PodKISSt/THE KISS ROOM!

On this edition of PodKISSt we celebrate the 3^rd anniversary of the KISS Coffeehouse with content you won’t hear elsewhere! Once again, Mike and Geoff made the trek down to Myrtle Beach for the annual celebration that has become the Woodstock of the KISS Army! They got the latest scoop on things to come from KISSonline webmaster Keith Leroux, met the folks working behind-the-scenes at the Coffeehouse, and best of all… they got an exclusive interview with KISS drummer ERIC SINGER! Many thanks to Eric, Keith, and everyone at the Coffeehouse for making this another great celebration of all things KISS, to Ken for the fantastic artwork, and to Geoff and Mike for making PodKISSt proud!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 52:56 — 60.6MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

In 1987, the Space Ace returned to airwaves and concert stages with his brand new band, Frehley’s Comet. On this edition of PodKISSt, we’re joined by Tod Howarth, keyboardist, guitarist, songwriter, and erstwhile Frehley’s Comet member. Tod shares insights from an impressive career playing alongside artists like Ace, Cheap Trick, and Ted Nugent. Plus, he treats us to an EXCLUSIVE acoustic rendition of the Comet classic “Calling to You,” recorded just for you… the PodKISSt listeners! Tod, you rock! (Check out www.todhowarth.com for more news and info.)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:05:37 — 75.1MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

It took KISS 2 years to release their 1st live record. So we here at PodKISSt figured “It’s year 2 for us… time to go live!” With a little help from our friends, we were able to make our 1st live show a success! The main topic of discussion was KISS’ 2009 Canadian trek, but naturally there were plenty of other things to talk about (not all of which were necessarily about KISS, per se!). Join Ken, Gary, James, Mike, and Geoff for the 1st of what may turn into a new tradition here at PodKISSt!

BIG thanks to everyone who called… you rock!!!

Rare live cuts? But of course! KISS news? For sure! Laughs? Plenty! Get clickin,’ KISS Army!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:07:37 — 49.9MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

On this edition of the PodKISSt we take a trip back to 1974 when KISS released their 2nd album “Hotter Than Hell.” In true PodKISSt fashion,we reconstruct the album track-by-track, with an assortment of live rarities and other goodies for you, the KISS Army, to enjoy! Join James, Ken, and Gary on a trip through this KISStoric record, and don’t forget to listen to both parts of this 2-part show!

show!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:28 — 59.7MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Our look back at “Hotter Than Hell” continues with more rarities and interviews, as well as the winning submission to our 2009 “Mainline” contest! Click, click! Click and enjoy!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 43:26 — 59.6MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Face front, KISS Army! This is YOUR PodKISSt! In this installment, we celebrate the greatest fans of the greatest band! Join Ken, James, and Gary for the longest PodKISSt yet… a 2-part, 2 hour program all about you… us… the KISS Army! You’ll hear an exclusive PodKISSt interview with KISS Army founder Bill Starkey, who shares his thoughts on the KISS legacy from their humble roots to the modern-day juggernaut. You’ll also hear letters from our listeners, heartfelt testimonials from long-time fans, and (of course) plenty of great tunes from throughout KISStory! So get comfortable… this is a double album!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:15 — 72.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Our celebration of the greatest fans of the greatest band continues! Join us for more music, more memories, and more mayhem! Hang out with PodKISSt correspondents Geoff and Mike at the 2009 Indy Expo, where they chat with fans, friends, and tribute band extraordinaire Mr. Speed!

Come meet some of the newest recruits in the KISS Army! All this, plus your letters… and plenty of Kool Klassic KISS Kuts!

Who says this isn’t the year of the PodKISSt?

