Peter Criss, the iconic original drummer of KISS, is preparing to unleash a brand new rock solo album this fall. The 79-year-old musician, famously known as “Catman,” shared the exciting news himself, promising a return to powerful rock and roll.
The upcoming album was co-produced by Barry Pointer, whose impressive resume includes work with Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson, and John 5, among others. Criss has assembled a stellar lineup of musicians for the record, featuring the legendary Billy Sheehan and Matthew Montgomery (also known as Piggy D., recognized for his work with Rob Zombie and Alice Cooper) sharing bass duties. Guitar responsibilities are handled by the versatile John 5 and Mike McLaughlin (known as Angel in CRISS circles), with the renowned Paul Shaffer contributing piano and Hammond B-3 organ.
The announcement came via a video message shared by Julian Gill, a well-respected KISS historian who has run the KissFAQ.com website since the mid-1990s. In the message, Peter Criss directly addressed his fans (as transcribed by Blabbermouth):
“I have an announcement. I have my new rock and roll album to you, Kiss Army guys, coming out in the fall. And I really hope you like it, man. And I wanna say God bless to each and every one of you.”
Gill, who had the privilege of listening to the album at Peter‘s studio, couldn’t contain his excitement:
“Now, this is a hard rock kick-a*s album, co-produced by Barry Pointer… I was honored to listen to this album at Peter‘s studio with him last night, and it was absolutely amazing to hear this new music. It was vibrant and powerful. I’m so excited for it to be released, and I think KISS fans are gonna love this album. Peter‘s drum sound is absolutely massive and his vocals are powerful. Barry Pointer‘s production is stunning, and Peter‘s got an incredible group of musicians and background vocalists behind him.”
Gill further elaborated on the impressive musical chemistry:
“Billy Sheehan, as you would expect, delivers incredible, perfect and spectacular basslines, and he and Peter are locked in so tight, it’s amazing. Guitarist Mike McLaughlin, better known as Angel from CRISS circles, delivers some scorching guitar work on this album, as, of course, does the electric troubadour himself John 5. Matthew Montgomery, better known as Piggy D., who played with Marilyn Manson and Alice Cooper, is on bass on some songs, and Paul Shaffer is a monster on [Hammond] B-3 and piano.”
Concluding his preview, Gill added:
“You know what? Peter has written some very powerful songs here, and I’m so excited for you to hear them. Peter will be doing more in-depth interviews closer to the release date in the fall.”
This marks Criss‘s first solo release since 2007’s One For All, an album he produced himself which showcased a diverse range of styles and featured guests like Paul Shaffer and Will Lee.
Criss first left KISS in 1980 but rejoined for reunion tours in the 1990s and again until 2004, before being replaced by Eric Singer. Beyond his powerful drumming, Criss provided unforgettable lead vocals on massive KISS hits such as “Beth,” “Black Diamond,” and “Hard Luck Woman.” Despite playing what was billed as his final full U.S. concert in June 2017, it seems the Catman still has plenty of rock left in him.
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