The Year Of KISS: Monster (2012)

“Cause money makes the rules!” KISS pulled their way back into the mainstream spotlight with Sonic Boom. Despite constant criticism from “fans” upset with the fact that Ace and Peter had been replaced by Tommy Thayer and Eric Singer, makeup and all, the group continued to tour successfully, selling out multiple shows and putting outContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Monster (2012)”

The Year Of KISS: Psycho Circus (1998)

“I wanna leave but I can’t get away….” With the recording of Carnival Of Souls: The Final Sessions all but forgotten, KISS rode a wave of nostalgia that started in 1995 with the reuniting of the original band on MTV Unplugged. KISS was once again at the top of the world, as the original membersContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Psycho Circus (1998)”

The Year Of KISS: Peter Criss (1978)

“Vaccinated with a Victrola needle….” In a daring attempt to bring a little bit of sanity back into the world of KISS, Paul, Gene, Peter, and Ace went their separate ways to write, record, and release four solo albums, one for each member of the group. All four of the albums, released on September 18,Continue reading “The Year Of KISS: Peter Criss (1978)”

The Year Of KISS: Unmasked (1980)

“All I want is a little conversation….” KISS entered the 1980’s in a state of flux. Peter Criss was out of the band and Ace Frehley was becoming disenchanted with the direction of the group. Despite this, he soldiered on and wrote two songs, co-wrote a third song, and provided lead vocals for all threeContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Unmasked (1980)”

The Year Of KISS: Dynasty (1979)

“I’ve Been A Gambler But I’m Nobody’s Fool….” 1977 saw KISS on top of the world. A trio of massively popular albums were followed up by a second live album, Alive II, which actually sold better than the much beloved Alive. In April of 1978 the band released their first greatest hits collection, Double Platinum.Continue reading “The Year Of KISS: Dynasty (1979)”

The Year Of KISS: Love Gun (1977)

“Make Me Feel Better…..” By 1977, KISS was one of the most popular bands in the world. Not only were Alive!, Destroyer, and Rock And Roll Over all successful albums, the band’s name and faces were plastered on tons of merchandise. KISS comics from Marvel, toy guitars, and a KISS radio were all released inContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Love Gun (1977)”

The Year Of KISS: Rock And Roll Over (1976)

“You need my love, baby, oh so bad….” Still riding a massive wave of success with both Alive! and Destroyer and eager to solidify their popularity, KISS went back to the studio in September of 1976 to record Rock And Roll Over. Released in November of 1976, the album is considered by many to beContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Rock And Roll Over (1976)”

The Year Of KISS: Destroyer (1976)

“All Of The Fame And The Masquerade…..” KISS released their legendary live album, Alive!, in September of 1975. The album was a risky move for both the band and Casablanca records. Another lackluster release would most likely shutter the record label’s doors and with it, possibly KISS’ future. Luckily, the album proved to be aContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: Destroyer (1976)”

The Year Of KISS: The Alive! Albums (1975-2006)

“You Wanted The Best…..” I couldn’t do an entire year of KISS’ studio albums without at least mentioning the Alive live album releases. KISS is best known for their bombastic live performances and their first Alive album literally saved them and Casablanca Records from falling apart. While I won’t go into much detail about theContinue reading “The Year Of KISS: The Alive! Albums (1975-2006)”

The Year of KISS: Dressed To Kill (1975)

“She’s a dancer, a romancer. I’m a Capricorn and she’s a Cancer.” Still looking for a hit album, KISS returned to the studio in February of 1975, four short months after the release of Hotter Than Hell. By March, the band released their third studio album, Dressed To Kill. While it sold better than itsContinue reading “The Year of KISS: Dressed To Kill (1975)”