From: Anthony Childress
Greetings from ArKISSsas! Well, The Natural State sure got a major kick in its butt tonight from the masters of music and spectacle - known affectionately to we rock soldiers as KISS.

The entire day was full of magic as I floored my car from the state's northeastern corner down to Little Rock, where I picked up two of my childhood best friends, then met another just before heading over to Alltel Arena for the concert.

Like so many others have said, with pride, I have been a fervent, faithful KISSter since the glory days. In fact, I first remember seeing the guys on the 1976 American Music Awards Show, performing "Shout It Out Loud" from Washington D.C. How's that for a memory? Anyway, this was to be the only time my buddies and I could see the band, not only on the Farewell Tour, but EVER. See, we grew up in a very conservative, Bible thumping region of this great nation. We were always told about KISS and Satan worship, KISS and bad music, KISS and all the evils that accompany rock and roll. Of course, my comrades (in the KISS Army, no less) NEVER bought into that crap. We knew better. We knew that this was so much more than just a band playing music.

And while we went our separate ways after reaching adulthood, that enduring KISS spirit endured and sustained us until our paths finally crossed again last year. In fact, the first thing we agreed on was that if KISS ever toured Arkansas again, we would be there! So guess what? The Farewell Tour is announced and WE GET GREAT SEATS DURING THE VH1 PRESALE! Now, on to the show, or as Paul says, "Welcome to the Show!"

For starters, Skid Row didn't sound quite as lethargic as some of the previous reviews have suggested, at least not to me. I was never a big fan of theirs, and when Sebastian Bach left, the spector just disappeared as far as I was concerned. But admittedly, this new singer is pretty good and sure sang his butt off to the sparse crowd. It was good to hear "18 and Life" again. I have always loved that song! Their set was short, so next came the Motor City Mad Man himself, Uncle Ted Nugent!

Now I have read where some of the fans took offense at his English-only remarks and statements about political figures during the tune, "Kiss My Ass." But let me say, as both an American and Arkansan, it sure was refreshing to hear someone speak their mind and not try to "kiss up" to anyone. While I did not agree with everything he said during the set, I certainly think Nug has major balls and doesn't mind expressing his feelings about people like Bill Clinton, Al Gore and Janet Reno. Funny, when a conservative Republican makes such comments, folks get all bent out of shape and call that person all sorts of names. What about liberal Democrats? Anyway, the political commentary aside, Ted played a killer set, which included "Stranglehold" and "Cat Scratch Fever." I loved it when he shot the arrow through his prized guitar. That was great!

One of my buddies said he thought Nugent was the most politically incorrect musician around, and I agree. It is nice to know somebody doesn't mind stepping on a few toes to get their point across. Are you listening, Jesse Jackson? When Nug finished, it was time for the BAND. My stomach churned and my heart pounded. I suspect I was not alone. Of course, I must agree with the great Mr. Stanley about that huge black KISS flag dropping just before they come out during "Won't Get Fooled Again" by The Who blares through the speakers. Classic moment. Then, the boys jet down to the stage from their platform, the infamous "You wanted the best . . ." words thunder out and the carnival has just begun! What a show. What a band.

From the opening chords of "Detroit Rock City" to "Deuce", "Shout It Out Loud", "Calling Dr. Love" and many, many others, this concert is one to behold. For me, now at the tender age of 32, seeing my superheroes means SO much more than appreciating their music. It culminates so many years of defending them, standing up to those pompous, self-appointed buttwipes who think they are "real" critics and just loving KISS for who and what it is they are. I had tears flowing at different points in the show, as did many other folks. I think KISS has special meaning to folks in Arkansas because as both a small and deeply religious state, it has always been a struggle to support KISS and hard rock music. We are the true epitome of the KISS Army and it showed once again tonight!

I really loved hearing the non-makeup songs, especially "Lick It Up" and was thrilled that Ace sang "2,000 Man" and played his solo at the end of it. And that awesome video during "Do You Love Me" had chills going up and down my spine, not to mention some more tears. This was a night of emotion and celebration. While I am sad that the boys are going to hang up their "seven inch leather heels" soon, it feels so right to catch them on the way out, fully in control and in top form. To be at or above 50, all four of them are stellar showmen and yes, damn good musicians. To the critics, go straight to the "hot" place and get there quick. To the fans who complain about the set list, etc., get over yourself and stay home. There are too many fans who really want to see this tour for you to waste your body in THEIR seat. And to the guy at a Little Rock guitar shop who all but said KISS had NO talent, ask yourself this question, bud - will ANYONE care when you are gone? Highly doubtful.

The pyrotechnics were spectacular, the set list was perfect, the guys were tight and having a great time (I loved all the smiles, especially from Ace and Peter) and above all, the crowd took one more trip down memory lane with their beloved heroes. What a night. What a night. I will be in Memphis on April 25 and will hopefully see KISS at least once more thereafter, but if not, I will always cherish what Ace (my favorite), Paul, Gene and Peter have given me during my life. I was only FIVE years old when they got together. And 27 years later, KISS still provides me with so much love and happiness. Thanks guys, you are the best. I love you all and wish you everything you want after the tour. For those who are awaiting a show in their area, get ready. KISS is about to take you on a rocket ride!

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