KISS Retrospective part 20:Carnival of Souls The Final Sessions(1997)

KISS were starting to decline after their 92/93 tour wasn't as big as they had hoped. Grunge by this point had taken over the world and Gene wanted to essentially give this kind of sound more of a go. Paul was not hugely keen on the idea but decided to as well. While the writing for this album commenced, the band would host large KISS conventions and even do Unplugged performances where Ace and Peter would join for a few songs. At this point the writing was on the wall: A reunion tour was going to happen. Paul and Gene decide that the album release would be put on hold while they did this major tour and come back afterwards with their new darker sound. However, this reunion ignited the classic lineup of KISS and made the record company weary of the album coming out. Basically, once bootlegs started to come out, they just threw it on the shelves with no promotion and that was it. No tours, nothing. This would be the final album of the nonmakeup years and Bruces true finale with the band and it went nearly completely unheard. However, with this still being an official studio release, the albim deserves another glance.

Track List

1.Hate-Right away, this album smacks you with this lower tuned dryer almost doomy sound. The band took those aspects from "Revenge" and amplified them. I really like this one the riffs are really heavy and Genes voice really fits it well.

2.Rain-I love the almost Alice In Chains feel here especially in Pauls voice I like when he uses his lower register a bit more. I also like when he releases his voice more through the simple chorus with some nice string bends.

3.Master & Slave- This is my favorite song on the album with its heavy bass oriented groove. The chorus is pretty catchy as well. I like that Bruces solos all over this album too rely on creating an atmosphere than displaying technicality its a bit different and fresh.

4.Childhoods End-This one has this more melodic yet depressing feel to it that works in parts and falls flat at 9ther moments. I really like the cleaner guitars for how sharp they are but Genes voice could us a bit of reverb to give a bit of depth to it. The chorus is something reallt different it takes a few listens to get used to. The creepy kid like chorus near the end is an interesting addition as well.

5.I Will Be There-A darker acoustice driven track that Paul sounds a bit more tune with to his style. I really like the guitars throughout but it runs just a bit too long. Overall not bad.

6.Jungle- I love groove on this one with the really heavy bass being a major highlight. The chorus also has a big feel to it thwt makes this one stand out as well. It does again, last a bit too long almost going for a more psychadelic vibe to it toward the end but it isn't bad overall.

7.In My Head-This is where the album starts to feel a bit repetitive with the overaly slow chugging feel. Its not a bad track and doesn't overstay its welcome though.

8.It Never Goes Away- Another very doomy track that actually feels alot like something Dio might have done on "Strange Highways". This is one of the beat songs on the second half of the album for sure.

9.Seduction of the Innocent-This is very different sounding for KISS with almost a dark middle eastern musical influence. Think KISS doing Godsmacks "Voodoo" and you are pretty close. Besides the more atmospheric solo, it doesn't hit as hard.

10.I Confess-I almost get a 90s Ozzy vibe from the intro of this one with a dark atmosphere to it. This track is a bit of a slog as it doesn't change a ton throughout. It lasts on these softer dark verses that seem to take awhile to get going.

11.In The Mirror-This one feels a bit more upbeat but the production feels a bit flat. If the guitars were up front a bit more this would be a juggernaut of a tune. It just doesn't quite reach the potential it could have had.

12.I Walk Alone-And for the final song, this one hits a bit of a more creative stride with Kulicks vocals and alot of reverse tracking in parts.  It takes a but to get going but its got a good flow to it. Not a bad ending track.

Overall, this album gets a 6 out of 10. Its an album where when KISS gets a good song out of this formula its a pretty damn good song. However, they are too far and few between and the album mostly melts together and overstays its welcome. It just doesn't work exactly as a KISS album per say. This would have had potential if it was a side project like if they reversed the name to SSIK or something to a wink and a nod to the members. But, in the end, it didn't really matter as the album did nothing to tarnish the band nor promote them. Ace and Peter were back and a new reunion album was now in the works...sort of.

KISS Retrospective part 19:ALIVE III(1993)

Aa the "Revenge" tour started to wrap up, the band decided it had been long enough since they released a live album since the epic "Alive II". This would be the only live album from the non makeup era not counting the unplugged one. It would also be the first of theirs to reuse songs that were featured on previous live albums. 

We get off to a very strong start with "Creatures of the Night" and the band is on full force here. Even though it is quite bittersweet personally that Eric Carr is not included, Eric Singer proves his worth as a very tight competent player esepecially adding his tight fills to a lot of the classic songs. I do wish we got more representation from the 80s records deeper cuts but its still a solid setlist nonetheless. Bruce Kulick especially is a major highlight throughout with his added flair to some of the classic songs like "Deuce" and "Detroit Rock City" but still stsying very true to what made Aces solos work so well. His sort of tribute to Hendrix in the ending version of "the star spangled banner" is a pretty cool touch as well.

Overall, I give this live album a competent 8 out of 10. While I would have liked some songs in place of the usuals, what we get is still pretty solid and this version of the band is one of the best musically. Personally. This is where the KISS live albums kind of stop for me as ALIVE IV was not my cup of tea and live albums with orchestras are not a big thing for me so I am a bit biased in that aspect. This and ALIVE II are definitely my favorites however and the band would decide to keep with this line up as they worked on their "Carnival Of Souls' record but as the reunion became a huge deal in 96', that album would become one that never got the reach it should have and that is exactly where we will pick up. 

KISS Retrospective part 18:Revenge(1992)

After Eric Carr was diagnosed with Cancer, Eric Singer who had previously played in Pauls solo band along many other greats, joined until Carr could play again. Unfortunately through the recording of their next album, Carr would pass away and Singer would officially be the drummer of KISS. The band lost a massive part of what made alot of their 80s outputs so powerful but with the release of "Revenge" in '92, the band made it clear they had to fight on and even dedicated the album to Carr. This is my favorite album Ezrin produced as it sonically is so much better than the album before it. The band also went a bit darker to combat the onslaught of Grunge at the time.

Track List

1.Unholy-The album gets off on a very heavy start with a sinister rocker thats all Gene. This song reaply brings that feeling of the Demon with Genes super gruffy vocals. The chorus also is simple.and catchy bit with that heavy oomph from the bass up in the mix. The slick production really helps boost the guitars here as well.

2.Take It Off-This is a great sleazy rocker that I would love to have heard live. The riffs are big and Paul still sounds terrific. Its a song that wouldve fit on their 80s albums but its got a heavier 90s feel to it.

