Few albums in rock history have the staying power of KISS’ Dressed to Kill. Released in 1975, it was the band’s third studio album and the one that gave us the immortal anthem “Rock and Roll All Nite.” For me personally, Dressed to Kill has always been one of my favorite KISS records—it’s lean, raw, and bursting with the energy of a band on the cusp of superstardom. Now, fifty years later, KISS has rolled out a 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition that feels less like a reissue and more like a full-on celebration of one of their most essential studio albums.
What’s Inside the Super Deluxe Edition
The 50th Anniversary release is available in multiple formats, but the crown jewel is the Super Deluxe box set, offered in both 5CD + Blu-ray Audio and 8LP + Blu-ray Audio configurations. Here’s what makes it so special:
- Remastered Album: Legendary mastering engineer Bernie Grundman remastered the original 1975 stereo analog tapes, breathing new life into the ten classic tracks.
- Unreleased Material: A staggering 78 previously unreleased tracks—including demos, alternate mixes, and instrumental outtakes. Highlights include the long-teased “Burning Up With Fever (Studio Demo)” and the never-before-heard “Mistake.”
- Historic Live Shows: Two complete concerts from the Dressed to Kill tour, recorded at Detroit’s Cobo Arena (May 16, 1975) and Davenport’s RKO Orpheum Theatre (July 20, 1975). Both mixed by Eddie Kramer directly from the original multi-track tapes, capturing KISS in their raw, unfiltered prime.
- Blu-ray Audio: A brand-new Dolby Atmos mix by David Frangioni, plus the original stereo remaster in high-resolution formats. Bonus features include HD transfers of the 1975 promo videos for “C’mon And Love Me” and “Rock And Roll All Nite.”
- Collector’s Treasures: A 100-page hardcover book with liner notes by Ken Sharp, rare photos, and memorabilia. Extras include posters, patches, stickers, guitar picks, a replica press kit, and even a Gotham Rock City News newspaper with interviews from the era.
Why This Release Matters
Dressed to Kill wasn’t just another KISS album—it was the record that solidified their identity and gave them their defining anthem. Songs like “Room Service,” “C’mon And Love Me,” and “She” showcase the band’s knack for blending hard rock grit with infectious hooks. The Super Deluxe Edition amplifies that legacy by offering fans a deep dive into the creative process, the live energy of 1975, and the cultural moment that made KISS larger than life.
This set also arrives at a poignant time, following the recent passing of Ace Frehley. His guitar work on Dressed to Kill remains electrifying, and hearing his solos in pristine remastered form—and in the newly unearthed live recordings—feels like a fitting tribute to his enduring influence on rock music.
Final Thoughts
As someone who has always held Dressed to Kill close to my heart, this 50th Anniversary Super Deluxe Edition is nothing short of spectacular. It’s not just a reissue—it’s a museum-worthy archive of KISS at their creative peak. Whether you’re a lifelong member of the KISS Army or a newer fan discovering the band’s legacy, this box set is an incredible celebration of one of KISS’ most important studio albums.
Play it loud. For Ace, for the music, and for 50 years of rock history.
Have you checked out the Super Deluxe Edition yet? Which track or unreleased gem are you most excited to hear?
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