Kiss at 35
By Carlin Nguyen
Live pyrotechnics and gnarly special effects were the norm as the band, Kiss, came into Anaheim, California to perform at Honda Center last night.
In front of an estimated 15,000 attendees, the dynamic quartet of Paul Stanley (rhythm guitar, vocals), Gene Simmons (bass guitar, backing vocals), Tommy Thayer (lead guitar, vocals) and Eric Singer (drums, vocals) came and rocked the stage for "KISS Alive 35" -- a commemoration of the 35 years the band has been together. (Only Simmons and Stanley remain from the original line up.)
On stage, Thayer performed his guitar solo like cream and butter during “Cold Gin” for which the song refers to the desirable effects of consuming gin for a male’s sex drive. The blue and blurry lighting effects during the song kept the crowds on their heels.
The straight shooting attitude of Simmons is clear with his fire-flurry sword as he strikes it onstage while performing “Hotter Than Hell.” He always remembers to breathe in-and-out with blood and still lives life to his fullest.
Stanley also had a trick up in his sleeves and unexpectedly let it out during “Love Gun.” It was hard to miss: flying.
Singer can really play on the drums. A member since officially joining the band in 2002, during “100,000 Years” his drum solo performance stood out like a knife in the heart. His skill could easily be compared to other well-known drummers such as Tommy Lee (Motley Crue) or Chad Smith (Red Hot Chili Peppers).
Together now for 35 years, when the band performed “Rock And Roll All Night,” it was evident to the crowd that the band will not be slowing down anytime soon.
Buckcherry was the opening act.