3.Tough Love-I really like the verses on this song as they have this kind of 90s alternative feel to them. The chorus however feels like its missing a lot of energy and is a bit generic. Its a song where 50% is good and 50% is a bit forgettable 

4.Spit-This song has a bit more energy with a more zeppelin-esque feel too. It speeds up in the middle too which is a nice surprise but it doesn't last as much ad I wish it did. Overall, not great but not bad.

5.God Gave Rock N Roll To You II-This is the most well known song on the album. Its a reoworked cover that honestly more people probably know than the original by Argent. Its got a great huge chorus and a real nice upbeat vibe. The video in particualr features the last ever performance of Carr as Singer played on the track but was not in the video. Because of this, the song will always be felt as a tribute to him and its a great one.

6.Domino-This one has a realoy heavy ACDC feel to it and is a bit cheesy but very fun. Its another song thats total Gene and he kills it. The solo for this one really is a highlight too.

7.Heart Of Chrome-This is a heavier mid tempo track that realoy embraces the more 90s rock feel KISS are going for. Its got more sinister riff and the chorus has a pretty good hook to it.

8.Thou Shall Not-This is my favorite song on the album and one of KISS' heaviest. Bruce really rips it up on the solo as well. This one I catch myself headbanging to when i listen to it as Gene vocally goes for the throat. The guitars are also super crunchy as well.

9.Everytime I Look At You-This is a generic ballad that really never feels like its going anywhere. Its nicely produced but I dont really ever feel the need to go back to it.

10.Paralyzed-This one definitely screams early 90s with a bit of that 80s KISS feeling in its structure. The lower tuning and Gene almost sounding a bit Rob Zombie-ish give it that slick 90s edge. Not a bad tune.

11.I Just Wanna-Another Paul song that echoes a bit of "Summertime Blues" mixed with "Uh! All Night". Its a decent rocker and fun and catchy enough to please live crowds which it did when it was released.

12.Carr Jam 1981-Finally, we have an unreleased jam Carr did with Frehley back in 81 with an incredible drum solo that I wish lasted longer. Kulick overdubbed his playing over Ace's which is the only real edit done to the track. A great tribute to the Fox.

Overall, the album gets an 7.5 out of 10. This album was a huge improvement over the last with a heavier feel and a tighter tracklisting. Carr is sorely missed but Singer definitely shows his worth. While there are a few duds, theres enough to like to warrant a listen once in awhile. The album wasn't a huge seller but was enough for the band keep afloat and a decent tour for it. However, the band would dive deep into the Grunge sound as the rumblings of a reunion of the original members was beginning to shake the ground.

KISS Retrospective part 17:Hot In the Shade(1989)

After touring heavily through 1988, KISS went back into the studio in the summer of 89 to record their final album to ring out the 80s. Aiming for a more stripped back sound, the presence of keyboards has been forgotten here and with 15 songs you'd thing the band were hitting some pretty creative highs. However, this is one of the main problems with the album:it sounds like a band fatigued with a flat production and flatter writing.

Track List

1.Rise To It-Opening with some nice slide guitar which is a nice addition, this is an okay opener. Right away you can tell how much flatter this album sounds compared the the last three or four albums. Everything feels a bit too blended with eachother. The chorus is nice but feels a bit tired.

2.Betrayed-The energy on this one is pretty nice but the verses feel a bit underwhelming. Gene sounds his weakest here out of all the 80s albums. Again, a nice simple chorus but would hit harder if the production was amped up more.

3.Hide Your Heart-This is the first song on the album that I quite like with some catchy segements and the chorus, as generic as it is with the chanting, it definitely is made for a live setting.

4.Prisoner Of Love-I like the rhythm of this one but I wish the drums just sounded a tad bigger. Genes vocals work a little better on this one with a nice swagger to it. Simple but a hidden gem here.

5.Read My Body-This one feels like a track left all the way back from the "Animalize" album. The lead guitar feels buried here which is a shame as Bruce gives a damn good solo. A bit of a forgettable song honestly. It feels incomplete in parts.

6.Love's A Slap In The Face-This is personally one of my least favorite KISS songs just for how bored it sounds. I know there were some tracks that used electronic drums which, when you have Eric fucking Carr, makes no sense. Anyways, it definitely feela like they used them here. The chorus literally repeats what "hide your heart" did. Bruces leads however sound a little bit more vicious here.

7.Forever-Easily the best and most well known song here. This was KISS biggest hit since "Beth" and it deserves it. Kulicks acoustic solo is great and is something different for the band that works great here. The chorus is huge and gets stuck in your head as well. KISS, especially in the 80s, knew how to write great ballads.

8.Silver Spoon- This one has a good energy to it with Pauls vocals sounding great throughout. Its catchy and the instrumentation sounds better than on most of the album. Bruces solo is still a bit buried in the mix but its a great solo still.

9.Cadillac Dreams-KISS almost steal a bit out of Aerosmiths playbook on this track with the horn section which I love. This is a fun track with a good rhythm to it you could dance to easily.

10.King Of Hearts-This is a great melodic rocker with that good 80s pounding rhythm to it. It builds to the chorus nicely with some nice walking bass in the pre chorus. This song probably has the beat solo from Bruce on the album as well.

11.The Street Giveth and The Street Taketh Away- Featuring Tommy Thayer on electroacoustic guitar, this one is very middle of the road for me. It just feels very generic structure wise.

12.You Love Me To Hate You-This isn't a bad track though if it sounded a little bigger it would benefit from it. Pauls low vocals are a nice addition but again it feels a bit tired.

13.Somewhere Between Heaven and Hell-This is a slower tune with with some nice riffing but again it sounds a bit tired. Luckily the last two tracks pick up.a bit.

14.Little Caesar-I like the blusier feel on this one but the real draw is that finally FINALLY Eric Carr gets to sing on a studio track. After showing live that he has the voice, we finally get it here. Its a little bittersweet as a lot of material Eric and Bruce had was heavily cut. Check out Eric's album "Rockology" for what happened with alot of these songs. 

15.Boomerang-The bands one of their most tired albums with a banger and one that lets Eric and Bruce fly freely. I really wish the drums sounded like they did on "Asylum" though as they still feel a bit pushed back still. Still this is one of the highlights on the album.

Overall, this album gets a 5.5 out of 10. This is easily my least favorite KISS album for just how tired and flat it sounds. Its too oversaturated with mediocre songs which makes it  a slog to get through. There are some gems here and there but its mostly forgettable. If this album had a bigger sound i think it would be remembered at least a little fonder. The band toured heavily in 1990 on the album but this would be the end of an era. Eric Carr would be diagnosed with cancer and in 1991, one of my favorite drummers would pass away leaving behind a damn good legacy. Eric Singer would officially take the job as the band would move onto the next album in an ever changing music scene.

