"Detroit Rock City" from Ottawa Bluesfest July 15 (July 16)

2 great fan filmed clips from Montreal concert (July 15)

Some pics from July 13th Montreal show (July 14)

New KISSonline is up (July 14)

The new improved KISSonline website is up! Could this mean album news is on the way?

Check it out here...

http://www.kissonline.com/

Pics from July 11 Windsor Ont. show (July 12)

Happy birthday Eric Carr (July 12)

On July 12 1950,the Fox was born.

Today he would have been 59,he is missed.

Brand new KISSonline coming next week (July 12)

ALL NEW KISSONLINE COMING NEXT WEEK!

Attention KISS Army!

We are excited to announce that we will be launching the new KISSONLINE early next week! The site will feature several new areas including:

ALL NEW KISS Kommunity Section
Klassic KISS videos
New KISS Kulture section
New Home Page layout ...and much, much more!

Most of content from the current KISSONLINE will automatically move over but if you have uploaded any photos, tattoos or artwork to the current KISSONLINE, we suggest that you download the images now so you can resubmit them to the new KISSONLINE next week. The new KISS Kommunity allows fans to upload both photos and videos to the site!

If you have not renewed your KISS Army membership and you want access to presale tickets, now is your chance!

"Deuce" video from Sarnia July 10 2009 (July 11)

KISS was made for loving Sarnia (July 11)

KISS WAS MADE FOR LOVIN' SARNIA

By Jessica Ireland Special to the Observer

On Friday, KISS discovered that Sarnia was its own “rock city.”

“We’re proud to be here tonight,” said frontman, Paul Stanley to the energetic crowd. “Sarnia could teach big cities what rock ‘n’ roll is all about!”

Audience anticipation began to build as a black cloth with KISS splashed on it was draped to hide the stage in preparation for the explosive show.

As soon as a glimmer of sparkle off drummer Eric Singer’s outfit was seen behind the curtain - the crowd went wild.

Eventually the rest of the band members, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer and Paul Stanley made their way onstage - clad in their iconic painted faces, platform boots and cosmic costumes. The rock legends had arrived in their signature style.

Opening with “Deuce” and “Strutter” from their 1975 KISS Alive! album - the foursome powered through songs more well-known to long-time fans but still received a rousing reception from the entire audience.

Between songs, the band took time to show their love for Canada.

“We consider Canada not our neighbours but our second home,” Stanley said to cheering fans.

“This is family tonight!” he yelled before launching into “She.” The song ended in a heart-pounding guitar solo by Tommy Thayer.

Throughout the two-hour concert, KISS kept the energy up as the audience experienced their exhilarating rock amidst fireworks, searing pyrotechnics and Simmons’ infamous tongue.

KISS ended their set with the classic rock and roll anthem “Rock and Roll All Nite” as the audience erupted into cheers and were showered by white paper confetti.

But they didn’t keep the crowd waiting long after saying good-bye, coming out for a six-song encore of crowd favourites including “Lick It Up,” “I Was Made For Loving You,” and “I Love It Loud,” with Simmons, fake blood running down his mouth, being lifted onto a platform to play above the stage lights.

Charismatic singer, Stanley, got up close and personal with audience members, flying over the crowd on a zipline and performing on a mini-stage set-up in the middle of fans’ outstretched arms.

As the encore came to a close,the band played “Detroit Rock City.” In a finale of more fireworks and thank you’s to “the most loyal, most awesome fans in the world,” KISS left audience members a little harder of hearing and even more ready to rock.

KISS opens Canadian tour in Sarnia Ont. (July 11)

KISS WOWS BAYFEST!

By TARA HAGAN

Thousands of screaming fans ‘loved-it-loud’ last night when legendary rockers KISS took to the stage at Sarnia Bayfest.

“How you doin’ people?” yelled Paul Stanley to a screaming crowd, with cameras high in the air, at 10 p.m. sharp. “Did you come tonight to get some rock and roll?

“Well you came to the right place.”

Outrageous pyrotechnics exploded on the massive stage as frontman Gene Simmons belted out the opening hit, “Deuce,” amid a thundering roar from the 21,00 strong crowd, dominated by their famous fan following known affectionately as the KISS Army.

Stanley followed up with “Strutter,” before embarking on a number of classic hits.

This probably was the most prep we’ve ever done for a show,” said organizer Michele Stokley, citing a fleet of eight trucks, four buses, 900 pounds of dry ice and enough pyro to fire-bomb a city.

“I’m going on probably an hour and a half’s worth of sleep, but when we see the show, its all going to be worth it,” she said hours before the headliners took the stage.

Jan Moran was on cloud nine.

“I just met Gene Simmons,” said the winner of The Observer’s Superfan contest, who earlier managed to swindle her way backstage to get up close and personal with the famous frontman — debunking rumours he wouldn’t make the trip to Sarnia.