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:32 — 76.1MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Well, it finally happened! KISS have made public their plans to record and release a brand new studio album – their first in over a decade! Coinciding with this KISStoric happening is the 30^th anniversary of another long-awaited KISS record, that being 1979’s “Dynasty.” Join us for another round-table discussion, one in which 3 generations of KISS fans are represented. We’ll revisit an album that marked the end of an era in KISStory, and look ahead at what 2009 has in store for the KISS Katalog. You’ll hear an exclusive PodKISSt interview with KISSonline webmaster Keith Leroux (courtesy of PodKISSt correspondents Mike and Geoff), and plenty of rare and revealing audio from the “Dynasty” era. This is a 2-part installment so don’t forget to download both files. And if some younger members of the KISS Army are in earshot, be forewarned: There’s some dirty language here… and plenty of dirty livin.’

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:03:58 — 87.8MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Here’s part 2 of our look back at “Dynasty,” and our look ahead at what’s to come!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 33:24 — 45.9MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

We’ve long wanted to do a show about the KISStoric Australian tours that have delighted fans down under since 1980. Then we learned of the wildfires that have taken a tragic toll on lives and land. This was the catalyst for us to pay homage to the enduring bond between KISS and Australia.

As the bushfires continued, we saw a spirit of brotherhood come shining through. In 1998, Paul sang about “strength in numbers.” Maybe he was singing about the KISS Army, our international collective that knows no borders.

Upon learning that the PodKISSt was doing a show about the wildfires, the online KISS Army demonstrated remarkable solidarity by sending messages of hope. LoveGun07 wrote: “It’s been wonderful getting to know our Australian KISS Army brothers and sisters, and I wish them all safety.” Px74 said: “My deepest sympathies to all families and friends affected by the terrible bushfires in Victoria.”

On this edition of the PodKISSt, we’re joined by George Xirocostas, webmaster of KISS Army Australia (see our links). George shares some funny and moving memories, and provides us with information on how we can help those whose lives have been impacted by the Australian wildfires.

We hope that these stories and live rarities from KISS’ Australian tours inspire you to lend a helping hand to those in need. Below is a link to the Australian Red Cross. In the words of KISS, “Dontcha hesitate!”

www.redcross.org.au

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 50:31 — 69.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Join us as we recognize one of rock radio’s most influential and distinctive voices… the Nightbird herself… Alison Steele. At a time when people still didn’t know what to make of KISS, the Nightbird was one of the 1^st radio DJs to allow KISS to explain themselves in their own words, on their own terms. As you listen to these 1974 interviews, you’ll likely notice that KISS were still figuring themselves out. You’ll hear Gene, Paul, Pete, and Ace giving us some early insights into their unique brand of musical mayhem. Plus, as always, we bring you some rare recordings from throughout KISStory. So sit back, relax, and listen… ‘cause it’s KISSin’ time!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 39:24 — 54.1MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

It’s KISSmas eve at PodKISSt headquarters when Ken, Gary, and James receive a surprising delivery from an anonymous KISS collector. Little do they suspect that they are about to embark on a KISSmas adventure! There are thrills, chills, and lots of laughs… and, of course, plenty of KISS rarities!

– What’s inside the mysterious package?

– Who is Wiggy?

– How will James, Ken, and Gary get back home?

– Which PodKISSt listener will win the KISSmas contest?

Find out right here!!!

CREDITS:

– James Hager, Gary Shaller, and Ken Mills as the PodKISSt staff

– Bob Kulick as himself

– Larry the Landlord as Wiggy

– Jan the Man as Santa Clause

– Intro music recorded at Felosound Studios. Produced and performed by Ralph De Los Santos and Gary Shaller

– Graphics and artwork by Ken Mills

We’re very proud to bring you this 2-part KISSmas show, and we’re looking forward to a great 2009!!!

PLUS: As an extra bonus, click on the link below for your very own picture of Wiggy to color! How did we get it? Listen to the show and find out!

http://i203.photobucket.com/albums/aa189/kendesign/wiggy1bwpicgojpg.jpg

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:36 — 43.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Our KISSmas celebration continues when Bob Kulick joins the festivities! Bob shares some exciting stories from throughout his career, and brings us the inside scoop on his newest project… a heavy metal Christmas CD unlike any other! Be sure to check out Bob’s great CD at this link:

http://www.amazon.com/Wish-Metal-Xmas-Headbanging-Year/dp/B001DZN5XA

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 41:17 — 56.7MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

What good is a mind if you don’t change it every now and then?

