From: ZOLKSTER@aol.com

I, like most KISS fans have been awaiting the release of Psycho Circus with much anticipation and when a friend of mine got a hold of a copy, I nearly wet myself with excitement. It was, however, all in vain because on the whole this album SUCKS!!! Don't get me wrong, I've been a devoted fan since I was in the first grade (circa 1977) and the only reason I ever picked up the bass was because I wanted to be Gene Simmons, but this album does absolutely nothing for me. Even though the band is back in it's original configuration, it just isn't classic KISS.

In my opinion, the best song on the album by far is "Within" (track 2, sung by Gene). It's heavy and it's powerful. Next would have to be "Into the Void" (track 4, sung by Ace). It's simple, catchy, and it's classic Ace. Outside of "Psycho Circus" (track 1, sung by Paul), there are no other good songs on the album. "I Pledge Allegiance" (track 3, Paul) is a typical rock song with no hook. "We are One" (track 5, Gene) is way too happy sounding to be Gene. It's a weak tune. "You Wanted the Best..." (track 6, sung by all members) is a pathetic attempt at creating a new anthem to either complement or replace "Rock and Roll All Night." "Raise Your Glasses" (track 7, Paul) could probably have made Paul's solo album, but the song is too cheesy and boring to merit any kudos this day and age. "I Finally Found My Way to You" (track 8, Peter) is the biggest piece of crap song I think KISS has ever recorded. There is no way KISS will ever top the success they had with "Beth", so attempting to do so is silly. I will never listen to this song in it's entirety again...ever! "Dreamin'" (track 9, Paul) is the type of song that gets lost. There is nothing catchy or unique to talk about. The chorus sounds like it could've landed on Animalize. It's a song with a typical structure and no pull. "Journey of 1,000 Years" (track 10, Gene) starts out cool, but it quickly becomes monotonous. There are no hooks in this song either. The musical outro is cool, but that's the extent of the good parts.

In closing, it seems to me that KISS got away from what made them huge in their heyday. Where are the songs about partying and screwing chicks? They are nowhere to be found. All of Ace's playing on this new album is the same as it's always been: bends and pentatonic scales. Perhaps if he wrote more songs, the album may have sounded more like classic KISS. As for Peter, I would be surprised if he appears on the entire album. Some of the beats are just not his style. As much as loved seeing KISS' reunion tour, I was much more pleased with Carnival of Souls. Bring back Bruce and Eric!!!!

P.S. I don't have a copy of the album. I spent countless hours at my buddy's house listening. In other words, don't e-mail me asking for it!

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