KISS Monster CD Review ~

Allow me to introduce myself. My name is Jay, and I am Dawn’s husband. I am going to write a review of the brand new KISS CD entitled “Monster,” released on October 16th, which my wife purchased for me. Not only did she buy me the CD, but she bought me the limited deluxe edition which comes with a 64-page exclusive magazine! My wife is the best! Not sure about this, but I think the limited deluxe edition is only available at Wal-Mart.

What did I think of the KISS Monster CD?

Now, I want you to know that although I am a huge KISS fan I am also their biggest critic. There are several KISS albums that I love, but there are some that I think should not even be included in their catalog. I mean, seriously, Music from the Elder? Ugh! So, I will be as honest as possible about what I heard on this CD. I will employ the following rating system to help you, the reader, make an informed decision as to whether or not you should buy this CD:

A-Buy it immediately if not sooner
B-Still a good buy, but not great
C-Buy it only if there are no better CDs available
D-Pick up the case, admire the album art, then put it pack
F-Don’t waste your time nor your hard-earned money

Here is a track by track review of KISS Monster

The first track is the heart-pounding “Hell or Hallelujah.” This is a classic KISS track that is sure to be a staple of the KISS set list for years to come. In my opinion, it’s an instant classic. It will grab hold of you from the beginning and shake your foundations!

Next up is Gene’s first effort on the album, “Wall of Sound.” Although not as strong nor as punchy as “Hell or Hallelujah,” it is not without promise. The song is strong and the band delivers it with a hard edge not heard in a KISS song since the Revenge album.

“Freak” is the album’s third track and is Paul Stanley’s ode to what people think when they see the members of KISS for the first time (haha!). Your usual rock and roll outlaw banter here, but a good song.

The most disappointing track on the album is the fourth track, “Back to the Stone Age.” Although better than most other bands could deliver, to me it was not up to KISS standards. This song should have been left off the final cut in my opinion. You may disagree.
“Shout Mercy” is another one of those songs that contains offensive innuendos that were so popular back in the 80s. I enjoy this song purely for the music. The innuendos are too passé for me.

“Long Way Down” has the potential to be a huge single. It is strong and heavy, and lyrically it goes beyond the simple “ooh yeah, baby.” It will leave you begging for more. Outside of “Hell or Hallelujah,” this is my favorite track on the album.

“Eat Your Heart Out” starts out with a little a capella section from the band. I was unimpressed with it, but I like the song in general. It had a driving beat that I enjoyed. By the way, I am a fan of upbeat music and I rarely pay attention to lyrics in a song. I have tried to pay more attention to lyrics for this review, but I enjoy the actual music better than the words, so that’s what either drives me to like or dislike a song, the music.

Next up is “The Devil Is Me.” This is Gene’s attempt to resurrect “Hate” from the Carnival of Souls album and “Unholy” from the Revenge album. Let it rest, Gene, let it rest.

“Outta This World” is the only track on the album that features lead vocals from Tommy Thayer, the band’s lead guitarist. He doesn’t have the best voice, but the song is awesome! I really enjoyed it! It reminded of something the band would have done in the mid-70s. Great track! You know, maybe Paul and Gene should allow Tommy and Eric more input, because the next track features vocals by drummer Eric Singer, called “All for the Love of Rock and Roll.” It too is a barn burner! Good job, guys, allowing these tracks to appear on the album!

“Take Me Down Below” again contains innuendos that some may find offensive. It is delivered with strength and power, but again, more innuendos.

The final track is aptly titled “Last Chance.” Delivered by Paul in what he calls the opportunity to “not let the album just die out” with another throwaway track. He promises it, he delivers it. Fourth best track on the album.

Final Thoughts on KISS Monster

This is KISS’ 20th studio album, and it promises “no fillers, no ballads, just great rock and roll.” For the most part it delivers. I gave the album overall a “B” in my ratings scale. To me it was a marked improvement from 2010’s “Sonic Boom,” which to me was a major disappointment. I do think hardcore KISS fans in general will love this album, but if you are a novice KISS fan and wanting to hear the band at its best, then stick to Destroyer and Rock and Roll Over. However, don’t shun this album. It is still good. Yeah, KISS is back, and they are still good enough to rock your socks off!