In recent weeks, the KISS Army has been buzzing with news of a possible new studio album from our favorite superhero rock band. Some fans had given up on the idea of hearing new music from KISS, due in part to comments by Gene and Paul regarding the state of the music business and the questionable utility of a new release. Other fans said “never say never,” knowing full well the ins and outs, the ups and downs, of KISStory itself.

It’s been 35 years since KISS started.

Makeup went away and came back.

Costumes went away and came back.

Band members went away and came back.

Songs went away and came back.

Even some fans went away and came back.

Without change, KISStory would be a brief and boring tale to tell.

In this installment, we celebrate the 25^th anniversary of an album that marked one of the biggest changes in the band’s career. That album is “Lick It Up,” and it forever changed how KISS was seen and heard by fans and critics throughout the world.

Join us as we revisit this excellent album in PodKISSt style, with the demos, live tracks, interviews, and discussions you won’t find elsewhere!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 55:03 — 75.6MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

In part 2 of this installment, we check in with our PodKISSt correspondent Geoff as he brings us exclusive coverage of the 2008 Dayton Expo. Plus, we take a seat in Ken’s KISS Kover Klass for a little Donnas 101.

Got PodKISSt?

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:32 — 36.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

In this installment, we celebrate 2 milestones: the 2^nd anniversary of the KISS Coffeehouse AND our 10^th show here at PodKISSt!!!

Back in August, we were invited to attend the festivities at the Coffeehouse, but neither James nor Ken nor I could make it. Fortunately, our correspondents Geoff and Mike traveled long distances through ominous weather and came through like the champs they are! Surely, they are among the highest-ranking officers in the KISS Army!

Once there, Geoff and Mike were given the V.I.P. treatment, with unfettered access to the sights and sounds of this KISStoric event.

They interviewed fans, chatted with well-known members of the KISS camp, and met the maker of the new KISS ketchup! Best of all, they scored an exclusive interview with none other than current KISS lead guitarist Tommy Thayer!

Tommy could not have been nicer! He took the time to answer our many questions, and provided us with some very unique and exciting insights into the KISS world!

We’re already hard at work on PodKISSts 11 and 12, and we’re so glad you’ve enjoyed what we’ve had to offer. BIG thanks to everyone who downloads the shows, to Ken for his great artwork, to Mike and Geoff for being superfans, and to Tommy Thayer for his time and attention!

So join us down at the KISS Coffeehouse, and get ready for some great surprises!

– Gary and James

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 42:00 — 57.7MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

So. True confession time. Ready? OK. Here goes: How many hours have YOU spent staring at the cover of the “Alive!” album? It sucks you in, just like the album does. It’s (arguably) KISS at their finest. Gene stands leering at his bass… making plans for pleasure, pain… or both! Pete’s the cool cat with his sticks in the air, ready to pound out a powerful pulse. Ace wields his axe like some cosmic divining rod, channeling powers known only to space travelers from Jendell. The Demon, the Catman, and the Space Ace… each in his own thoughts… each in his own world. And Paul? He’s in YOUR world. Staring straight at you (or through you), the Starchild embodies all that is Rock and Roll. And it’s been that way for 35 years. Whether he’s dazzling thousands of fans with the Hottest Band in the Land, or reaching for outstretched hands in a packed theater, Paul Stanley remains the greatest frontman in rock history. On October 21st, 2008, fans will have a chance to experience the power and passion of Paul’s “Live to Win” solo tour when the “One Live KISS” DVD hits the shelves. Thanks to the generosity of Universal/New Door, KISSonline.com, and Paulstanley.com, PodKISSt is proud to bring you an EXCLUSIVE interview with Louis Antonelli, director of this exciting new DVD. Louis gives us his up-close and personal account of the creative, collaborative process behind “One Live KISS.” Fans of Paul Stanley, take note: This is NOT a PodKISSt to miss! Big big thanks to everyone on the PodKISSt team, and to Paul himself!!! In this 2-part show (don’t forget to download both files!)…