KISS Retrospective part 16:Crazy Nights(1988)

In 1987, Glam Metal was reaching fever pitch with bands like Bon Jovi and Whitesnake hitting extreme highs that would define their careers. Paul wanted his "Slippery When Wet" moment with the bands next record badly. He finally pulled Gene back in so his half assed writing would stop hindering the quality of their albums. They even pulled producer Ron Nevison who worled with many bands to get this album sounding as big as ever. While this album was not their biggest seller nor as big as those mentioned before, it is my favorite of the non makeup year albums and one of my favorite KISS albums period!

Track List

1.Crazy Nights-The most well known song on the album and it its 80's pop metal excellence. Its got a simple main riff but its definitely top tier arena rock with a simple shout along chorus and a good time feeling to it.

2.I'll Fight Hell To Hold You-This is the first song to show that keyboards are definitely creeping into this album but they fill the sound out great. This is a great mid tempo rocker with another ear worm of a chorus. Bruce also nails the soloing here. This album is is and Eric Carrs for the abundance of wild yet tight and precise solos and Eric playing his heart out. 

3.Bang Bang You-Another mid tempo more sleazy rocker. I love the pre chorus here it gets you in the mood for the simple yet fun chorus. Another great tune meant for the arenas of the 80s.

4.No, No, No-The most energetic track and definitely Bruces centerpiece he is all over the place here. Gene even sounds great and the bass sounds a bit grittier in the mix as well. 

5.Hell Or High Water-One of my favorites and another absolute ear worm. Its got a great build to it as well. You can't not sing to this one its so catchy.

6.My Way-The most keyboard driven song on the album that it almost rivals Van Hagar at the time. Its a great up beat track though. The production is great with some very rich keyboard sounds giving the band an over the top melodic edge that no album had to this point.

7.When Your Walls Come Down- Another harder rocker that I would love to hear live. It isn't as over the top but its a fun simple rocker.

8.Reason To Live-My favorite track on the album. Pure made for radio melodic rock at its finest. The chorus is so up beat and its honestly a great uplifting song. Its also one of my favorite KISS songs. Bruce's solo has some great emotion to it as well as the softer verses it works so well.

9.Good Girl Gone Bad-This is probably my least favorite track on the album. Its still not bad at all the chorus just doesn't have as much power as some of the others. I still enjoy it quite a bit it just doesn't hit the same as the rest of the album.

10.Turn On the Night-Paul brings a bit of power back. I know I sound like a broken record but this record is just that good to me. I love the heavier emphasis on the poo rock feeling. It captures an era thats long gone today when bands sounded alot more fun and were cheesy as hell and everyone loved it.

11.Theif In the Night-This is a great closer it reallt nails the hook in the chorus. Its another super simple mid tempo rocker but Genes voice sounds great and the build to chorus is great too.

Overall, this album is a 9.5 for me easily out of 10. The band really hit a high point of their 80s career I think with this album. It toally fit in with what everyone else was doing at the time. The band did a huge world tour throughout 1988 and even played the Monsters of Rock festival as well showing just how big they managed to still be. They still would have one more album to pull out of their perhaps second most famous line up very soon ending the 80s on a high, yet bittersweet note.

KISS Retrospective part 15:Asylum(1985)

Into 1985 and KISS with another lineup changed kept the train rolling with yet another album. The band was in the middle of the decade where new bands were popping up on literally every street corner. They had to continue to provide big powerful songs to make everyone know they were still a force to be reckoned with. Luckily with "Asylum" the song quality is a bit better than that of "Animalize".

Track List

1.King Of the Mountain-This is a great opener with Eric Carr opening up on the drums right from the start. Bruce Kulick has a great solo as well and you can tell he and eric really gelled as musician. Pauls voice is still just as strong here as well this would definitely be a great show opener.

2.Any Way You Slice It-This is one of Genes better songs from thr non makeup years as it doesn't sound as generic. Its got more power and its got a pretty good hook as well.

3.Who Wants To Be Lonely-This song has a really good melody in the chorus that would be a very prominent sound on "Crazy Nights". Its another simple yet catchy AOR type tune.

4.Trail By Fire-This is a great tune that has almost an ACDC type groove to it. Its got some great pop vibes to it especially in the vocal harmonies.

5.I'm Alive-KISS ratchet up the speed with an absolute barnstormer. Pauls soaring vocals, Erics pounding drums and Bruce showing why he is such an underrated guitar hero is all so prominent here.

6.Love's A Deadly Weapon-"I'm Alive" slides almost seemlessly into this song which is another break neck speed metal cut. Gene sings on this one which adds a bit of gruff to it. Bruce's solo is the major highlight where he really gets the spotlight as the other only guitar during the solo.

7.Tears Are Falling-This is the more hit off the album that kept KISS in heavy MTV rotation. Its got a great feel and the chorus has a very big sound to it. Its tracks like this why I love 80s rock so much.

8.Secretly Cruel-This one has a bit of that old school KISS feel to it and its a decent tune. Definitely not a highlight but for a b side its pretty decent.

9.Radar For Love-This one has a heavier bluesy feel to it i like. The chorus also has a great swagger to it that makes it more memorable as well.

10.Uh! All Night-This is such an amazing 80s feel good song. Its simple, cheesy abd very over the top bu that damn chorus. It is so catchy. It reminds me of the beastie boys "you gotta fight for your right" a little and it definitely isn't a bad thing. 

Overall, the album gets an 8.5 out of 10. This is one of 80s KISS' most solid albums. The band is slowly becoming a solid unit once again with Bruce being the shot in the arm the band needed in terms of a team player. The band would tour strictly America for this album to absolutely make a stamp on their home turf. KISS were finally hitting high points they were feeling in 78 and unlike then those times would continue to flourish now.

KISS Retrospective part 14:Animalize(1984)

After hiring on new gun Mark St. John, KISS shot back into the studio to capitalize on their rising fortunes once again. Producing themselves, "Animalize" would further solidify their popularity in the MTV generation however with Paul taking the reigns more than Gene who was extremely absent through the record, the songs lean more on Paul in terms of memorability 

Track List

1.I've Had Enough(Into The Fire)- This is a great opener and actually reminds me a bit of Dokken a bit. The soloing is very flashy as Mark was definitely more of a kamikaze type soloist. The chorus is big and the drums also sound more full here than on "Lick It Up". A great start to the album.

2.Heaven On Fire-An excellent pop metal tune. Its incredibly simple with just the right amount of sleaze to it to make it such a fun song. The main riff and chorus has a good swagger it gets stuck in your head.

3.Burn Bitch Burn-One of Genes penned songs and its honestly quite generic. Its more up beat and has some good riffing but it sticks around too long. Also the lyrics are juet terrible. Granted a lot of glam metal bands didn't write thought provoking lyrics but here it just sounds so generic.

