This "News" page generally only relates to matters of interest to the KISSFAQ. There's no need to replicate news that can be seen on other KISS websites. If you use information appearing on this or any other KISSFAQ page, in print (fanzines) or online (directly quoted or rewritten), please have the courtesy to say where it came from. If printing in fanzines, I'd love a copy sent to the KISSFAQ PO Box. Should you want official announcements please visit the band's official website at: KISSONLINE.COM.
| Friday, June 27, 2008 9:13:37 AM - Quick Review: Japanese SHM Reissues Offer Surprise... |
You never know what to expect with reissues. Particularly those from another country. With the release of the Japanese SHM reissues, I've got to admit that I wasn't that keen on replacing any more of my KISS catalog. Even in the "cool" mini-LP format. So I went minimalist, since I'd not been able to get all of the solo albums during their last issue in 2005, I ordered the four from my favorite purveyor of Japanese CDs. They arrived this morning, and look beautiful, well, just like mini-LP reproductions. One immediate complaint is that the rear cover text of Ace's is too purple. Another is that the CDs are plain silver with minimalist text, rather than full screen-prints. And they are the same sonically as 2005, and 1998. However, they look great. The posters are reproduced in mini-format, and the four I got came with mini-reproductions of the US album center-rings. Apparently they're numbered, so I got Peter (190), Gene (716), Paul (2009), and Ace (2574). Peter's even includes a mini-repro of the song credits insert. All come with the repro dust sleeve, lyric insert, but no merchandise order form. Do they sound better? That's the question... (L-2008; R-2005 issue plus a dirty scanner!) |
| Wednesday, June 25, 2008 4:23:09 AM - Japanese Catalog SHM Reissues Plus new Box! |
As KISSFAQ mentioned in April, much of the KISS catalog 1980-87, plus the solo albums and "KISS Gold," were reissued in Japan today in the new SHM format. SHM-CDs are simply Super High Material that "features enhanced audio quality through the use of a special polycarbonate plastic. Using a process developed by JVC and Universal Music Japan discovered through the joint companies' research into LCD display manufacturing, SHM-CDs feature improved transparency on the data side of the disc, allowing for more accurate reading of CD data by the CD player laser head. SHM-CD format CDs are fully compatible with standard CD players" (CD Japan). The 1978-87 releases are in mini-LP style sleeves.       Unmasked (Universal UICY-93522) Music From "The Elder" (Universal UICY-93523) Creatures of The Night (Universal UICY-93524) Lick It Up (Universal UICY-93525) Animalize (Universal UICY-93526) Asylum (Universal UICY-93527) Crazy Nights (Universal UICY-93528)     Paul Stanley (Universal UICY-93529) Gene Simmons (Universal UICY-93530) Ace Frehley (Universal UICY-93531) Peter Criss (Universal UICY-93532)  And the previously mentioned: Gold (Universal UICY-90890) The 1980s albums were last reissued in 2006 while the solo albums have been out of print since 2005. The SHM releases carry a premium for the "new material" with the CDs retailing for around ¥2,800 instead of the usual ¥1,600-2,000 range. Discunion has issued the 1980-87 releases as a Box Set, following up their stunning "Double Platinum" box set from last year! The box includes the paper overlays used on "The Elder" and "Lick It Up."  |
| Thursday, June 19, 2008 4:13:25 AM - KISSFAQ's "Concertography" Update |
       
It keeps growing and growing and can be downloaded FREE. More added daily! |
| Friday, June 13, 2008 10:49:23 AM - More Japanese SHM reissues! |
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More of the KISS catalog is being reissued in Japan on the new SHM (Super High Material) format on September 24: KISS (Universal UICY-93650) Hotter Than Hell (Universal UICY-93651) Dressed To Kill (Universal UICY-93652) Alive! (Universal UICY-93653/54) Destroyer (Universal UICY-93655) Rock And Roll Over (Universal UICY-93656) Love Gun (Universal UICY-93657) Alive II (Universal UICY-93658/59) Double Platinum (Universal UICY-93660) Dynasty (Universal UICY-93661) And: MTV Unplugged (Universal UICY-91060) - 9/3 |
| Thursday, June 05, 2008 12:20:47 PM - KISS Idol: The Video |
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| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - Gene and Paul looking for their own replacements? |
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UPDATED. With 50% of the band already comprised of non-original members wearing the masked guises of original members, discussion has been rampant, particulary due to comments from Gene and Paul, that one day KISS could exist with ZERO original members. In recent days this discussion has taken a turn due to an interview here (in English) conducted by Norwegian television channel NRK during the band's Oslo visit this past weekend. In it, it is suggested that Gene states that "KISS Idol" contracts have already been signed and that it is going to become reality within a few months. Paul, as usual, brings things back to the realm of anything being possible and nothing being concrete. (Update: Thanks to Roy H Svendsen for the translation and background)... Anyone who has followed KISS in recent times know that the ground-work for such an event, though not necessarily method, have been being layed down for some times. There would be no other reason for the repetition of the statements that suggest KISS could continue without the remaining original members. For some it won't matter, they'll go to any "KISS" branded event. To others it might be a final straw from a band that once promised not to overstay their welcome. For still others it wouldn't matter as they said "Farewell" with the Farewell tour, once Eric put on Peter's make-up for the first time, well before Tommy did so with Ace's. Ultimately, it doesn't matter. What may be possible today may be forgotten tomorrow, there are too many variables. What anyone says does not amount to reality until it's in front of you, live and in technicolor. And with anything KISS, anything and everything is possible! Perhaps Eric is most succinct: "One thing I've learned about KISS is never say never!" Also, remember that being in the "KISS Army" isn't a suicide pact - you're welcome to get off the ride any time you choose. |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - New KISS Collecting Site! |
