul & Gene to realize that the fans wanted the Original Four back together. Then during the recording of C.O.S., 'Unplugged' happened. I know I wasn't the only one thinking 'Oh year, if this was any fun at all, they will reunite.' Sure enough, their appearance on the Grammy's confirmed my dream..A) I was going to get the KISS I grew up with live in concert. I was NOT disappointed. My wife is a spouse fan and she was impressed. And then for the bonus..they were going to record an album.

So I have waited patiently for September 22, 1998. Yes I listened to bits on the 'Net, but it really didn't do justice to the songs. So here a long-time fan's review of album he has waited on for a long time.

First, I wasn't looking for a retro-album. I was wanting some killer guitar (Ace!!) I wanted to hear the sound of all four guys singing back-up. I was hoping that there would be a difference in the '80's KISS and the original KISS.

Psycho Circus: This song will go down as a klassic. I feel it has the old ingredients. The guitar solo's are very cool. There is a difference in Lead Guitar. The drum and bass really keep the vibe going and Paul's vocals are superb.

Within: Yes, it SHOULD have been on C.O.S., but I am glad it wasn't. Very cool beat, lyrics. Ace can play anything he wants.

I Pledge: What other band can write about there history and make a great song about it. Again, cool beat and should be good live.

Into the Void: This is what the KISS albums in the '80's have been missing. Something for the mix. The riff is very cool and the bass and drum is very bass. Welcome back Ace!

We are One: O-kay, this is a slight departure, but it is very good. These guys have matured and so why shouldn't the sound and style.

You Wanted the Best: This song ROCKS. The guitar's are awesome. Again, who else could do a song like this.

Raise Your Glasses: Very good chorus, bridge. Another great KISS song.

I Finally Found My Way: Could it have used more Acoustic Guitar instead the orchestra. But I feel the song was nicely written and is a good song. I wouldn't be disappointed to hear it live.

Dreamin': This song is one I feel that could have come from the '70's. Imagine it not so polished. This one ROCKS!

Journey: I really enjoy the Beatles influence. There is nothing wrong with the journey they took on this song. Very creative.

As you can tell from reading, I am very pleased with this album. It is the original four with modern sound. Was it completely done like it was in the '70's. I don't think Paul & Gene gave up all of the control. (Should they have, the other two left). But I do feel this was an honest effort to try and I feel that they did succeed. I am very pleased. Can't wait for the show!!

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