My Thoughts on KISS Today

What I think about KISS continuing in the make-up without the original members:
I have no problem with it.  As it is, I've been a fan longer then the original pairing was together and have already seen many member changes within the band.  Certainly, I love the original line-up, but I was able to immediately embrace Eric Carr as the "first replacement".  Perhaps that's a tip of the hat to Carr who made the idea of transition possible.  On the same token, I think had Vinnie Vincent been the "first replacement character" I may not have adopted him the same way.  Personality means a great deal to the KISS characters in my opinion.  Kulick, Singer & Thayer all bring something to the table whereas I was never a fan of Mark St. John either.

What I think about the KISS merchandise monster:
I'm thrilled by it.  If I have the money and want to spend it on a cool piece of merchandise I can.  I can choose not to buy it either.  I'm happy for the choice.

What I think about Ace & Peter returning to the band today:
I was thrilled by the reunion, but a return today would signal the end of the band for me.  I simply think the four original members simply cannot get along well enough to continue as KISS.  Besides,  I thought the reunion would be simply that, a reunion, then a return to the "Revenge" line-up.  I would've been completely satisfied with that.

What I think about GSFG:
I think it was a good career move.  I think it created a new fan base for the band and for Gene and his family.  I think new fans would probably watch it over long time fans, but I've no evidence either way.  What's interesting to me is that when I speak to other KISS fans, the GSFG show doesn't come up in conversation.  Perhaps, that's a statement onto itself.

What I think about the 40th year anniversary:
I'm looking forward to some really exciting events.  KISS has always delivered, we'll see what comes this time around.

What I think about paying $1250 for a KISS concert ticket or $3500 for a KISS Kruise:
If I had the money, no problem.  The reality for most fans is the cost of seeing and or meeting the band has become out of reach.  I'm a family guy now, so the idea of taking everyone to the concert or a meet and greet would be the same investment as planning a family trip; not likely to compete with a trip to Disney.


What I think about a "Revenge" era reunion:
Personally, I'd love it, but I also understand that this is not an arena tour event (on it's own).  When, not if it happens, it'll be on the KISS Kruise or a KISS Konvention or even perhaps at a KISS restaurant opening.  Gene, Eric and Bruce has already played together as part of Gene Simmons' All Star Band, so at some point I see an event that will have the said three and Paul together.

What I think about my kids becoming KISS fans:
I'm overjoyed.  I introduced KISS to them, but it's up to them how much they decide to embrace it.  Presently RNRAN and IWMFLU are the kid's favorite songs.  I giggle every time I hear them singing them in the car.  Cash loves the costumes.

What I think are my favourite KISS moments:
KISS meets the Phantom of the Amusement Park, KISS on "Kid's are People too", HITS tour Toronto C.N.E. (if you were there, you know why), Paul Stanley solo tour, KISS on "IDOL", KISS Konvention, KISS Revenge Tour rehersal Toronto Phoenix Nite Club, taking my daughter Stephanie to Sonic Boom tour, photographing KISS from the Press Pit, meeting Paul Stanley during his Phantom of the Opera run, participating in the Detroit Rock City filming, Photographing Paul Stanley for his Aboutface video, KISS on "Solid Gold", 1st Reunion concert I attended, Eric Singer meeting my daughter Lola Grace when she was 1 year old, Front Row HITS tour London, ON.