music review
"You wanted the best and you got the best. The hottest band in the land + Kiss!" It's been nearly 35 years since this classic Kiss introduction kicked off "Alive!," prompting the costumed creatures to burst into a spirited version of "Deuce." Kiss returns to the band's legendary 1970s form with the old-school sounding "Sonic Boom." Triumphantly recovering from the disappointing "Psycho Circus," Kiss sheds the life support and serves up plenty of electrifying rock arrangements.
"Modern Day Delilah" initiates the rock explosion with Paul Stanley sounding 20 years younger as he belts out the vocals with gusto and zeal. Gene Simmons shines on "Russian Roulette," displaying the commanding vocals he once did on past classics like "Cold Gin" and "Calling Dr. Love." The band keeps the intensity high by blazing through the infectious party anthem "Never Enough." It's basically Poison's "Nothin' But a Good Time," only with more muscle and attitude.
Without original members Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, this isn't the same band that belted out stadium rock anthems like "Detroit Rock City," "Shout It Out Loud" and "Black Diamond."
However, Stanley and Simmons ooze enough musical presence to carry the new material with the assistance of Tommy Thayer on lead guitar and Eric Singer on drums. Stanley took over the production responsibilities for "Sonic Boom," capturing the original spirit and energy of the original Kiss lineup.
Unfortunately, not all the new material sounds like vintage Kiss. Radio-friendly tunes like "Stand" and "All for the Glory" seem more suited to be included on Stanley's last solo album. "If it's too loud, you're too old," sings Stanley on "Hot and Cold." Obviously, Kiss and its army of fans aren't too old for rock 'n' roll.
October 30, 2009