“He twirled me around and said, ‘Come here, sweetie,’ and we took a picture,” she added. “He said I looked pretty hot.”

Moran and her galpals arrived at the much-anticipated KISS concert in signature rock-glam makeup and costume. The foursome snagged VIP tickets after submitted a contest video they’d dedicated to the band.

But they weren’t the only ones dressed up.

Devout fans donned the band’s infamous face paint – mimicking Simmons, the “demon” and Stanley, the “starchild” – clad in KISS costume and ready to rock and roll all night.

Ron Dunlop and his sons, aged eight, six and three, were clad in full KISS regalia and makeup while waiting in line for much of the afternoon. The family made the trip from Chalk River, Ont. for the young trio’s first KISS concert.

“It’s all the extra things they do to just make the show better than others,” said William, the eldest son.

“I’ve been a fan since I was 14,” said Dunlop. “They treat their fans with so much respect, and they’ll do anything to please them.

“They always put on a great show.”

The group — Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer –— is on a series of Canadian stops that include Orillia, Windsor, Ottawa, Quebec City, Montreal and Halifax.

Legendary Cobo Hall closing it's doors. (July 11)

LEGENDARY KISS ARENA CLOSING DOORS

The legendary concert venue COBO arena is to become the victim of a city expansion plan. This historic structure has hosted KISS concerts on many occasions, not the least of which was the series of shows that became the KISS ALIVE! album. As producers of the documentary film "Live at COBO" we wish to get the word out to all artist who have a connection to COBO.

Detroit area filmmakers Douglas Akers, Lisa Hagopian, Eric Harabadian and Jake Hall are currently producing an independent full-length documentary feature entitled “Live at Cobo.” The film will focus on the origins of Cobo Arena and its rise as a world class venue via the remarkable variety of events presented there and the long-lasting impact it has had on our culture through musical, political and professional sporting means.

The filmakers have been granted full access to COBO arena for filming interviews there with the artists about their experience there during its golden era. Time is running short for us to give artists one last opportunity to step into the hall that help make music history. Please pass this information along to anyone that can help us document the stories before COBO is gone.

Contact us at www.liveatcobo.com.

Gene Simmons reveals 3 new song titles (July 9)

GENE SIMMONS Reveals More New KISS Songtitles - July 9, 2009
KISS bassist/vocalist Gene Simmons has told The Canadian Press that the band's new album, which is due this fall, will feature such songtitles as "Russian Roulette", "Modern Day Delilah" and "Stand".

Lead guitarist Tommy Thayer will write and sing his first song on the album, while drummer Eric Singer will also get his first opportunity to sing a lead vocal on an original song.

Simmons also promises there were no outside writers working on the Paul Stanley-produced disc.

And as for the sound of the album?

"No strings, no keyboards, no synths, no tambourines, no nothing -- just meat and potatoes," Simmons said.

According to Simmons, KISS is planning on taking some time off toward the end of the summer.

"We have a lot going on, I mean there's KISS M&Ms, there's KISS Dr. Pepper, there's KISS everything, soon it's gonna be Planet Kiss," Simmons notes.

In late September, the band will head out on its North American tour, which Simmons promises will include a return trip north of the border. "We're gonna hit Canada again," Simmons said, "because you've been very bad and you need to be punished."

Read more from The Canadian Press.

New KISS "Legends Of Rock" compilation coming in Aug (July 8)

It's coming out on July 14th from Universal Music Canada.

Track Listing:
Heaven's On Fire
Lick It Up
Strutter
Hotter Than Hell
Deuce
Hard Luck Woman
Shout It Out Loud
I Was Made For Lovin' You
Christine Sixteen
Black Diamond
Detroit Rock City
King Of The Night Time World
Calling Dr. Love
She
Rock And Roll All Nite (Alive Version)

Paul's message on new KISS CD (July 7)

MESSAGE FROM PAUL

THIS IS KISS. CLASSIC KISS!

If you been reading KISSONLINE, it's no surprise to you now. We ARE done recording our new album.

What might well be a surprise is that at the least, the album is right up there with our best. As much as we may have tried at some other times to achieve this, the chemistry, line-up or lack of total commitment from everyone might have been cause for it being impossible. Not now. Not this time.

I know that when you hear it you will agree.

Before we began the album, I said I was only interested in doing it if I produced and we followed set ground rules; Total commitment by everyone, pure guitar driven KISS, no outside writers, no outside players and my opinion and say would always be final.

All said yes and I know we'd all say we've never had more fun together.

All four of us made this our priority. Everyone was involved everyday. From the first day of writing to the last day of recording everyone was there giving 100% to making this the album we knew we had in us. I've never seen Gene more selfless (yes...Gene!), focused or harder working. His bass playing, songs and overall contribution help to make this the album you've wanted for so long. Without his spirit, this wouldn't have been possible.

