Album Review: KISS - KISS 40

Given Gene Simmons would contemplate selling his own children if it meant he could make another dollar, a new KISS set marking their 40th anniversary seems a no–brainer. Released in accordance with a massive reissue campaign, the American rockers aren't ones to bypass a marketing opportunity and ensuing tie–ins.

This two–CD compilation incorporates one track from every major album release, offering considerable value for newbies who haven't acquired one of their many previous such collections. Aside from a wealth of Kiss Klassics (Detroit Rock City, Beth, Rock And Roll All Nite, et al) three live cuts from the 2000s–era and previously unreleased 1977 demo of Reputation ought to be adequate to hook completists already subjected to a litany of band–branded items, from condoms to caskets. Referencing the original members' 1978 solo records is a welcome touch, while thunderous live staple I Love It Loud underlines the vastly under–rated status of 1982's heavier Creatures Of The Night. This is contrasted by the inclusion of dire, Robert Palmer–esque Let's Put The X In Sex and Deep Purple worship of recent track, Hell Or Hallelujah. No Love Gun, though? Disappointing.   

In the wake of the Hall Of Fame war of words, it's at least appropriate to relive some of the more memorable hard rock anthems of the past four decades. It's also a timely reminder of their early raw, fire-breathing, blood-spitting prowess before planet–sized egos, outside songwriters and, inevitably, age began to rear their heads.