4.Get All You Can Take-The slower pace leads to a more zeppelin-esque kind of riff with some catchy moments throughout. This one brings a bit more power with Pauls incredibly energetic vocals. The chorus falls a little flat but overall it isn't bad.

5.Lonely Is The Hunter-There is a bit more of a blues kind of feel on this one and the instruementals are great with some great tempo changes in the middle but again it feels a little derivative throughout.

6.Under The Gun-This is KISS at their full speed metal potential and the soloing is insane it reallt sends the song over the top. Its totally what makes 80s metal and 80s KISS so great when it goes completely over the top.

7.Thrills In the Night-This is my favorite song on the album and one that should be a staple on any 80s rock playlist. The solo is also my favorite on the album and its a shame as I would have loved to see more like this with Mark on future albums. Its extremelt catchy as well and a major highlight of the non makeup years.

8.While the City Sleeps-This is the best of the songs Gene sang on with a great main riff and a simple but effective chorus. The lyrics also are not as cheeay as before either.

9.Murder In High-Heels-This is a weaker closer with another slower kind of bluesy riff that flows through pretty much the entire song. It just feels sort of unfinished and half assed.

Overall, I give the album a 7.5 out of 10. The album shifts in quality quite a bit with a little over half of the album being filled with great songs and then the rest is quite forgettable. Gene phoning it in really hurt the quality for sure. However Mark St. John is a major highlight I do like his tone alot as well as Bruce Kulick who played on a few tracks. St. John would barely last as the tour was about to start, he developed a bad type of arthritis that kept him from playing live. This is where Bruce Kulick came in officially as the band yet again was getting higher and higher and finally had a lineup that would last through the rest of the decade. 

KISS Retrospective part 13: Lick It Up(1983)

KISS had ended a chapter and begun another in 1983. Paul and Gene decided that it was time for the make up to go as fans were leaving in droves. They figured it would attract at least curiousity but their sound would mark a huge change here as well. With Eric Carrs masterful drumming and Vinnie Vincents more shredding capabilities, KISS would evolve into a more straightforward heavy/glam metal band. Thus with the release of "Lick It Up", KISS' non make-up era (and my favorite era) would begin.

Track List

1.Exciter-A very energetic heavy opener that rivals "Creatures". Rick Derringer actually plays the solo here and he really tears it up. The chorus is awesome and Paul is on his A game here as well.

2.Not For the Innocent-Genes more mid tempo sleazy rock tune with a huge chorus to it. The vocals are really good here as well as some nice big riffs as well. Vinnies solo is awesome here with alot of tremolo to it.

3.Lick It Up-The track(and amazingly weird music video) that would put the band back on the map. Its so simple yet a total fun time. Very catchy and gets stuck in my head anytime i hear it. Its an essential party rock song.

4.Young and Wasted-The energy ramps back up with another harder hitting track. Even though gene sings it, the live version with eric carr i prefer more. However, this is still a powerhouse of a track. Definitely one thats made for the live setting.

5.Gimme More-One of KISS' heaviest songs. This is borderline speed metal excellence. Pauls soaring vocals are as strong as theyve ever been and the solo is really nailed as well. Easily the most intense song on the album.

6.All Hells breakin loose-This song has a more bluesy feel to it with Paul almost rapping the first few verses. Another insanely catchy tune plucked right from the decadence of the 80s.

 7.A Million To One-This is the closest to a ballad on the album and its still pure 80s melodic rock. It almost borders on AOR as well which I love.

8.Fits Like A Glove-Another break neck tune with Gene spitting pure cheesy lyrics but fun nonetheless. Its another one thats got a ton of power behind it.

9.Dance All Over Your Face-This is the only song that feels a bit like a throwaway. The power just isnt there and it doesnt feel as exciting. The solo spots are pretty good though.

10.And On The 8th Day-This is sort of the anthem on the album. Its very cheesy but its not a bad tune. The main riff doesn't do much for me but the chorus has a big feel to it.

Overall, This album gets a solid 9 out of 10. While not as solid side to side as "Creatures of the Night", most of the songs are fantastic and breathe new life into the band. This could easily have been the death knell for the band but in fact it was a breath of fresh air. However, even with the highly successful 83 tour,  Vincent and and Paul specifically were at eachothers throats and he was out. As their popularity began to build once more, it was time to find yet a new lead guitarist.

KISS Retrospective Part 12:Creatures Of The Night(1982)

KISS were at the lowest of their career. The misguided attempt of a concept album, the exit of their longtime lead guitarist and even Gene losing sight trying to break into hollywood was slowly poisoning the band. In order to get their fans back the band new they had to recraft their sound from the ground up. They had to be bigger and badder than they ever were before....but how? Well to start off, the band tried out multiple guitarists who are featured here including Robben Ford, Steve Farris and one Vinnie Vincent who specifically played a bulk of the solos. The band then released what would be their heaviest album entitled "Creatures Of The Night"

Track List

1 Creatures Of The Night-Starting off with Erics thunderous drums, this tune starts off with a bang. Right away you can tell the drums have never sounded so powerful and the guitars have a real bite to them. Pauls voice is incredible here also and in subsequent sped up versions he does as well. This song features the only solo from Steve Farris and personally its one of the best on the album I love the tone.

2.Saint and Sinner-This song slows things down to a dirtier heavy blues kind groove. Genes voice sounds great and the chorus is catchy as hell. Vinnies solo spot isnt too bad either.

3.Keep Me Comin- This song kinda forshadows the full blown glam metal band KISS would turn into soon enough with its Zeppelin esque main riff and Pauls more high pitch vocals. Its again slower but its got a reao heavy groove to it.

4.Rock N Roll Hell-Easily my favorite song the album. This is a total ear worm from the verses through the chorus and the riffs and drums sound so big it really has everything for a great tune. The bass cuts sharply through as well which i like alot.

5.Danger-One of the faster songs on the album and this one pulls no punches. Its extremely energetic with everyone giving it 110%. The bass here is played by Jimmy Haslip and he does a very tight job. The solo is great and the pre chorus just has so much power and energy behind it. Great song.

6.I Love It Loud- The most well known song on the album and its a great anthemic tune. The drums especially are so powerful as well they really make a statement. Genes vocal lines are very catchy and the chorus just begs for a live audience.

7.I Still Love You-KISS' darkest ballad and my favorite as well. Pauls vocals are a major highlight and the solos across the board are incredible.

8.Killer-Love this one as well a total early "KISS does Speed Metal" type tune. Genes vocals again are killer and the riffs are crushing. I love the chorus and how sleazy it kind of sounds as well.