As far as Tommy's guitar playing, he took this chance at bat to consistently hit it out of the park. His playing is fiery and rooted firmly in our history, while making his own mark. Tommy's singing, writing contributions and total involvement made clear what's been missing for so long.

In the twenty years I've known Eric, I've never seen him this relaxed or creative. His playing is the foundation of our next step forward. Relentless and full of spit and swagger. Many lead singers don't have Eric's chops or range. He's singing great on his track and all over the album.

Wait till you hear what we've got for you.

Do I sound proud of everyone and what we've done together? I am, and I should be.

Eleven songs. Eleven winners.

This IS KISS. Classic KISS.

It's been a long time coming.

PAUL

Message from Tommy on new KISS CD (July 6)

MESSAGE FROM TOMMY

YOU'RE GONNA LOVE IT!


Well the brand new KISS studio album is almost ready to go - actually more like ready to EXPLODE! We finished recording last week, with the exception of one tune that needs an hour or so more --- I have to tell you it KICKS!

Paul has done a fantastic job keeping everyone in line and the direction clear. As you might have heard, all the tunes were written within the band and recorded analog -- which means hot, heavy and rockin' in the classic sense!

We definitely didn't over-think it.

From the beginning stages of writing, rehearsing and arranging the tunes, to putting the trax down on tape, we went with our GUT... kept it raw and real. We didn't go more than two or three takes when we recorded the basic tracks, which by-the-way, we recorded with all four of us together -- which is a rare (or non-existent) occurrence with bands in this modern digital age. We had a laugh when we were tracking the 11th and very last tune and Eric said, we have to get this in two or three takes like all the others or it ain't no good!

The true test for how new tunes hold up is when you play them live. As everybody probably knows, we haven't played any of these brand-new songs in concert, but we did run a few of them at our sound check in Milwaukee last week. Yep, you guessed right... They SCORCHED! Our tour crew guys were like, HOLY S**T, what was that?!!

It's been a gas doing this record with Paul, Eric and Gene -- truly a collaborative effort! I told the guys the other day that in my humble opinion, this is by far the most cohesive sounding record KISS has made in a long, long time -- meaning that ALL the tunes are great, the sound kicks my ass, and it all fits together perfectly as an album.

IT DON'T GET ANY BETTER THAN THAT!

Can't wait for you to hear it... You're gonna LOVE it!

TOMMY

"360" or "Sonic Boom"? (July 6)

ARE WE GOING TO BE TURNED BY 360° OR BLASTED AWAY BY A SONIC BOOM??

As the D-Day is getting closer as much rumors about new KISS album title are popping up on the net. We told you lately of the stories around 360°.

With the recent comment by Eric on KISSonline "The band has come full circle" that "possible" title gained points on another rumored title like SONIC BOOM. This last one came out from recent comments on the new "old sound" the KISS music will have.

Nevertheless, Michael Doret, the artist father of the Rock and roll over cover and also of the new baby is closed in a secreted silent and he doesn't say a word about...

KISS in the past rejected some cool possible titles like:

The harder They Come, original title for Hotter Than Hell
At Midnight, original title for Dressed To Kill

Severe Cuts, original title for Killers
War Of The Gods, original title for the follow up of the Elder
Dragonfly, original title for Animalize
Who Dares Wins, original title for Crazy Nights and also considered for Hot in the shade
Head, original title for Carnival of Souls......

Meantime yesterday night Gene stated that "KISS just finished recording almost all of the new KISS studio album! It's the first studio album of new material in 10 years..."

New message from Eric Singer on new CD (July 5)

MESSAGE FROM ERIC

NO BALLADS, NO SLOW SONGS, NO FILLERS!

You Wanted The Best ?

Well the wait is almost over...

I have been hearing KISS fans say for a longtime that "All's we want is NEW KISS music" ... Well, sometimes wishes do come true !

Last December Paul called me up saying he wanted to make a new KISS record. He seemed very keen and was very specific about the approach to our latest endeavors.

He basically said he wanted us to make a KISS record and music in the purest sense. Meaning No outside writers, the BAND plays on everything, and we use vintage equipment.

Guess what ?

The end result is everything I could have hoped for.

I have to say this has been the most fun and pleasure making a record I have ever been involved in. The chemistry and overall vibe really made for such a great atmosphere and the playing, sounds and songs just really capture what KISS is all about. Classic Rock & Roll.

As we were working up song ideas everyone was very in tune and conscious of our goals at all times. Gene and Paul would retrace their steps from the past and focused on paying tribute to their roots of the early styles of Classic KISS by paying close attention to the way they sang and the sounds of the instruments.

The camaraderie between everyone and especially Gene and Paul really made it easy for all to bring the best out of each other.

Paul took the reigns and headed up the project like the leader that he has been for over 35 years but, this time with a renewed, inspired and very patient style (he is a great dad after all). He really knew what he wanted from each of us individually and collectively.

