From: Wayne Milliken
Well, needless to say,it was a weird feeling rolling up to Gund Arena. Realizing 27 years of makeup, sweat, and theatrics and simple catchy rock and roll was coming to a end. I caught Skid Row about 3 songs away from the end of their set. Johnny Sollinger proved to be a fine replacment for Sebastian Bach. However the Skids probally did this gig to break in Johnny and pay some bills. They really need a record to get back on track. So that way they won't be 3rd on the bill anymore. It will intresting to see what kind of musical direction they go into.

Uncle Ted gave what the 17,000 expected. No frills, attitude mashed to the floor rock and roll. His vocals at times were drowned out, but the rest of the 3 piece band were in sync.I seen Tommy Aldridge with Whitesnake and he hasn't let up since. Ted figured he should be a spokesperson for standing up for what you believe in. I guess someone has to. Ted Nugent should take a run at politics when he hangs up the gibson. Nuge played all his notable songs, but I wanted to hear, " Little Miss Dangerous" Oh well, thats life.

As for the 4 gents from NYC, this was the show of shows. They played like it was their last show for good. Everybody in the band was on the money. Ace played like someone really from another planet. His vocal work on "Shock Me" and "2000 Man" was outstanding. He has bettered with age. Gene Simmions delievered what one would expect from a "Demon" Gene's presence and attitude has always overshadowed his bass playing. But with Gene, thats always been key. The flight to the lighting truss went off without a hitch. I'm sure after Gene calls it a day, he won't miss wearing that 55 pounds of armor he carries each night. Gene is a true "Gladitor". Russel Crowe, take notice.

Peter Criss isn't the best drummer on the planet. But he is a steady timekeeper, who will never get his proper credit. A jazz drummer in a rock band, but it seems to work. on the past 2 tours, his voice was average at best. However, tonight, he was as strong as ever. If there is anyone pain in his arm, he didn't show it. "Black Diamond was sang with the same grittiness, for in which the streets Peter came from. Now onto Paul Stanley. The ultimate frontman. His voice was absolutely powerful and clear. When they sit down to write a book on rock singers, start it with Mr.Stanley. To Mick Jagger and all the Steven Tylers, take a seat.

Paul was agile and energetic. His version of "Love Gun" from the middle of the arena, is not to be missed. "Lick it Up" sounded awesome. " I Still Love You" really compliments "Black Diamond" His only glitch, he fell while trying to grab the mike during "100,000 Years" But in typical Paul fashion, he looked good in regaining his composure. Paul's between song banter is always a treat, and it always sounds sincere.

The bands decision to hang it up, its come at a good time. This show was everything that defined KISS. Endless pyro. Catchy songs. Simple musicianship sounding perfect. The most of all, a band that appreciates its dedicated following. KISS is going out on their own terms. Michael Jordan had the same thought.

Its hard to believe, but 27 years of a passion to deliver what the fans wanted, and got is coming to a end. That just don't make bands like they used too.

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