9.Ending with probably the heaviest song on the album. The chorus riff is the heavieat probably since "God Of Thunder". This one also begged for a crowd to sing along with it. Hell of a closer.

Overall, this album is a 10 out of 10 for me. It has everything I want from a KISS album and should have really put them back on top. The songs are all great and the production is so sharp and big. Unfortunately this would be their worat tour to date when Paul realized how to get peoples attention:Time to take the makeuo off. 

KISS Retrospective part 11:Music from "The Elder"(1981)

After a relatively successful tour for the "Unmasked" album especially in Australia, KISS realized crowds were starting to dwindle as well as album sales.Aces relationship with the band was becoming super fractured as well now and was looking for a way out soon. Paul and Gene meanwhile were looking to get more critical praise so they decided to try a very left field option: a concept album. The olan was simple(at least it seemed to be): Get Bob Ezrin in to produce, create a flowing story and a film to conicide with its release. The film would have been called "The Elder" and the album would be entitled "Music From The Elder". Gene came up with a barebones story of a young boy chosen to fight evil threatening the universe. Its as basic as it gets but they were intend on making it work. However, this would be the album that would nearly kill them.

Track List

1.Fanfare-A quick intro track and quite bizarre to hear from KISS. Its basically this quick medeval sounding track to set some atmosphere. Nothing too amazing but doesnt overstay its welcome.

2.Just A Boy-This track right away shows where the band was going with a big kind of Rock Opera feel to with a classical sense. Pauls vocals are good but the lyrics like most of the album feel severly underdeveloped. 

3.Odyssey-The album does flow quite well i can give it that. This song has a more epic feel to it that i do actually kind of enjoy. If the band would have done a type of rock opera tour i feel this one would have been cool with an orchestra behind it.

4.Under The Rose-I do feel like this song has almost a bit of a pink floyd feel to it but it repeats too much for being nearly 5 minutes. The chorus is pretty cool with Genes more epic sounding vocals. I do wish the drums had more depth to them for this being Erica first full length debut.

5.Dark Light-This one while a bit more rocking doesn't do much for me as Ace sounds completely checked out of it. This one is very incomplete feeling. Aces solo still is pretty good on it though

6.A World Without Heroes-One of the best songs on the album with a really nice atmosphere to it as well. The only issue, again, is the story just feels incomplete like where exactly are we in it at this point.  But as a song its great and Aces emotional solo is quite the centerpiece.

7.The Oath-Easily the heaviest song here with the band giving it all they have. I just wish Erics drums sounded bigger like they did on "Creatures" later on especially the double bass. There are some great vocal harmonies as well. This is usually the song fans point to as the highlight.

8.Mr. Blackwell-This seems to be the villains theme and its not bad if not a little cheesy. I do like the heavy bass and al.ost bluesy feel but the guitars and drums just feel a bit flat in the production. Not bad.

9.Escape From The Island-Straight into a tight energetic instrumental. If only the album had a bit more of this energy i feel like it would be a bit more memorable.

10.I-The energetic closer to the album and again the lyrics could use some reworking. The dualing vocals from paul and Gene are pretty nice as well. Its not as epic as a closer to a concept album should be, but it gets its point across.

Overall, I give the album a 6 out of 5. While the weakest effort from the band so far, it definitely has its moments. Its also a concept album so its really only enjoyable all the way through. However, because it seems that the story was rushed, that the whole concept sort of falls apart. Give it another year or two and this could have actually been a very solid release. As it stands though, its alright but alot of missed opportunities. This is the only KISS album that did not have a tour and Ace called it quits soon after and the band spent time writing their next album while trying out new guitarists. Little did fans know but the band would come back with their heaviest release and a step in the right direction...

KISS Retrospective part 10:Unmasked(1980)

KISS entered into 1980 essentially as a 3rd of a band. Peter Criss was officially gone and Anton Fig came back to provide his studio drum work. This confused many fans as Criss still appeared on the artwork and even in the video for "Shandi". The album that was released delves harder into pop territory than ever. This created more short term fans yet alienated long time fans. However, is it as bad as alot fans say or, like Dysnasty, is this one a hidden gem?        

Track List

1.Is That You?-Opening up with a mid tempo pop rocker and one that I actually enjoy. The main riff has a nice groove to it and still has enough bite to make it on any rock playlist. There is some really nice poppy melodies that lead into a catchy as hell chorus as well. A decent poppy opener.

2.Shandi-This one became a minor hit in Australia and is a decent pop ballad. Musically, its got some great stuff in the background with some nice acoustics. This one you could definitely dance to as well.

3.Another Signature Ace tune to add to the library. Its so catchy and his vocals sound great here. The energy is definitely there as well. The solo is a great upbeat one as hell that gets stuck in your head. A major highlight on the album.

4.Naked City-A nice rocker with Gene singing and a darker chorus riff. The verses have this slower tempo to them and Gene trying some higher range vocals definitely is a nice touch to the song. Its simple but another pretty catchy song.

5.What Makes the World Go 'Round?- This is one of the lesser tracks on the album. It has KISS' older rock n roll feel but it feels lile it could sound bigger in terms of its poppier tendencies. It just doesn't stick in my head as the other songs. Its not bad just a little generic.

6.Tomorrow-This one brings some of that energy back with one of my favorites on the album. It feels kinda like "KISS does Cheap Trick" which certainly isnt a bad thing. Its got a big hook that feels so 1980s its great. The solo is great even if.it doesnt last long. Definitely a major highlight from this album.

7.Two Sides Of the Coin-This is a great mid tempo rocker with some really good energy again especially for the chorus. The overdriven guitars really rock too. I love the middle part when the guitars get really.melodic as well its actually kind of unexpected but it works.

8.She's So European-While the name is kind of cheesy, the song overall isn't bad. Its a typical Gene sleazy rocker but with some keyboard in the backgroound which is a nice tough. Its again a simple power pop rocker but its pretty fun.

9.Easy As It Seems-This is another super underrated KISS song with Paul giving it his signature powerful vocals against a really poppy bassline and an intensley catchy chorus. Definitely one that cant be missed.

10.Torpedo Girl-The bassline to this song is pretty damn good with some interesting rhythm segments to it. Its detinitely the most out there song on the album. Its poppy but it has a creativity to it. Its one of the tunes here than takes a few listens to get into.

11.You're All I Want- This song kinda falls flat for me it just doesn't carry the same energy most of the album has. It isn't bad but it feels like it again could be more. The chorus just feels unfinished especially.