We did the 11 new songs in small batches by getting into a rehearsal studio first to work up ideas. We then would move to the recording studio. The recordings would entail all of us playing "live" together in the room. As we captured each performance we would then add extra guitar parts and usually put a guide vocal on the track so we could live with it for a few days and make sure the tempos and vibe was right.

By the way we used NO click tracks on this record I am proud to say. We really went for capturing the live feel and essence of each song. And, Paul, Gene, Tommy and myself are the only musicians playing these songs. A true band effort and performance !

As for the songs ?

Well, no ballads, no slow songs, no filler...

The band really has come full circle.

Just pure straight ahead Rock and Roll that has all the elements that made you love KISS from day one.

Everyone sings lead on a song (Tommy and myself) and even trade off vocal lines and parts throughout the record.

Believe me the wait IS over and well worth it !

I hope you all enjoy listening to it as much as we did making it...

More as it happens !

ERIC

"This is out best album in 30 years!!"- Gene Simmons (July 4)

MESSAGE FROM GENE

BEST KISS ALBUM IN 30 YEARS!

Our new album (title of which you'll just have to wait a bit longer for) is just a few steps from being completely done. We're planning on re-visiting one of the eleven songs, to make sure it's gotten everything it deserves. Maybe re-arranging it one last time. Then, time to mix.

The entire writing and recording process of the album harkened back to an earlier, more innocent time. A time that produced albums such as ROCK AND ROLL OVER and LOVE GUN. And, the new songs have that feeling, I have to say.

It all started with a point of view Paul had. The view had to do with ignoring the times, ignoring the critics, not over thinking who and what we are...and that we had nothing to prove to anyone....nothing. We have been releasing albums and touring for 35 years and why wouldn't we want to do an "honest" record. Just do it!!! And, he wanted to produce the album himself!!!

While it's true in the past we had produced KISS records together. And we had both produced other acts outside of KISS. But here was Paul saying he wanted to shoulder the responsibility and burden of steering the good ship KISS on his own.

He was serious. And, I saw it was real. I saw the commitment he was going to make to the album and the band... and I agreed. We all trusted each other and saw the same vision of the band...and perhaps democracy is overrated...and sooner or later, someone had to decide.

And I will tell you here and now, he's done a great job.

The process of writing songs involved both writing separately, but often, in hotel rooms and rehearsal halls, literally starting from scratch and throwing riffs and chords at each other. Then working on melody and lyric...starting alone, then bringing it into the rehearsal halls and even during recording, we would often critique the lyrics all the way down to the last minute.

Tommy really stepped up in the songwriting area....co-wrote some songs with us and actually sings his first song on a KISS album.

Eric, likewise was always encouraging and of course, provided his always dependable bombastic drumming style. But unlike other drummers, Eric is also a great singer. Wait until you hear him tear it up on his lead vocal.

What else, you ask?

Well, Paul and I trade vocals on a few tunes and had a lot to say about each other's songs...

Result? Maybe the best record we've done in 30 years.

Bold statement? You bet.

Wait till you hear it.

GENE

KISS makes cancer patient dream come true!! (July 3)

KISS FULFILLS CANCER PATIENT'S DREAM

By William Croyle - Cincinnati Enquirer

Critter Smith flew on an airplane for the first time June 27.

"It was awesome taking off and looking out the window at how high we were," he said.

But that was nothing compared to what was waiting for him and his mom, Carol, after they landed in Milwaukee.

They were flown there as guests of KISS, one of the world's most famous rock-n-roll bands, for a concert that night.

Critter got to meet the band - Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer - before the show, take pictures during the show and returned home with a stash of memorabilia almost too big to carry.

"When Tommy was on stage, he came down and gave me his pick," Critter said. "And Eric walked right up to me and gave me his drumsticks. It was pretty sweet."

They also gave him a load of KISS merchandise, including notebooks, pencils, trading cards, action figures and...

"Look, they gave me a KISS toothbrush that plays 'Rock and Roll All Nite' when you brush your teeth," Critter said with a big smile.

The 11-year-old was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a cancer of the white blood cells, in July 2007. For the next five months he underwent five rounds of chemotherapy and a round of radiation.

On Nov. 9, 2007, he received a bone marrow transplant and spent six weeks in the hospital. He returned to Fourth Street Elementary School, and was in remission for 15 months, until this past January.

He's been receiving chemotherapy all year and is back in remission. He'll continue treatments for three years, then must wait another five years before he can be declared cured.

When a story about Critter that appeared on nky.com in March mentioned his love for KISS, word circulated among KISS fans and eventually reached Keith Leroux, who manages the band's Web site and merchandising. Leroux contacted the band, which was rehearsing in South America for its current tour.

