Kiss
Accor Stadium
Sydney, Australia
07 October 2023
The air was electric with anticipation as Kiss, the legendary rock icons known for their extravagant stage performances, descended upon Australia for what they assert to be their last tour. The "End of the Road" tour, now spanning over four years, each time proclaims to be their final appearance on Australian soil. Yet, here they are once more, bedecked in their iconic kabuki makeup, ready to unleash yet another unforgettable spectacle.
Kiss, as a collective entity, is nothing short of mesmerizing. Their self-fashioned mythology, unwavering audacity, and the knack for transforming concerts into explosive spectacles have elevated them beyond the realm of ordinary rock shows. Over five decades, they've cultivated an unshakable connection with their fans by consistently delivering what their audience craves. They've also mastered the art of catering to their devoted following with an extensive array of merchandise.
Kiss has adhered to the rock tradition of embracing solos, which, it must be admitted, often constitute the least captivating segments of a rock concert.
Tommy Thayer conjures fireworks from his guitar headstock, Eric Singer vigorously pounds his drum kit, and Gene Simmons' bass solo, executed from a platform elevated to the lighting rig, predominantly serves as a pretext for his dramatic "bloodletting" before launching into "God of Thunder," a quintessential Simmons anthem where he not only declares himself the god of weather but also the god of rock 'n' roll.
"God of Thunder" encapsulates Kiss's lyrical style flawlessly, delving into their two primary domains: their mastery of rock and their prowess in the realm of romance. The lyrics may often seem superficial, but that's precisely the point. These songs require no profound introspection.
However, when they reach their pinnacle, Kiss delivers an exhilarating experience unmatched in its raw, primal essence of rock, accompanied by an onslaught of explosions. "Detroit Rock City" ignites the show with its agility and fervour, "I Was Made for Lovin' You" showcases their melodic finesse, and "Heaven's on Fire" unveils the pop harmonies that distinguish them in the realm of basic rock. Kiss has transitioned into one of those monumental acts that every music enthusiast should witness at least once in their lifetime.
Paul Stanley's stage banter remains an astonishing spectacle in its own right. His distinctive vocal delivery adds an additional layer to the overall theatrics. His clever remarks underscore the talents of an artist who revels in the theatricality of rock 'n' roll.
It's evident that Paul Stanley sings live, even if his voice occasionally exhibits signs of wear. Yet, nobody attends a Kiss concert expecting technical perfection. When the moment demands it, both Stanley and Simmons can deliver performances that surpass all expectations.
Kiss's concerts transcend the realm of mere musical performances and resemble grand spectacles. Despite a temporary dip during the show, they culminate triumphantly with some of their biggest bangers. The stage is engulfed in a deluge of confetti, punctuated by explosive eruptions, creating a visual spectacle that leaves the audience in a state of wonder.
In summary, Kiss in Sydney marked an explosive climax to their five-decade-long career, serving as a fitting send-off to one of the greatest acts in rock history.