Overall, Unmasked gets an 8.5 out of 10. While continuing on their path into Pop rock, KISS still for the most part crafted a solid album of memorable power pop excellence. While it may have came out at the wrong time as bands like Sabbath and ACDC were making big heavy comebacks, today it seems more fans look at it with an open mind for the fun album it is. With a tour coming up, however, the band needed some new blood. Enter my favorite member of KISS, Eric Carr. This would be the start to the band becoming heavier but not without one more misguided step in their career.

KISS Retrospective part 9:Dynasty(1979)

After a massive tour and each member releasing their individual solo albums(i'll get to those eventually), KISS shot back into the studio with some new ideas and some unfortunate setbacks. Peter Criss would only commit to one song on vocals and drums as his relationship with the band was severly fractured at this point. Enter session drummer Anton Fig who played on every song except "Dirty Livin". While this may seem like a huge issue, I honestly think this album, Disco influence and all, is actually quite a hidden gem in their discography.

Track List

1.I Was Made For Loving You- This song was a huge hit with its huge disco influence as Paul had been hanging around Studio 54 alot at the time. Its honestly a total earworm of a tune and totally a product of his time. The poppy bass with Figs energetic tight drumming really works and the chorus is just classic pop era KISS.

2.2000 Man-One of many tunes Ace sings and its a really rockin rendition of the Rolling Stones tune. Aces voice sounds great here and the guitars have some real bite to them as well.

3.Sure Know Something-This is a great AOR type track with a big bombastic chorus and some damn good bass lines. Its got a great pop sensibility to it that gets it stuck in your head.

4.Dirty Livin-My favorite Peter Criss penned tune even though his drumming os quite weak on it. It also has a bit of a disco feeling but holy hell is it catchy. You can't help but tap your foot to this one. The bass sounds great too and is the big highlight of the song.

5.Charisma-One of the very few penned Gene songs on the album but its a damn good sleazy rocker with Genes more laid back slithering vocals. The chorus kinda catches you off guard a bit at first but it fits the song the more you hear it. Its another damn gpod catchy song.

6.Magic Touch- One of Pauls most underrated tunes he wrote. The main riff has this dark magical feel to it with some heavy primal like drums during the vocals and this giant chorus that screams for a live audience to sing along with it. Truely one of my favorite mid tempo tunes from the band.

7.Hard Times-Yet another Ace tune and a damn hard rocking one with his vocals having a real raw quality to them. Another absolute gem on the album and one of the heaviest chorus on a KISS album.

8.X-Ray Eyes-The second and only other song Gene sings. This is the closest to get to their old rock n roll roots and has this darker kinda riff to the chorus. Its another catchy tune that borders on pop rock and hard rock.

9.Save Your Love-A very bombastic closer with Ace giving it everything hes got. The chorus hits so hard its impressive how noone talks about this song. The solo is absolutely amazing as well, easily the best on the album.

Overall, this album gets a 9.5 out of 10. I am so shocked this album doesn't get the love it deserves. The hard rocking moments are still there but the pop rock influence is very prominent and works so damn well. It feels alot like Ace took the reigns for alot of the songs present as well. There is definitely a perfect balance here between pop and rock. "I Was Made For Loving You" was again a huge hit with the band going on another huge tour, this time noticing a more family friendly crowd watching. Peter criss couldnt take anymore though and by the end of 1979, he was out. The band scrambled as their popularity in their hardcore fanbase started to dissipate and in 1980 they would see themselves shoot for an.egen poppier feel.

KISS Retrospective part 8:ALIVE II(1977)

After "Love Gun", KISS embarked on their biggest tour with the biggest stage show up to that point. Recorded once again on multiple dates, "ALIVE II" featured exclusively songs from their last three albums as to not repeat tracks. To fill up a full four sides, however, the band hastily recorded a few new songs as well.

"ALIVE II" captures the classic lineup at their absolute peak in the live setting. From this bombastic version of "Detroit Rock City" to the more raw iterations of "Christine Sixteen" and "I Want You". The version of "God Of Thunder" here is the centerpiece of the album. It sounds so evil and the small drum interlude in the middle adds to it as well. The only real complaint I have is that a few of my favorite tracks off "Rock and Roll Over" are not on here and this album is clearly overdubbed again. However, the bigger sound here is warranted as KISS were playing to huge crowds at the time.

The biggest treat are the studio tracks especially ones like the heavy as hell "All American Man" which is one of the tracks that features the legendary Bob Kulick on lead guitar. He also plays solos on "Rockin in the USA" and "Larger Than Life" as well which both are great heavy rockers. Up next is "Rocket ride" which had to have clearly influenced early Pantera albums like "Metal Magic". The song is pure Ace and a real highlight. Finally we have a cover of "Anyway You Want It" ands its not bad. Its got great energy and follows the original quite faithfully.

Overall, this album gets a solid 9 out of 10. The band is at the height of their golden era and really captures some of their best songs here. The studio tracks are also a welcome addition as they really dont feel half baked. This would be as high as the band got as they began to splinter and by the end of their next album cycle they would be down a member.

KISS Retrospective part 7:Love Gun(1977)

 

By 1977, KISS were on top of the world after finally breaking big just two years prior. While some members were starting to show some signs of burnout, others began to really flourish musically. "Love Gun" was released at the apex of KISS' studio outputs in terms of popularity. This was also the time they were marketed in everything from comic books,action figures and lunchboxes to your very own KISS radio. However, does the album suffer from burnout? Or is the music still just as good as the image of the band?                                                                                                                                                             Track List

 1.I Stole Your Love-My all time favorite KISS song! The main riff is so good and its really a great album opener with grrat verses and a powerhouse chorus. The production it seemed that Kramer went more bass and drum heavy with the snare really standing out in this one. A perfect opener in my eyes.                                                                   

2.Christine Sixteen-A great little pop rock number that you...probably couldn't write today. Love the touch of Piano in the background as well. This one is very much in the vein of classic early KISS.

3.Got Love For Sale-A great sleazy rocker and one where Genes voice really shines. This is one where the bass really sounds forward in the mix and I dont mind it as it gives the song a bit of a heavier edge. Another powerful Chorus here as well and the album is three for three.     

4.Shock Me- And finally, Ace is giving his time fully in the spotlight on vocals. This song just screams coolness. Aces swaggering vocals may not be as developed as they would be on his solo album and later KISS songa but dammit its still a great song. His solo really is amazing as well as the memorable as hell riff.       

5.Tomorrow and Tonight-KISS delivers another throwback rocker with a very bubblegum rock feel similar to a band like The Sweet. A simple but fun tune

6.Love Gun-An awesome title track. I love the busier bassline here and the solo kicks ass. This is a song thats made for a live setting.

7.Hooligan- Very similar in style and structure as "Baby Driver" from the previous album. This one however doesn't hit as hard or is as memorable personally.