The next day, while in Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Critter received two calls - one from Stanley and one from Singer. They gave him words of encouragement and invited him to a concert.

"I knew they said they'd do something for him, but I never expected this," Carol Smith said about the all-expenses-paid trip. "I don't think I'd ever seen Critter so happy. He was on top of the world.


Critter (whose real name is Christopher) said the band was in full makeup when he met them back stage before the show.

"Paul walked in and was like 'Hey Gene, this is Chris,'" Critter said. "It was so cool that Paul knew who I was."

Critter said Simmons was "a really big guy, and really nice guy."

"He said to me - well, I can't remember what he said to me," Critter said. "I was just so stunned."

Leroux said the band does things like this quite often, but is pretty humble about it.

"They do a lot and donate a lot, but they don't like credit for it," Leroux said. "They're really good guys."

Stan Smith, Critter's dad, said the band's generosity has lifted his son's spirits.

"It's just so nice of them to do all of this for him," he said.

Critter's next chemotherapy treatment will be Tuesday. He said he dreads having to go through it each time, but KISS makes it more bearable.

"They really help me," Critter said. "KISS music really makes me happy."

Ace Frehley "Anomaly" commercial (July 2)

Sneak peek at the new KISS "360" trading cards (July 2 )

KISS 360°

KISSONLINE SNEAK PEEK

Discover 360 degrees of KISS. From the exhilarating live shows to the crazy stories from the road, KISS 360° uncovers all aspects of the KISS legacy.

The 90-CARD BASE SET includes subsets such as The Demon Speaks, Unmasked, Behind Starry Eyes, Welcome to the Show, and Road Stories.

ROCK STAR RELICS features authentic memorabilia cards featuring items from Gene (autographed leather pants), Paul (autographed vests and a jumpsuit), and Eric Carr (autographed drumheads). Also look for dual Gene/Paul memorabilia cards (Pictured).

KISSignatures features cut signatures from Gene, Paul, Peter & Ace, including a quad cut signature card featuring autographs from all four original members (Pictured).

TRANSFORMATION - a 6-card lenticular motion card insert

SNAPSHOTS – a unique plastic card insert featuring classic photos of the band

Also look for “BLOOD-SPITTING”, “$” (hobby-only), “Dr. Love” (Wal-Mart), and “Kissed” (Target) base set parallels

Visit Press Pass' Official Website at the following address: http://www.presspassinc.com/ .

Ace Frehley "Anomaly" release date announced! (July 1)

ACE FREHLEY: 'Anomaly' U.S. Release Date Announced - June 30, 2009 According to the Rocket Science music label services organization, which lists original KISS guitarist Ace Frehley as one of its clients, Frehley's new solo album, "Anomaly", will be released on September 15. The CD was produced and recorded in Westchester County, New York between 2007 and 2009 and was mixed in Los Angeles by Marti Frederiksen, who has previously worked with AEROSMITH and DEF LEPPARD, among many others.

"Anomaly" official track listing:

01. Foxy & Free
02. Outer Space
03. Pain In The Neck
04. Fox On The Run
05. Genghis Khan
06. Too Many Faces
07. Change The World
08. Space Bear
09. A Little Below The Angels
10. Sister
11. It's A Great Life
12. Fractured Quantum
13. The Return of Space Bear (Dedicated to Tom Snyder) (iTunes exclusive)

Paul Stanley "One Live KISS" DVD wins Telly award (June 30)

ONE LIVE KISS WINS TELLY AWARD!

The 30th Annual TELLY AWARDS have been announced and ONE LIVE KISS received the highest honor!

ONE LIVE KISS : Producers Paul Stanley & Louis Antonelli have received the Special CLASSIC GOLD TELLY AWARD, presented to Film & Video productions that are among the finest in the 30 year history of THE TELLY AWARDS.

Founded in 1978, The Telly is the premier award honoring outstanding local, regional and cable TV programs, as well as the finest video and film productions. The 30th Annual TELLY AWARDS received over 14,000 entries from all 50 states and 5 continents.

Among past winners of The TELLY AWARDS are industry leaders such as:
Harpo Studios - Oprah Winfrey, Dreamworks, Pixar, Disney, Lightstorm Entertainment, TCM, Clear Channel Entertainment, CNN, A&E, Comcast, VH1, Time Warner, MTV, and Universal Studios.

More official footage from Sat's Milwaukee concert (June 29)

Notice Paul promoting the new album!!

Footage from last nights (June 27) Milwaukee show (June 28)

More pics from Milwaukee June 27th show (June 28)

KISS rocked Milwaukee last night (June 28)

KISS STILL SHOUTS IT OUT LOUD!

By Bob Purvis of the Journal Sentinel

Photos by Rick Wood

When it comes to covering up your age, makeup goes a long way.

