As rumored, the forthcoming album by Kiss—Sonic Boom, the made-up marauders’ first album in 11 years—will be a Wal-Mart exclusive. Boom, which comes out Oct. 6, will be part of a three-disc package that also includes a “completely re-recorded” greatest-hits CD and a DVD featuring live performances of six tracks. Will the Wal-Mart push be enough to get Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley their first No. 1 album? Given the anemic sales climate of recent months, the official Idolator Magic 8 Ball says… “Signs point to yes.”
The way that I found out this news was actually sort of ironic. I listen to news radio in the mornings (to help get the old blood pressure up fast), and the report on this release was soundtracked by the cover of Hello’s “New York Groove” that appeared on Ace Frehley’s 1978 solo album. Which was odd for two reasons: first, Frehley isn’t on the record (former Black N’ Blue axeman Tommy Thayer is handling lead-guitar duties); and second of all, the Bentonville retail giant has long been exiled from New York’s five boroughs. Although there is a store in Secaucus, just across the river. I guess deadline pressure resulted in there not being enough time to re-cut the track?
KISS [Official site]
New York Groove - Ace Frehley [YouTube]
So they’re just recycling their old album covers now. Seems appropriate.
If this new album is combined with a “re-recorded” hits disc and a DVD, it seems fair to assume that Sonic Boom, itself, is mere filler which is tied to a revamped hits package. Can people really get that excited about these retreaded hits, done by half the classic lineup (no Frehley or Criss), some thirty years later? Gene Simmons has made no bones about what a money hungry bugger he is so it’s not like they’re trying to pull a fast one. But they’ve sucked for years and, pushing 60 years of age, they look ridiculous. Having spewed my opinion, I sadly admit that Kiss will most likely sell a crap-load of this latest offering.
Totally random free-association.
I was just in Amoeba records last week and they had an unannounced auction for charity. Picked up a set of sweet, sweet KISS zippo lighters for 20 bucks.
“New York Groove” plays a big part in the last Grand Theft Auto game.
OK- now what’s this about Wal-Mart?
Ace’s album is coming out in September. I’m sure it will kick “Sonic Boom”’s ass.
@jonian2008: Agreed. Also, is Peter Criss still in KISS? I’m confused.
I’ve heard the re-recorded versions, they suck. Without Ace Frehley and Peter Criss, forget it.