8.Almost Human- One of the hidden gems on this album. A really heavy riff with some good shuffled drumming with Simmons vocals sounding exceptional. It sounds so different from anything they had done before even with almost a psychadelic kind of vibe.

9.Plaster Caster-One of the bands best straight head rockers with some really heavy bass and a good sleazy feel to it.

10.Then She Kissed Me- This is the song that absolutely falls flat for me though. It just has a very generic feel and isnt a great closer. Just kinda leaves the album on a stale note.

Overall I give this album an 8.5 out of 10. Besides one clunker, this is a fun solid hard rock album and KISS knew it as they went out all through 77/78 and toured relentlessly culiminating in what I feel is their best live album...ALIVE II. This would however be the last full studio album with all 4 original members as burn out would slowly settle in.

KISS Retrospective part 6:Rock and Roll Over(1977)

Kiss were riding high at the end of 1976 as they entered the studio for fifth studio album in roughly three years. This time with Eddie Kramer producing, the band would do a little backtracking from their last album to their core hard rock sound. 

Track List

1.I Want You- This song catches you off guard with its soft opening but right away hits you with its swaggering hard rocking riffs front and center. The big highlight is Stanley and Frehleys dualing bluesy soloes. The guitars sound razor sharp here as well as the rest of the album.

2.Take Me- A major favorite for me. This one is a hard energetic rocker with some great shuffled drumming from Criss as well. The chorus is also catchy as hell and always gets stuck in my head. Its simple but oh so effective.

3.Calling Dr. Love- The most well known track on the album and with Gene singing it reallt has that good sleazy factor. The chorus is classic with the kinda laid back background vocals. Pure 70s hard rocking excellence.

4.Ladies Room-This one definitely feels like it was cut from the same cloth as "Dressed To Kill" but way more beefed up thanks to the legendary Eddie Kramer. It keeps the energy the album has going  at a very consistent pace with KISS' typical rock n roll throwback feeling. 

5.Baby Driver- This song has a really great groove and Criss' more raspy vocals really fit it. The pre chorus riffs sound so big and Aces bluesy string bends really give this song a heavy vibe as well.

6.Love 'Em and Leave 'Em-Another catchy simple rocker in the vein of "Ladies Room". This may be the least memorable song on the album for me but it still isn't bad by a long shot. Its just one that repeats alot. The solo however is a highlight with Ave going absolutely mad.

7.Mr. Speed- My favorite track on the album with a great upbeat groovy riff and catchy vocal lines. The chorus especially makes this song so infectious. Its also got one of my favorite Ace solos as well. 

8.See You In Your Dreams- Kiss go for yet another straight rocker with some nice gang vocals on the chorus. Couple yet another powerful solo and you got another great tune especially this late into the album.

9.Hard Luck Woman-We get a slow down more ballad type track with Paul handing Peter vocal duties again. It seems he wanted to spawn Beth part 2 but it didn't quite happen. However, I like this one more with the acoustic guitars and bass, it feels more like a band effort. I feel like it still matches the album with having an energy to it.

10.Makin' Love- THIS is how Destroyer should have ended. This song is pure 70's hard rock with a fast riff and Paul screaming and crooning his way around some of classic KISS' most ferocious riffs. However, it still has that KISS groove to it to keep it from going full on 70s metal. I really like the acoustic guitars before the chorus hits too its a nice touch. Ace again is a major highlight here with his solos. Easily one of KISS' best closers.

Overall, Rock and Roll Over easily gets a 9.5 out of 10. This is my favorite album of their 70's outputs just for its sheer consistency and quality. The songs that rock really rock and the one ballad is nice and doesn't overstay its welcome. Frehley is the major highlight here even though he had zero songwriting credits, his soloing is top notch. Kramers production also really hit the nail on the head with how full the drums and guitars really sound. The album wasn't as high profile as "Destroyer" but it still kept the band in the limelight. However, it would be the next album that really made KISS a true cultural phenomenon.

KISS Retrospective part 5:Destroyer(1976)

With the success of "ALIVE!", KISS were about to enter the mainstream in a big way. Now with a little bit of money, the band joined up with Alice Cooper producer Bob Ezrin. What Ezrin would do in his recording and writing for the band would more than catapult them to superstardom. It also mark the beginning of another trilogy of classic albums before the gigantic "ALIVE II". However, as a whole how well does Destroyer hold up?

     Track List

1. Detroit Rock City- Right away, you can tell KISS are back and bigger with the extended opening of someone cruising down the road right into their definitive opening track. With the callback vocals, Genes awesome bassline and a great melodic yet simple solo, this song has it all. Even as the studio version, the production is done extremely well with  the bass drums and guitar in equal volume and all sounding very full.                              

                 

 2.King Of The Nighttime World- the band launches right into a great pop rock tune. This is another song that sounds absolutely huge and is very catchy. 

3.God Of Thunder- Three for three so far and this is easily one of KISS' best songs bar bone. A heavy groove and Genes wicked dark vocals this one is pure 70s heavy metal! Even the solo has this very dark feel i like and feels very different for anything else theyve done.           

4.Great Expectations-This one never hit me right. Its got alot of an orchestral feel but the vocals feel off and it feels like such a left turn from the rest of the album besides "Beth". It just doesn't me like most of the other songs.

5.Flaming Youth-Another terrific pop rock number that shouldve been a hit. Its got a great uplifting vibe to it and this great pumping old school rock n roll feel.

6.Sweet Pain- This one also felt alittle flat to me as well it just doesnt exactly feel like it goes anywhere. I will say the acoustic guitar additions are a nice tough but it just does't have the power like most of the album has so far.

7.Shout It Out Loud-Another major song for the band. They seriously fire on all cylinders here with such a great chrous with piano giving it some extra depth. Overplayed but also welcome.

8.Beth-This is the mega hit from the album ironically sang by Criss. Its an okay ballad where i feel myself always drawn to the actual orchestration as there is alot of great sounds going on in the background. 

9.Do You Love Me-Personally, this song isnt bad but its not a great closer an album this colossul deserves. Its got a more laid back sleazy vibe to it that i do dig but is not a hard hitting tune. 

Overall, and I know ill get shit for this, I give "Destroyer" a 6.5 out of 10. While the songs that are good on this album are absolutely great, it feels too soft and disjointed to be considered a real rock juggernaut as a whole to me anyways. Regardless, the hits spawned from this album really helped KISS propel themselves even further and later in '76 they would sort of go back to their roots..