| There's a new KISS collecting site dedicated to the merchandise (something I never bothered with). Check it out at everythingkiss.com. |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - KISS US Dates! |
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KISS currently have three announced US shows: August 4 - Glencoe Camp Resort, Sturgis, SD August 30 - Harvey's Outdoor Arena, Stateline (Lake Tahoe), NV August 31 - Konocti Harbor Resort, Kelseyville, CA KISSFAQ will be making the trip to the NV and CA shows (if these shows do happen with 50% originals), so see ya there! |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - "Friday Night Rocks" Gives Sneak Preview of Vinnie Vincent Tribute |
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Steve Brown's new recording of the underground Kiss track "A Million To One," a song co-written by Paul Stanley and Vinnie Vincent, premiered during the May 30th episode of nationally syndicated radio program Friday Night Rocks. In the studio with DJ Eddie Trunk were Steve and his Trixter bandmate Mark "Gus" Scott, who were there to promote the upcoming Trixter reunion. Also discussed was Steve's new cover of "A Million To One," which will receive its official release on the upcoming tribute album "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To Vinnie Vincent." "It's just an amazing concept and that's why I signed on to the project," remarked Brown during the broadcast. "I mean, who would think to do a Vinnie Vincent tribute album? I just thought that was so funny! But Vinnie was a great guitar player and a great songwriter." "You can laugh all you want about the fact that there's a Vinnie Vincent tribute album," offered Trunk, "but he was a huge part of the reason why Kiss had a career in the '80s. He wrote "Lick It Up" and all that great stuff. No matter what state the band is in now, Vinnie was a huge contributor to their success." Trunk further added, "You've got to hear Steve's version of "A Million To One" because he did such a great job on it. He covered one of my favorite songs from a non-original Kiss lineup and he did such a different, cool version of it that I was just blown away. I only play one ballad per show, so I'm going to play it tonight." Ed later ended the program by selecting the song for his closing ballad. Steve's interpretation of "A Million To One" is an elaborate acoustic rendition of the song, putting a fresh new spin on the 25-year-old classic. A 30-second sample of the song is available at the SplitScreen Entertainment website. Steve Brown currently fronts the modern rock act Stereo Fallout and is expected to reunite with his Trixter bandmates for select live dates in 2008, including the massive Rocklahoma festival in July. Though Vinnie Vincent himself has not released any new material in over a decade, "KISS MY ANKH" will pay tribute to the undeniable musical legacy of the former Kiss guitarist. Vinnie's compositions are widely regarded as a highlight of the Kiss catalog and remain a staple of the live Kiss set list. Included on the tribute will be selections from the three Kiss albums to which Vinnie contributed, as well as the two albums he released with the Vinnie Vincent Invasion. Additional artists and track listings will be announced as they are confirmed. Further details can be found at the SplitScreen Entertainment website. "KISS MY ANKH: A Tribute To Vinnie Vincent" is scheduled for a Summer 2008 release. http://www.SplitScreenEntertainment.com |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - Ace Cancels European Meet & Greets... |
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Via his publicist, Ace Frehley has issued the following statement to his fans: "As you know, we’ve been experimenting, as have other performers, with the idea of meeting and greeting my fans at the end of a concert. A few days ago, we had such a meet & greet at my show in Nashville. While it was a good event, upon reflection, I have ideas which would make such meetings spectacular. I want this to be an incredible experience for my fans. Until I have time to perfect these meet & greets, I have decided not to have any on this European tour. I hope to have this in place by my next European tour. In the meantime, I hope to see all of you at my scheduled tour dates, which remain unchanged." |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - Stunning Ace video! |
Ace fans have been craving recordings from his current tour, and now there's a stunning contender. Ace's performace from the Nokia Theatre in New York City on April 4 is circulating as a video, blowing other videos from the tour out of the water. Check out this sample! The sample features part of Ace's medley, including the webmaster's favorites "Torpedo Girl" and "Speedin' Back To My Baby." Kudos to those who put the video together - this site can't tell you where to get it, just that it exists. DON'T PAY FOR IT!! And check out the Ace-Frehley.com multimedia page for much more! |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - KISS Alive/35 Worldwide Concert CDs |
