KISS - KILLERS - USA Release 12" Vinyl LP Album

  This album "Killers" is the second compilation album by American hard rock group Kiss. The 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. These new songs were recorded at the behest of Phonogram Records, in response to the commercial failure of 1981's Music from "The Elder"

 

large album front cover photo of: Kiss Killers

Album Description:

KISS, the iconic American hard rock group, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with their electrifying performances and memorable anthems. Among their extensive discography, "Killers" stands out as a unique release. Although initially available exclusively outside the United States, it quickly gained popularity and became accessible as an import. This 12" LP vinyl album showcases the band's versatility and highlights their ability to captivate audiences with their energetic sound.

"Killers" comprises a collection of twelve tracks, including four new compositions specifically recorded for this album. These fresh songs were brought to life at the request of Phonogram Records, following the commercial disappointment of KISS's previous album, "Music from 'The Elder'". With the goal of reigniting their fan base and reclaiming their status as hard rock pioneers, KISS delivered a compilation that combined both new material and fan-favorite classics.

The album opens with "I'm a Legend Tonight", a powerful track penned by Paul Stanley and Adam Mitchell. Stanley's distinctive vocals soar over the driving guitar riffs, setting the stage for an adrenaline-fueled listening experience. This high-energy momentum carries into "Down on Your Knees", a collaboration between Stanley, Mikel Japp, and Bryan Adams. The song's catchy hooks and infectious chorus leave a lasting impression.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Cold Gin", originally written and performed by the enigmatic Ace Frehley. This song showcases Frehley's exceptional guitar skills and solidifies his reputation as a virtuoso. "Love Gun", penned by Paul Stanley, continues the album's blistering pace, offering a classic KISS anthem filled with infectious melodies and explosive guitar solos.

The album also features a remixed version of the hit song "Shout It Out Loud". Originally from their "Destroyer" album, this reimagined rendition captures the essence of KISS's live performances, with its raw energy and anthemic choruses. "Sure Know Something", another Stanley composition, follows suit with its melodic hooks and introspective lyrics.

Flipping to Side Two, listeners are greeted by the powerful and hard-hitting "Nowhere to Run", a track that showcases Stanley's vocal prowess. "Partners in Crime", a collaboration between Stanley and Mitchell, delivers a dynamic and infectious sound, further adding to the album's diverse sonic landscape.

"Detroit Rock City", a shortened edit of the band's signature anthem, retains its powerful impact and remains an essential inclusion on "Killers". Its driving rhythm and unforgettable guitar riffs make it a perennial favorite among KISS fans. "God of Thunder", written and performed by Paul Stanley, captivates listeners with its dark and brooding atmosphere, showcasing the band's ability to explore different musical territories.

The album also includes an edited version of the disco-infused hit "I Was Made for Lovin' You". This song, written by Stanley, Vini Poncia, and Desmond Child, exhibits KISS's willingness to experiment with different styles and showcases their adaptability as musicians. Closing out the album is a live rendition of their iconic anthem, "Rock and Roll All Nite", a staple in their live performances that encapsulates the essence of KISS's high-octane energy and unrelenting spirit.

Music Genre:

Hard Rock

Label & Catalognr:

Casablanca 6302 193 (with yellow background colour)

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1982 Made in West Germany

Producers:

The album: "KISS - Killers" was produced by: Michael James Jackson

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Dave Thoener

Recording Location:

This album was recorded at: Record Plant, New York City

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Howard Marks Advertising

Photography:

Barry Levine

Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: KISS - Killers
Complete Track-listing of the album "KISS - Killers"

The detailed tracklist of this record "KISS - Killers" is:

    Track-listing Side One:
  1. "I'm a Legend Tonight" Paul Stanley, Adam Mitchell 3:59
  2. "Down on Your Knees" Stanley, Mikel Japp, Bryan Adams 3:31
  3. "Cold Gin" Ace Frehley 4:20
  4. "Love Gun" Stanley 3:17
  5. "Shout It Out Loud" (7" mix) Stanley, Gene Simmons, Bob Ezrin 2:40
  6. "Sure Know Something" Stanley, Vini Poncia 3:59
    Track-listing Side Two:
  1. "Nowhere to Run" Stanley 4:32
  2. "Partners in Crime" Stanley, Mitchell 3:45
  3. "Detroit Rock City" (edit) Stanley, Ezrin 3:53
  4. "God of Thunder" Stanley 4:11
  5. "I Was Made for Lovin' You" (edit) Stanley, Poncia, Desmond Child 4:18
  6. "Rock and Roll All Nite" (live) Stanley, Simmons 3:58
High Quality Photo of Album Front Cover  "KISS - Killers"

High Resolution Photo #1 kiss killers west-germany

 

High Resolution Photo #2 kiss killers west-germany

 

High Resolution Photo #3 kiss killers west-germany

 Note: The images on this page are photos of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

Index of KISS Vinyl Discography and Album Cover Gallery

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.


FEATURED KISS (BAND) VINYL RECORDS

KISS - Ace Frehley
KISS - Ace Frehley  album front cover vinyl record

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
KISS - Alive II (Two International Versions)
KISS - Alive II album front cover vinyl record

"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)
KISS - Asylum (Two European Versions)
KISS - Asylum (Two International Versions)  album front cover vinyl record

"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)
KISS - Crazy Nights
KISS - Crazy Nights (1987, Holland)  album front cover vinyl record

"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
KISS - Double Platinum (German & West-German Versions)
KISS - Double Platinum  album front cover vinyl record

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)
KISS - Dressed To Kill (Black & Red Vinyl Versions)
KISS - Dressed To Kill (Blacm & Red Vinyl Versions) album front cover vinyl record

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)
KISS - Dynasty (3 Different Versions incl Colored Vinyl)
KISS - Dynasty (3 Different Versions incl Colored Vinyl)  album front cover vinyl record

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 - Music From The Elder
KISS - Music From The Elder album front cover vinyl record

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 - I Was Made For Lovin' You b/w Hard Times
KISS - I Was Made For Lovin' You b/w Hard Times  album front cover vinyl record

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
KISS - Killers
KISS - Killers  album front cover vinyl record

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
KISS - Lick It Up (Three International Versions)
KISS - Lick it up  album front cover vinyl record

"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)
KISS - Love Gun (USA & German Versions)
KISS - Love Gun (USA & German Versions)  album front cover vinyl record

"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
KISS - Sure You Know Something b/w Dirty Livin'
KISS - Sure You Know Something b/w Dirty Livin'  album front cover vinyl record

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
KISS - Unmasked
 KISS - Unmasked  album front cover vinyl record

"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