KISS - Vinyl Album Covers Gallery & Discography
This web-page has photos of KISS Album Covers and detailed descriptions with background information on KISS Hard Rock Band.
This web-page has photos of KISS Album Covers and detailed descriptions with background information on KISS Hard Rock Band.
KISS is an American rock band that was formed in 1973. The band has been known for its high-energy performances, theatrical costumes, and makeup. KISS has sold over 100 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time.
History
KISS was formed in New York City by Gene Simmons, Paul Stanley, Ace Frehley, and Peter Criss. The band's name is an acronym for "Knights in Satan's Service" or "Kids in Satan's Service," depending on whom you ask. KISS gained a reputation for their wild live shows, which featured fire-breathing, blood-spitting, and pyrotechnics. Their makeup and costumes, which included platform shoes, leather, and studs, were designed to create a larger-than-life persona.
KISS's first album, "KISS," was released in 1974 and included the hit single "Strutter." The band continued to release successful albums, including "Destroyer," "Rock and Roll Over," and "Love Gun." KISS also became known for their merchandise, which included lunch boxes, dolls, and comic books.
Music
KISS's music is a blend of hard rock, heavy metal, and glam rock. The band's sound is characterized by heavy guitar riffs, catchy choruses, and anthemic lyrics. Some of KISS's most famous songs include "Rock and Roll All Nite," "Detroit Rock City," and "I Was Made for Lovin' You."
KISS's music has influenced numerous artists, including Guns N' Roses, Motley Crue, and Bon Jovi. The band's theatrical live shows have also been a significant influence on the stage performances of artists such as Alice Cooper and Marilyn Manson.
Impact
KISS's impact on the music industry and popular culture cannot be overstated. The band's image and sound helped define the glam rock era of the 1970s and influenced a generation of musicians. KISS's merchandise, which included everything from action figures to a KISS coffin, set the standard for band merchandising and became a significant source of revenue for the band.
KISS has also been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous other honors, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The band's legacy continues to influence music and pop culture today.
KISS, the legendary rock band known for their elaborate face paint, pyrotechnics, and larger-than-life characters, has had a surprisingly fluid lineup throughout their long career. While the core of KISS has always been bassist Gene Simmons and vocalist Paul Stanley, the band's surrounding members have shifted like the colors in a kaleidoscope.
The classic era of KISS, from 1973 to 1980, featured a lineup etched in rock history: Stanley (Starchild), Simmons (The Demon), Ace Frehley (Spaceman/Space Ace), and Peter Criss (Catman). This foursome delivered the band's signature sound – a blend of hard rock, glam, and theatricality – and iconic albums like *Alive!*. However, tensions and creative differences eventually led to Criss's departure in 1980, followed by Frehley in 1982.
The 80s saw KISS experiment with a more commercially-oriented sound and unmasked faces. Drummers Eric Carr (The Fox) and Vinnie Vincent (Ankh Warrior) joined the ranks, but neither captured the magic of the original lineup. Guitarist Bruce Kulick eventually replaced Vincent, bringing a period of stability that lasted through the late 80s and early 90s.
By the mid-90s, nostalgia reigned supreme. The original lineup, with makeup back in place, reunited for a hugely successful tour, proving that there was indeed "something special" about the classic KISS. However, the reunion was short-lived, and Criss and Frehley were eventually replaced by long-term members Eric Singer and Tommy Thayer (who donned the Spaceman persona). This lineup has remained constant for the past two decades, touring extensively and even releasing new studio albums.
KISS's ever-changing lineup has been a source of fascination and debate for fans. While some argue that only the original four can truly embody the spirit of KISS, others appreciate the musical evolution brought by later members. Regardless of who's behind the masks, one thing remains clear: KISS's ability to adapt, shock, and entertain has ensured their place as one of rock and roll's most enduring and outrageous acts.
KISS is one of the most iconic bands in the history of rock music. Their high-energy performances, theatrical costumes, and makeup have helped define the glam rock era of the 1970s and influenced generations of musicians. KISS's music, image, and merchandise have made them one of the most recognizable and successful bands of all time. The band's legacy continues to impact the music industry and popular culture today, making KISS a true American rock and roll icon.
Released on September 18, 1978, alongside solo efforts from his bandmates, "Ace Frehley" wasn't just a chance for the Spaceman to shine outside of KISS' larger-than-life persona
Ace Frehley 12" Vinyl LP
"Alive II" is the 1977 live album from the American rock band Kiss. It is the group's eighth album and second live album.
KISS - Alive II (1977 Germany) KISS - Alive II (1977 USA)
"Asylum" marked a turning point for KISS. Following the departure of original guitarist Ace Frehley, Bruce Kulick stepped in, making his debut studio appearance.
KISS - Asylum (1989. Netherlands) KISS - Asylum (1985, West-Germany)
"Crazy Nights" saw Kiss venturing into new musical territory, departing from their previous heavy metal sound showcased in albums like "Lick It Up", "Animalize", and "Asylum".
Crazy Nights (1987, Holland) 12" Vinyl LP
While "Double Platinum" has been reissued and repackaged over the years, the original gatefold with its embossed, silver-foiled cover and bas-relief art remains a standout.
KISS - Double Platinum (Germany) KISS - Double Platinum (West-Germany)
This is the original vinyl release, in a gatefold-sleeve, with an embossed, silver-foiled sleeve, with the band members in bas-relief inside. (Re-issues have the band members represented inside by photos rather than the bas illustrations).
KISS - Dressed to Kill KISS - Dressed To Kill (Red Vinyl)
Dynasty is the seventh studio album by Kiss, released in 1979. The album features a departure from the band's traditional hard rock sound, with a more pop-oriented and disco-influenced sound
KISS - Dynasty Audiophile (1979 Germany) KISS - Dynasty (1979) KISS - Dynasty Red Vinyl
KISS's "Music From The Elder" flopped critically, but the French 12" vinyl with a gatefold cover is a collector's item. This release features the same progressive rock music
Music From The Elder 12" Vinyl LP
KISS's 1979 "I Was Made For Lovin' You" single surprised fans with disco vibes, becoming a #1 hit. The B-side, "Hard Times," kept their rock alive. This 7" vinyl single is a collector's item
Was Made For Lovin' You b/w Hard Times 7" Vinyl Single
This album was released only outside the United States, but quickly became available as an import. Of the twelve songs on Killers, four were new compositions recorded specifically for the album.
Killers 12" Vinyl LP
"Lick It Up" is the 11th studio album by the American rock band Kiss. On the day of the album's release, Kiss appeared on MTV without their trademark makeup.
KISS - Lick it Up (Germany) KISS - Lick It Up (Netherlands) KISS - Lick it Up (Yugoslavia)
"Love Gun" is an album that epitomizes the larger-than-life persona of KISS. From its bombastic sound to its visually striking album cover, everything about this release screams rock 'n' roll excess
KISS - Love Gun German Version KISS - Love Gun USA Version
The rare German pressing of KISS's "Sure You Know Something" b/w "Dirty Livin'" 7-inch is a collector's gem. This 1979 single features two strong tracks, showcasing the band's energy and versatility
Sure You Know Something b/w Dirty Livin' 7" Vinyl Single
"Unmasked", the 1980 studio album by American glam metal band KISS, remains a significant milestone in the band's discography. Produced by Vini Poncia for Mad Vincent Productions, with assistance from Anne Streer
Unmasked 12" Vinyl LP