On August 21, I attended what may have been my final KISS concert ever. At this point, I’ve seen the band live more than 20 times, including five dates on its End Of The Road World Tour. If this was my last show, I went out on top because I watched the entire performance from the pit, which is in between the stage and the front row. Being in the pit was not planned ahead of time, but it was a fantastic surprise. Read on for my thoughts on my last KISS.
The classic rock band Enuff Z’Nuff just released Clowns Lounge, a collection of rarities and early demos that have been partially reworked and re-recorded by the band. This exceptional collection also features a guest appearance from the late Jani Lane, of Warrant, as well as an appearance from James Young of Styx on “The Devil Of Shakespeare.” Prior to the release of this excellent album, I had the opportunity to interview the band’s founder and bassist, Chip Z’Nuff. Check out our discussion below, pick up a copy of Clowns Lounge and look out for Enuff Z’Nuff in early 2017 when they’re touring with KISS’ original guitarist, Ace Frehley.
By now you probably know that I’m a huge KISS fan. And being a KISS fan means hearing about all of the crazy merchandising ideas they get involved in and asking yourself, Is this something worth buying? The band’s latest commercial venture is a direct-to-video movie with Scooby-Doo and the gang, and I’m glad to say it’s actually quite good.
This October I’ll be boarding my first cruise, but it won’t be just any cruise. It’ll be KISS Kruise III. What is a KISS Kruise, you ask? It’s a five-day luxury cruise with the “Hottest Band in the World,” KISS. This is the third year the band is setting off on this rock and roll sea voyage, and I felt the need to experience it at least once in my lifetime.
The cruise itself is a round trip from the Port of Miami to Key West and Great Stirrup Cay. It includes admission to two KISS concerts, one of which is an acoustic sail-away show without makeup. Everyone also gets a photo with the band and a pre-autographed commemorative item. Members of the “KISS Navy” also get to participate in a KISS Q&A and engage in group activities with the band members in between concerts.
In addition to KISS, other bands will be providing a steady supply of rock and roll concerts for people to enjoy. As of right now, three bands are scheduled to join KISS on this year’s cruise: Night Ranger, Leogun and Big Rock Show.
And just like regular cruises, all meals and non-carbonated beverages are included in the ticket price. Of course, certain activities and items come at an additional cost, like gambling, spa services and various off-board activities in Key West and Great Stirrup Cay.
Considering all the great music, activities and food that’s covered by the price of admission – not to mention the vacation itself – I think this is a great deal. It’s going to be an amazing trip filled with wild stories and crazy experiences that I look forward to sharing with you on my blog.
Until then, check out the acoustic sail-away show and Q&A with KISS’ Manager, Doc McGhee, from KISS Kruise II in 2012:
