KISS - Unmasked

180-gram LP

Kiss celebrates its 40th anniversary and its induction into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame with a series of individual 180-gram vinyl reissues from the band's celebrated catalog, including their 1998 effort Psycho Circus on vinyl for the very first time! 

Unmasked is the first album by Kiss not featuring the four original members. Although featured on the album cover, drummer Peter Criss was replaced by session man and David Letterman band member Anton Fig. With disco all but dead and new wave setting in, the group took a pop approach with producer Vini Poncia at the helm. While the record may have alienated hard core fans that were used to the band's heavier sound, the record did manage to appeal to Kiss' ever growing kiddie base.

The band's lyrical content remained consistent though, as "Is That You?" describes a vixen-like character close to the group. "Shandi", the only single off the record, is a catchy pop ballad featuring Paul Stanley on lead vocals. Lead guitarist Ace Frehley contributes vocally to 2 tracks: "Talk To Me" and "Torpedo Girl", increasing his input in the group compared to previous years. Although Unmasked may not be Kiss's hardest rocking offering, it's certainly a tight, well crafted rock album that is thoroughly enjoyable and showcases the band's talents.