The timing of this record could not have been any worse. KISS ... actually Gene Simmons wanted to take the band in a different direction. He wanted a more Metallica/Alice In Chains/Stone Temple Pilots sound. That is what this album delivered. One problem. No one does Metallica or Alice In Chains or STP like Metallica, Alice In Chains and STP.
This album was being finished up as negotiations were being worked out for a full fledged reunion with the original members. It wouldn't make much sense to release a new album of new material with Eric Singer and Bruce Kulick without makeup as the band was re releasing makeup era albums and hitting the road with the "Reunion Tour"... so the album sat in the can. Also...this album was bootlegged WAY before it's official release date. I think I had a copy nearly two years before it came out.
I felt bad for Bruce Kulick for three reasons. One: he was no longer in the band. Two: he had several co writing credits on this album. Three: the album contained his lead vocal debut on the song "I Walk Alone". Listening to it with fresh ears right now...it hasn't aged well. It's almost like a grunge tribute album featuring the members of KISS...the non-makeup era members of KISS.
Their previous album "Revenge" was and is still one of my favorite albums. Amazing content and musicianship.
If you have an hour today that could use some background noise...crank up Carnival of Souls. I would say ... enjoy ... but that may be a stretch.