Peter Criss, the original drummer for Kiss, is stepping back into the spotlight this fall with a new rock solo album—his first in years. At 79, Criss is proving he’s far from done, assembling a stacked lineup and delivering what early listeners are already calling a standout record.
In a message shared through Julian Gill, the longtime Kiss historian behind KissFAQ.com, Criss addressed fans directly: “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.”
The album was co-produced by Barry Pointer, known for his work with artists like Ozzy Osbourne, Marilyn Manson, and Steve Stevens. It features a notable lineup: bassists Billy Sheehan and Matthew Montgomery (also known as Piggy D.), guitarists John 5 and Mike McLaughlin, and Paul Shaffer on piano and Hammond B-3.
Gill, who previewed the album at Criss’s studio, didn’t hold back his enthusiasm: “Now, this is a hard rock kick-ass album… 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.”
He continued, praising the rhythm section: “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,” he revealed.
As for Shaffer, Gill added, “Paul Shaffer is a monster on [Hammond] B-3 and piano.”
“Peter has written some very powerful songs here, and I’m so excited for you to hear them,” Gill noted.
Criss has kept a relatively low profile since his last stint with Kiss, which ended in 2004. He first exited the band in 1980 and has pursued solo work on and off ever since. Though details on the new album’s title or track list haven’t dropped yet, more interviews and updates are expected closer to the fall release.