Celebrating more than 35 years of painting their faces and blowing stuff up, Kiss, the undisputed monsters of arena rock, proved Saturday night at the Marcus Amphitheater that they've got plenty more rock left in their lycra-and-leather tanks.

With a new album on the horizon, the rockers opted instead to dig deep into their catalog, tearing through a blistering set of tunes mostly plucked from their first three albums.

Descending to the stage amid a series of fiery blasts on a metal platform spewing smoke - and with an image of bassist-turned-reality-TV-star Gene Simmons' serpentine tongue flicker splashed across towering video screens behind them - the band ripped right into the thunderous hit "Deuce" off their eponymous 1974 debut.

With founding members Peter Criss and Ace Frehley absent from the tour, Simmons and guitarist-singer Paul Stanley soaked up most of the spotlight, strutting across the stage and interacting with fans throughout the set.

A brief downpour and a few lightning strikes did little to dampen the spirits of the fans in the lawn seats who seemed more awed by the pyrotechnic mayhem onstage than Mother Nature's humble display.

Dressed in a sparkling, rhinestone-encrusted spandex jumpsuit and wearing his trademark star-over-the-eye makeup, Stanley promised the crowd "something you will not forget" shortly before the band kicked into "Hotter Than Hell"- another early hit - as fiery explosions sent blasts of hot air over the crowd and Gene Simmons paced demonically across the stage.

"Hey, Milwaukee - do you mind if we blow (expletive) up tonight?" Stanley asked, to the deafening applause of the crowd, many of whom themselves donned face paint.

Simmons, who has experienced renewed celebrity thanks to his life-at-home reality show "Family Jewels," was never too far from the spotlight, whether he was blowing fire, stabbing a burning sword into the stage or wagging his oversized tongue like a demonic dog.

The band stacked its set with songs from that 1974 debut album, including "Strutter," "Cold Gin," "100,000 Years" and "Nothin' to Lose," with Stanley telling the crowd the tour was about "celebrating how it all started."

The rest of the show proved a dizzying spectacle, with countless fireworks, a drum riser nearly 50 feet above the stage and epic solos nearly as long as Simmons' tongue.

New New Orleans 1976 footage discovered (June 24)

June 23, 2009
FILM ARCHIVE PROJECT UNCOVERS GOLDMINE FOR KISS FANS

Fan filmed footage of KISS performing in New Orleans, LA on December 4, 1976 during the Rock and Roll Over tour was recently shared on YouTube by a small group of die hard KISS fans who are working to preserve the 8mm film legacy of the band. This footage has been in collectors circles for nearly 3 decades, but now the actual audio of the same concert has been added, giving it new life.

"It all started years ago when we discovered KISS were indeed performing Acrobat on the Long Beach 1974 footage." says Nick Vivid, CEO of MegaPlatinum Entertainment LLC and frontman for NYC rock band FRAULEIN. "We synced audio to it and in turn helped contribute to Kissology. We're really proud of that. These silent films of KISS in the 1970's may not seem like much on the surface, but when sound is added, we sometimes uncover findings of major historical significance. Who knows how long it would have taken for someone to discover the band was performing Acrobat on that film had we not lead the charge?"

That historical significance is being uncovered in real time. Along with a small collective of die hard fans, Nick recently created the unofficial KISS 8mm Film Project in an effort to properly archive all existing 8mm films of the band, sync audio to them, and find any possible rarities in the process. So far, nearly 40 films have been uncovered, but the work doesn't end there. "There is so much misinformation about these films and we've had to hunt in strange places to find upgrades and masters - which we're still in the process of doing. We have to really do our homework to figure out what's what at
times."

Thanks to people like Curt Gooch and Jeff Suhs, co-authors of the book Kiss Alive Forever, the workload has been a little easier. "Curt and Jeff did such an amazing job with that book and it's helped tremendously in our efforts to make this project as historically accurate as possible. Hopefully our research helps them, as well."

Along with the aforementioned "Acrobat" film, the collective has discovered a snippet of KISS performing "Mainline" in 1975. "We have found some interesting things while doing this project and are in the process of discovering more. Some of the rarities are on tapes that have been in fans' collections for decades. There may be a film out there of KISS performing Hard Luck Woman on the Rock n Roll Over Tour or Kissin' Time from 1974. You never know."

The collective is hoping that KISS will be interested in the project when it's done and that other groups and organizations, such as Bill Sagan and Wolfgang's Vault, will be interested in having the team work on other bands' silent films. "We've been able to really make these seem as real as possible, even if the audio isn't from the same show. We've got a very talented group here and have a proven track record of adding value to silent archival films that already exist."

