Monday, May 14, 2007

Gods of Thunder: In Defense of KISS

It seems like its uncool to be a KISS fan these days. Those that proudly proclaim their status as a member of the KISS Army seem to get laughed at by fans of so-called "real" music. What I want to know is, what the hell is wrong with KISS? Why can't a guy listen to The Smiths and enjoy rocking out to "God of Thunder"?

When you ask people why they hate KISS you'll likely hear a few reasons. A) They're silly. B) Their music is simple. C) They play the same thing over and over.

First off, of course they're silly! Everyone knows this, including the band. Do you think Paul Stanley has never realized that going on stage and calling himself the Lover (or even Starchild, they're both silly names) and perpetually pouting is somewhat silly? Honestly, Peter Criss had his face made up as a cat. If he didn't think it was slightly silly then he's a god damn fool. The fans also know its silly. Those that don't are exactly like the Morrissey fans who think he's always being serious: seriously delusional. The silliness is what attracts many fans to KISS. As kids we think its slightly evil but once you hit like nine or ten you should realize its really just silly but its cool because its that type of silly that is endearing.

On the second point, sure the music is simple but KISS isn't just about the music. In all honesty, The Stooges play simple music too but I don't see anyone saying you shouldn't like them. KISS gets the raw deal because of the makeup. Angel is a band from the same time period who didn't have makeup and no one knows them unless you're a burn out or obsessed with glam rock. Many bands copy the music but they don't have the charisma to pull off something so simple. Ace's solos aren't too difficult but it doesn't matter because his guitar is smoking while he does it thus making it the most awesome thing you can be witness to.

Many people seem to be bothered by the fact that KISS repeatedly does the same thing. To these people I pose a question: Have you heard the times that KISS have tried to do something different? They don't work. KISS knows that they're good at and does their best to be the best at it. I don't see anyone giving AC/DC shit for writing the same song a million times (not counting the horrendous power ballads that they did when Bon Scott was around, but please never talk about those) and no one should be giving KISS shit either. They rock, they know it, and you should shut up and enjoy it. I mean, "I Was Made For Loving You" is a great song, but really the rest of Dynasty isn't that great. Music From The Elder? Give me a break. I keep it around for laughs. KISS Unplugged? Let's just say, I only own it because I stole it and even then I feel like I should throw it away. Taking off the face paint? They learned and now its back. KISS does what they know and they do it better than any other band can.

I think a lot of people dislike KISS because they're parents may have enjoyed KISS and their dislike is a reaction to their parents. You know, its the typical "Oh boo, I don't want to be like my parents so I'll dislike KISS." Well guess what Harry Hateshisparents: You're wrong. KISS is great and you should stop resisting. You know deep down you want to rock and roll all night and party everyday.