From: Chris Stompanato
KISS said goodbye to Rockford, Illinois last night to a nearly capacity crowd at the MetroCentre.

Skid Row got the crowd warmed up in fine fashion. I think they've done a good job on this tour.

Ted was rockin' again as he has this entire tour. The only difference in his show was during "Fred Bear" they played a wilderness/hunting video and there was a mock campfire at the front of the stage. His band mates did not carry him off stage at the end of the show as they had been doing.

As for KISS, what can I say? I have to admit tears came to my eyes as they descended to the stage. That is such an effective show opener. It gives me chills.

The person who did the "You Wanted the Best..." intro was definitely not the same person who has been doing this. It almost sounded like a young teenager doing it.

Set list wise, everything remains the same. Show wise, a couple very subtle things thrown in. They've added a neat camera angle for Peter that shoots him from below to his right. If anyone is going to an upcoming show, check out the split screen shot of Peter and Ace at the very beginning and end of "Cold Gin". Their interplay as they start and finish this song is very cool.

I think the couple days off over Labor Day did the band well. They played tight, but I have to say, they were extremely loud. It seemed to take almost 3/4 of the show before that got Ace's guitar properly into the mix. Everyone was dead on, seemed to be having a great time, and in fine form. Gene showed his sense of humor by reaching down and gently placing a pick on the top of one of the security guard's bald head.

As for the news tidbit, I was listening to Rockford's rock station, The X, on the way up. Members of Skid Row stopped by a pre-show party that was being held at a local bar. Snake Sabo was interviewed, and he of course talked about how great it's been for them to open for KISS. He then said he is now working with KISS on video for their "Pay-Per-View" special. No other details were given and the DJ did not follow up with any questions about it.

KISS ASYLUM -- KISS Museum News Archive Features Tour Dates Photos