The collective is also hoping other fans can help upgrade films, provide missing details, or come forth with canisters of films that may be in attics or otherwise collecting dust. Fans are encouraged to contribute to the project by contacting kiss8mm@megaplatinum.net

You can also visit the Youtube page for the unofficial KISS 8mm Film Project at http://www.youtube.com/kiss8mmfilms

"Rock And Roll Over" artist works with KISS on new album cover (June 23)

"ROCK AND ROLL OVER" ARTIST WORKS WITH KISS AGAIN

In a recent interview with LetterCult, artist Michael Doret discusses his iconic KISS "Rock And Roll Over" album cover and mentions he's working with KISS on their new album cover!

Here's the KISS part of the interview:

(Question) You said you drew your inspiration (for the KISS cover) from a job for a (Japanese) magazine cover, IDEA. Where did you get your inspiration for that cover?

(Answer) The magazine was doing a feature on my work and they asked me to come up with a cover for that issue. I did the cover image to look like a shooting gallery. So the inspiration probably goes all the way back to Coney Island—but the direct inspiration was also vintage tin toys and tin litho target games. Anyway I did the IDEA cover first and the whole KISS / Rock and Roll Over thing came afterward. I loved the way the IDEA cover came out, the way I had them print it in Pantone colors—it almost felt like a silkscreen. I really wanted to go that route again. As the members of KISS were wearing Kabuki-style makeup, the Japanese-y approach I did on the IDEA cover seemed a perfect match. So I came up with that graphic and used a similar color scheme and look. We even did it in five flat colors—not in 4 color process.

(Question) (The KISS cover) was like a shooting gallery then?

(Answer) Not at all. It turned out to be more like a mandala, more Asian-influenced. I was just going for the look I had come up with on that other cover. The visual theme I chose came out of the album’s name, the “Rollover” thing. There was no “right side up” to that cover…An interesting side-note is that after all these years since I did that work for KISS, they’ve come back to me and asked me to design their next CD cover. It’s a big project, and at the moment, I’m totally immersed in it.

http://www.lettercult.com/archives/529

KISS albums revisted-The DVD (June 23)

Exellent fan made DVD.

Paul Stanley on new album "We are just getting started" (June 21)

PAUL NOTE ON NEW KISS ALBUM

Hey All,

We're about four days from finishing the new KISS album. Eleven tracks, and it IS everything I've told you. It IS classic. It IS all written within the band. And IT ROCKS BIG TIME! Tommy and Eric both handle lead vocals. The songs, sound and playing will knock your socks off. You will all be as proud and excited as we all are. Oh...and WAIT till you see the cover!

We ARE just getting started!

Paul

(Photo of KISS in the Recording Studio - by Dean Snowden for KISSONLINE.

July 13 show at Bell Center to be broadcast on TV in Canada? (June 20)

*Kiss Live In Your Living Room. According to a 7 Jours' article, Kiss' show at Bell Center in Montreal, CA will be broadcasted live on TV. Here's what the article says in French:

The rumor is spreading and is gradually strengthening that on July 13, Kiss fans might see the legendary hard-rock band's show, live in their living room.

Nothing is yet confirmed. Or hardly ... One thing is certain, all indications are that Kiss fans won't all have to take a bath crowd to witness the legendary band's show. Some, even many, will see it live from their living room.

Contacted by phone, Pierre Marchand, Head of Archambault and Distribution Sélect Group, has not denied the rumor. Instead: "Negotiations for a partnership with the Gillett Entertainment Group to broadcast the show live on the specialized channels are indeed underway. This is the best option for the fans. In the convenience of their homes, they wouldn't have to dive into the crowd, nor turn themselves to the giant screens to see their favorite band in close-up."

The Bell Center in your living room?

Obviously, Bell Center's takeover by Quebecor would simplify things, he says. Until then, if the negotiations with the Gillett Entertainment Group are going well, the Kiss concert may not be the only one to be broadcasted on TV. He adds: "It would be part of a series of shows this partnership would allow us to distribute straightaway."

"Title of new album will be revealed soon."-Gene Simmons (June 19)

KISS ALERT!!!!!

NEW ALBUM TITLE WILL BE SHORTLY REVEALED!!!

STAY TUNED!!!

Then headed off to the recording studio to do some vocals on the new KISS STUDIO ALBUM (we'll tell you the title later). Gene Simmons

Got this great animation gif from a friend! (June 19)

Tommy Thayer talks new album! (June 18)

18-06-09

TOMMY TALKS ABOUT NEW ALBUM (Whole transcription from Guitarra Total interview thanks to KISSArmySpain)

The band is working on a song called "Rotten to the core" but it is not the old one. We are writing all new songs and there are no outsider writers. All is new. All four of us are involved. We are all really motivated and it will be the best KISS album in a long time.
Psycho Circus was an album without a clear direction and vision. There’re songs on it…you start listening to and you go “what the hell is this??” It will be not the case this time.
We are currently writing songs while staying in the hotel [during the South American Alive35 leg], Gene, Paul and myself sit down with the guitars in the hotel room and write down new tunes for the album. Yes I’m going to sing on a new tune on the album and it is not titled “Shock Me”!!
It's a great tune, there is something that people missed, and that I am a good singer, I am a good vocalist. I have much experience, but I've never been a solo singer. My voice works well on that and I think people will be surprised. For what concern new possible costumes for the fall tour a decision will be taken soon, I like so much the costumes from the Rock and Roll Over era, we will see.