 01. 2008-05-27, Helsinki, Finland 02. 2008-05-30, Stockholm, Sweden 03. 2008-05-31, Oslo, Norway 04. 2008-06-01, Bergen, Norway 05. 2008-06-03, Copenhagen, Denmark 06. 2008-06-04, Hamburg, Germany 07. 2008-06-06, Prague, Czech Republic 08. 2008-06-09, Berlin, Germany 09. 2008-06-10, Mannheim, Germany 10. 2008-06-11, Oberhausen, Germany 11. 2008-06-13, Donnington, England 12. 2008-06-15, Nijmegen, Holland 13. 2008-06-17, Paris, France 14. 2008-06-28, Dessel, Belgium Order HERE at £15 a show. For those attending the shows there is the option to pick up the CD at the venue, though reports indicate the queues/lines are long! |
| Monday, June 02, 2008 4:39:55 AM - KISS Aussie "Acer Arena" banner to benefit disadvantaged children |
 The ACMF helps disadvantaged children, including Indigenous children and teens in juvenile detention centres, to improve their lives through music. Acer Arena Business Development Manager, Don Elford, said that his organisation is proud of the association, as the synergies between the two organisations are very strong. "This is a perfect fit, Australia’s busiest concert venue being able to support such wonderful work." Don Spencer, Founder & Director of ACMF, couldn’t agree more. "An innovative partnership like this can provide valuable funds to assist us to continue our programs across Australia". The two organisations are looking at creative ways to work together and are excited to unveil their initial fundraiser. For the first time ever, Acer Arena has agreed to auction off the unique banners that are displayed outside the venue - promoting current & future performers. Fans will be very interested to view what's on offer over the coming months, as there is a diverse range to choose from. The next banner to be auctioned on Ebay is from the recent 'KISS' tour, which is bound to be a collector's item. Bidding for this unusual piece will be taking place from Thursday 29th May, 2008 and can be viewed at HERE. The auction will be live for 7 days only so don't delay if you want to grab your piece of music history. Check out the auction on Ebay... |
| Friday, May 23, 2008 5:21:17 AM - KISS booked to rock Sturgis |
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STURGIS, S.D. — May 22, 2008 — In what is destined to become "the night that rocked Sturgis," legendary superstars KISS will perform at Glencoe Nation's Rock'n the Rally on August 4th. Recognized as one of the biggest and best bike rallies in the world, Sturgis Bike Week celebrates its 68th year this August 4-10, 2008. Currently in the midst of a sold-out European arena and stadium tour, KISS will make a stateside detour to thrill Sturgis with the one-of-a-kind stage show for which they're known. Along with the screaming guitars, lights and pyrotechnics that have made KISS "The Greatest Rock n Roll Show On Earth," the band will play songs from their vast repertoire of classic hits. Having sold 85 million records worldwide, KISS has become the soundtrack of a generation. In honor of their 35th anniversary, the band plans to play their KISS ALIVE album in its entirety as well as a few surprises and rarely played live KISS classic gems. KISS invented stadium rock in the 70's with their sci-fi Kabuki costumes and make-up, explosive theatrics and, of course, their trademark platform boots. In their extensive world tours, they've attracted the most rabid fans: The KISS Army. Now celebrating thirty-five years of rockin' the globe, KISS founders GENE SIMMONS and PAUL STANLEY, along with longtime band members guitarist TOMMY THAYER and drummer ERIC SINGER, vow to bring to Sturgis the time-honored KISS spectacular that has made their performances legendary. Tickets to the KISS performance on Aug. 4 in Sturgis, S.D. are available at www.startickets.com or 1-800-345-9213. Glencoe camping information and additional lineup announcements may be found at Rock'n the Rally's website: rockntherally.com. About Glencoe Founded in 1983 by Gary Lippold, the family-owned and operated Glencoe Nation was established to accommodate the hundreds of thousands of motorcycle enthusiasts who descend on Sturgis, S.D. every August for Bike Week. Occupying 900 acres of land, Glencoe provides tent camping, RV sites, a full-service convenience store, shopping and world-class entertainment all right in the heart of Bike Week action. To provide unparalleled entertainment for the region, in 2006 Lippold built the Glencoe Amphitheater, which hosts Bike Week's annual Rock'n the Rally. With capacity of 100,000, Glencoe Amphitheater is the largest outdoor music venue in the nation. The facility boasts a perfect 5-to-1 pitch and is beautifully landscaped with Kentucky bluegrass, giving it a truly natural look and feel. Since opening, Glencoe Amphitheater has hosted some of the music industry's best acts. About Rozone Founded in 1994 by David Rosen, Rozone Productions has more than fifty years of collective concert promotion and production experience. Rozone has worked with a who's who list of talent including Tori Amos, Chuck Berry, Harry Connick, Jr., Ghostland Observatory, Merle Haggard, B.B. King, Metallica, Michael Martin Murphy, Little Richard, Sting, Randy Travis and Weezer, to name just a few. Rozone shows scheduled for 2008 include Terry Fator, Merle Haggard and Brian Setzer. Additionally, Rozone Productions is one of three U.S. providers of Versa® TUBE HD lighting systems, designed by the acclaimed Element Labs. Incorporating the latest in lighting technology, these tubes have been used in award-winning production designs, affording Rozone the highest production values. Rozone is one of the world's only full-service production and promotion entertainment companies. For more information visit rozoneproductions.com. |