• we bring you our exclusive Louis Antonelli interview (hosted by PodKISSt staffer Ken Mills)
• we check in with our pal Rich Kosak, the “Starchild” from tribute band Mr. Speed
• we hear first-hand accounts from some of Paul’s most devoted fans
• and lots, lots more! See ya soon… Gary, James, and the rest of your PodKISSt crew!!!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:32 — 91.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Download Part 2 of our “One Live Kiss” Special Here!

• Our interview with “One Live Kiss” Director Louis Antonelli continues
• James gives us the scoop on the unique “Ikons” compilation (October 21, 2008)

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 33:13 — 45.6MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

Join us as we bring you a unique sidestep from our usual PodKISSt format. In this, the space between our regular PodKISSt installments, we thought we’d fill in the gap with a round-table discussion between PodKISSt staffers Gary, James, and Ken. The main topic of this discussion is the new “Jigoku-Retsuden” CD. We hope to make THE COUNCIL OF THE ELDER a recurring feature in PodKISSt land. With KISS, there’s always lots to talk about, but we want to hear what YOU’RE interested in… so be sure to drop us an email at podkisst@gmail.com and share your ideas for future round-table discussions.

Stay tuned in the near future as the PodKISSt staff bring you some exciting, exclusive audio from the KISS Coffeehouse 2nd anniversary celebration, along with more of the rare audio, unique interviews, and other goodies you’ve come to expect. It’s not KISS without the cool surprises, and we want to keep that spirit ALIVE with each new program we bring to you.

As always, we welcome your feedback. Thanks to our pals on the various KISS-related message boards (you know who you are), and of course to KISS themselves!

And to Rick Wright… thanks for more than 40 years of amazing music. “It would be so nice to meet some time…” See you at the great gig in the sky.

Gary, September 2008

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:32 — 91.4MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS

It’s been 35 years and KISS are still going strong, as are we… the KISS Army! We’ve seen many changes, shared some triumphs and losses, and enjoyed many heated debates along the way. Yet the more things change, the more they stay the same. It’s 35 years later, and KISS are still celebrating (and using) the songs and images from their earliest days to the delight of many a lucky fan.

The hunger of a band in its earliest days is something that defies words; truly, the music speaks for itself. The material created by KISS at the start of their career has stood the test of time, both live and on record (or 8-track, or tape, or whatever ya got!). KISS’ first album has a raw intensity few could argue with, and the songs rock without compromise.

In recognition of KISS’ fantastic first album, the PodKISSt staff have assembled a special show in which we “reconstruct” that historic debut from start to finish. Each of the 10 songs is represented here, in most cases with a rare live recording showcasing the band in its many incarnations. Each member of KISS… past and present, living or deceased… has been included (plus a few surprises to keep the KISS Army on their toes and ready for action)!

Also in this show, we debut a brand new segment called “Ken’s KISS Kover Klass,” which will give listeners a chance to hear different artists putting their own unique spin on KISSongs new and old!

In this episode, you’ll hear:

– Paul, Gene, Ace, Peter, Eric Carr, Vinnie, Mark, Bruce, Eric Singer, and Tommy Thayer in top form!

– the pre-KISS demo by Gene that served as the foundation for “Strutter!”

– the original version of “Kissin’ Time,” as recorded by Bobby Rydell!

– a KISS classic interpreted by some famous fans!

– a rare radio ad for the 1st KISS album!

Stay tuned to the PodKISSt for some possible exciting news in conjunction with the upcoming 2nd anniversary of the KISS Coffeehouse!!!

So put down your bottle of cold gin, put on your headphones, and give it a listen!

You got nothin’ to lose!

Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:06:14 — 75.8MB) | Embed

Subscribe: Android | RSS