Info on the "360" tading cards coming in August (June 18)

KISSONLINE SNEAK PEEK

Pictured is a new advertising brochure for the upcoming KISS 360 Trading Cards. KISS 360 is scheduled for an August release.

Each box will include 24 packs of five cards with a suggested retail price of $1.99 a pack with autographed and memorabilia cards from the band’s four original members — Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss – included. (Odds still to be determined.)

The 360 set follows on the heels of the popular KISS Ikons set that Press Pass released earlier this year. See more on it here and here.

There will be a 90-card base set, made up of several subsets — nine Unmasked cards, nine The Demon Speaks cards where Simmons “reveals the secrets to his success,” nine 2009 cards with highlights from this year, 18 Behind the Curtain cards, 12 Road Stories cards, nine Behind Starry Eyes cards, six Welcome to the Show cards and 18 Albums cards focusing on, well, their albums.

The insert card lineup will include Snapshots, a 12-card plastic insert (1:6 packs), and Transformation a six-card lenticular insert featuring mask on/mask off transformations that will be found one per hobby box. Also returning will be the Blood-spitting parallel cards as well as a few other surprises.

Today in KISStory,June 17,1995 (June 18)

FIRST OFFICIAL US KISS CONVENTION

KISS began the North American leg of the first Official Worldwide KISS Convention Tour on June 17th, 1995 in Burbank, California. Peter Criss makes a surprise appearance at the Convention and joins Gene, Paul, Bruce and Eric on stage, singing two KISS classics -"Hard Luck Woman" and "Nothin' To Lose".

The unique and revolutionary KISS Convention tour featured a traveling KISS Museum displaying vintage KISS stage outfits, instruments, and memorabilia. Performances by KISS tribute bands, KISS collectors/dealers buying, selling and trading KISS merchandise, precedes an evening appearance by KISS themselves, appearing live and in person, conducting a question and answer session, autograph signing, and a two-hour plus unplugged set comprised mostly of spontaneous fan requests. Both Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick also performed clinics at the events.

Official KISS Conventions were held in Australia, Canada and the United Sates.

Songs performed at the KISS Conventions:

Comin' Home / Plaster Caster / Goin' Blind / Domino / Nothin' To Lose / Sure Know Something / Calling Dr. Love / C’mon and Love Me / Spit / I Still Love You / God Of Thunder (Country version) / See You Tonite / Do You Love Me / A World Without Heroes / Every time I Look At You / Rock Bottom / Shandi / Strutter / Hide Your Heart / Black Diamond / Heaven's On Fire / Rock And Roll All Nite

KISS also played (at least portions of) Strange Ways / Love Her All I Can / Love Gun / Take Me / Love Theme From KISS / Just A Boy and many more!

Great new KISS tshirts (June 16)

NEW KISS T-SHIRTS

Here's the latest approved KISS T-shirts - KISS Unmasked and KISS American Rock. Both shirts will be available this summer.

Ace Frehley's "Anomaly" completed! Official track listing here (June 15)

Here's an update Ace sent out to everybody. Earth People!!! How are you?...... I'm happy to say that my new album "Anomaly" is finished! Mixed, mastered...Done!!!!! It clocks in as one full hour of new music......... I'm waiting for my distribution company to get me solid release dates that we can decide on. I want "Anomaly" to be available to you in every store around the world that sells cds these days (and that number is shrinking). Digitally, "Anomaly" will be available on iTunes (with an exclusive bonus, album only track!!). Believe me, as soon as we decide on the release date..... you'll be the first to know. But for now, the "official" track listing for "Anomaly" is on the news page........ Talk to you soon....... Ace 1. Foxy & Free 2. Outer Space 3. Pain In The Neck 4. Fox On The Run 5. Genghis Khan 6. Too Many Faces 7. Change The World 8. Space Bear 9. A Little Below The Angels 10. Sister 11. It's A Great Life 12. Fractured Quantum 13. The Return of Space Bear (Dedicated to Tom Snyder)

New KISS magazine cover (June 15)

ISS ON 'METRO' MAGAZINE COVER

Believe it or not, KISS is still in the media in South America....what an impression you left!

Here's KISS on the cover of the leading rock magazine in Bolivia - METRO! The issue features an article that I wrote about my incredible experience at the Buenos Aires concert, where 20 members of the KISS Army Bolivia traveled with me to shout, sing, jump and Rock and Roll All Nite!

Que viva KISS para siempre.

Eduardo and the KISS Army Bolivia are ready for the next tour!