KISS Retrospective part 4:ALIVE(1975)

By 1975, KISS were facing near exctinction. While they built up a good following in the live circuit, their albums failed to sell big numbers. They just couldn't translate exactly what made them so hot live. The idea was then to record a live album. Essentially four sides of KISS' then most well known songs "live". The band recorded multiple shows including ones in Detroit and Cleveland for what would be at the time, their biggest album.

The album boasted mostly the best of the best from the first three releases including incredible renditions of songs like "Black Diamond", "Hotter Than Hell" and even a killer extended version of "100,000 years". This would also produce their first hit, the live rendition of "rock n roll all nite" which is the version that is played on every classic rock station. The songs especially from "Dressed To Kill" sound alot better here with alot more power behind them. The production, though dubbed to enhance the experience and tighten up live mess ups, still leaves enough to believe that this is what a perfect 70s KISS show may have sounded like.

Overall, this album I give an 8.5 out of 10. Theres a few songs I wouldve loved here in place of others but this album is really what made the double live album a huge deal. It essentially spawned the idea that when you record one, youve made it. Thin Lizzy, UFO, Cheap Trick and plenty of others would make major career highlights with this format and for KISS really did pioneer it for hard rock and heavy metal going forward. 

KISS retrospective-part 3:Dressed To Kill(1975)

Barely over a year since KISS released their debut, the band was in dire straights. Casablanca Records was out of money and the band though a hot commodity live, were selling little records. It was so desperate that for their 3rd album Neil Bogart, the head of their label, produced as they couldn't hire a producer. This album would produce some of KISS' best known songs and its tour would finally help pay off their dues.

Track List

1.Room Service-A faster rocker opening up the album. The production right away feels a bit less exciting where every instrument feels a bit...thin. However this is a decent opener that im sure live was quite powerful. 

2.Two Timer-This one slows down the tempo to a bit of a bluesy rock feel. The chorus is pretty catchy as well with a nice swagger to it. This one has a bit of a heavier feel to it as well.

3.Ladies In Waiting-This one feels like its a bit empty like the tempo never got to where it really wanted to go by the chorus. Just feels a bit like its lacking power. This one has always felt a little forgettable to me.

4.Getaway-The energy goes up a bit here but the guitars still sound a bit flat. Another song im sure benefited in the live scene. The chorus I will say is pretty damn catchy though and the solo sounds great.

5.Rock Bottom-Opening with some extended acoustic guitar playing, this one launches into the hardest rocking tune so far. The energy feels higher than the previous few tracks. This is one of the highlights I tend to throw out when this album is mentioned.

6.C'mon and Love Me-This is, to me, the standout track on the album. Pauls vocals are very catchy and I love Ace's high string bends it just has the DNA of a great KISS tune.

7 Anything For My Baby-At first, the gang vocals sound really off but as the song progresses they sound a lot better fitted. Its a pretty catchy pop rock number but its one that took a few listens for me to get into. Its definitely another highlight.

8.She-This one steals some of the heaviness from the last two albums with a real good main riff. This one could have easily been on Hotter than Hell. There is some great vocal harmonization going on as well. 

9.Lover Her All I Can-This one has a good upbeat riff to it and I can feel that if the production wasnt as thin, it would pack alot more powerful. As it is though its a pretty decent track especially this far into the album. 

10.Rock and Roll All Nite-The one KISS song im sure noone can ever listen to again its so overplayed. Well the live version anyways. Listening to it more critically there is some interesting things going on such as Genes busy bassline and Ace's solo will always be the best part. A good song to end the album no matter how many times its been beaten into our heads.

Overall, the album gets a 7 out of 10. This one personally is the weakest out of the first three records. The album doesnt start to really sink in until about 4 songs in. The production also just feels incredibly thin and takes away what could make some of the lesser songs have more staying power. However, the songs that are good are VERY good and make the album still worth a listen for those tracks alone. Now with album three under their belt, the band figured in order to really make a mark in the industry it was time to bring the excitement of the live show to wax and here is where the major turning point for the band would happen.

KISS Retrospective part 2:Hotter Than Hell (1974)

Not even a year later in the fall of 1974, KISS kept the flame going with their sophmore album Hotter Than Hell. Boasting 10 tracks that were both carry overs from the previous albums sessions as well as new tracks, this album right away felt like something way different from their first.

Track List

1.Got To Choose- Right away this album feels alot heavier than the first. The very bassy and grungy production is very welcome. This track is a slower rocker but has this sludgy live vibe about it I really like. It doesn't hit as hard as "Strutter" but its  got that heavy yet accessible feeling in spades.

2.Parasite-The abosolute highlight on this album. The frantic feel of the main riff always hits hard. I always got heavy Budgie vibes from this song with the bass riff following the guitars close. Genes voice also fits the tune very well with a simple yet effective chorus. Ace was apparently suppose to sing this one originally which wouldve been awesome to hear. 

3.Goin' Blind- this song goes for a more ballad type vibe but again everything has this growl to it that really gives it an edge. Not an amazing tune but not bad by any means. The solo however, kicks alot of ass.

4.Hotter Than Hell-The classic title track that has some great sounding guitars and this simple but very catchy chorus. Ace's raw soloing and genese bass playing are top notch here as well.

5.Let Me Go, Rock N Roll-Another high energy absolute classic. The chorus is just made for the live stage especially. Another highlight for Ace's swaggering hard rocking soloing. Also love the sound of Petrs drums here they sound so big.

6.All The Way-Side two has a lot of deeper cuts opening with this one. Very simple like the title track in structure but again with this big chorus that gets you hooked after a few listens. This is total oldschool hard rock.

7.Watchin' You-Arguably the second or third heaviest song on the album. The sludgy dirty feeling here is nearly unmatched by any other tune on the album. There is alot of great riffing and the vocals feel so raw. This is one especially that needs to be listened to on a full stereo.

8.Mainline-Another more kind of 50s inspired rocker which totally couldve been a radio hit at the time. Peters vocals work very well for it. Again, simple but effective!

9.Comin' Home- A sludgy yet upbeat rocker. I remember first hearing this and not being so much into it. However, after hearing it on my stereo it hits alot harder and is another one that would do very well live.

10.Strange Ways-the band ends the album with a darker riff heavy rocker that pulls no punches. This is another one of my favorite tunes on the album for how dirty it sounds. Ace's flanged out solo is another major highlight here too and really showcases his playing. 

Overall, This one gets a 9.5 out of 10. Not as memorable in the sense as their debut but a whole lot heavier. This album is bursting with hidden gems and flows just a bit better. Unfortunately at the time the sales on this one fizzled quite fast but it has become a fan favorite for big and casual fans alike. With the band not quickly becoming a radio hit and their lable Caseblanca coming closer to sinking, they would give it one more studio effort before cutting their losses and daring to try even riskier moves.