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Live Reviews : KISS @ Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne 08/10/2015

By on October 9, 2015

Images & Words: John Raptis

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It finally happened. It finally came to pass. The stars aligned. The heavens parted. The Earth shook! Oh boy did it! After almost 10 years of being a Rock Photographer and after a couple of near opportunities, I finally photographed KISS. As a fan for 40 years, (yes, I can assure you, you heard right!) I found myself in KISS’ photo-pit. A surreal a moment as I have ever experienced. In all their bombastic glory they were there directly in front of me and I was wondering if my camera’s lens hood would melt from the flames, fire and fury. Or bust from the force of the guitar picks that Paul Stanley was throwing in my general direction.

KISS

KISS

Whilst some may argue that the current incarnation of the band isn’t the real deal, it is damn hard to argue that point at all when you turn your back from the photo-pit and see Rod Laver Arena full to capacity. It is an incredible sight and one that made the hairs on my neck stand upright. Try telling the massive throng in attendance tonight that this was not the real deal. I have witnessed KISS many times over the years. My first concert I ever experienced was KISS in 1980. I have seen them again in 1997, 2001, and 2004. Yes, they are getting a little long in the tooth so who knows how much longer they can continue.

Witnessing them again tonight, I was left astounded at the sheer energy levels that pour forth from the incredible stage. Energy and power that most bands half of KISS’ age can only dream of.

Granted, Paul’s voice is not what it once was, he made up for it by giving every single ounce of his being – to the full house at Rod Laver Arena. Every muscle and sinew of his body, was left up there on that stage. His prowess as a frontman, a genuine ring-leader has never left him.

KISS

KISS

Whilst I was in the photo-pit photographing him, he cam to the very edge of the stage. Fell to his knees and made sure every single photographer working the pit tonight – got their shot. The consummate professional. The entire stage seemed to come to life. A gigantic light rig twisted and turned like a futuristic glass spider. Twisting and contorting to the music and providing the best light show I have ever seen. KISS ploughed through a set of classic tunes inter spread from their vast catalogue. No surprises there but the connection between audience and band was simply electric.

They’ve been doing this long enough and hard enough over the years that they come across as an incredibly rehearsed, bombastic and professional entertainment unit. There’s nothing quite like a KISS show and it is astounding to see just how much of the live music industry they have pioneered.

They’re not kidding when they introduce themselves as the hottest band in the world.

A night with KISS is an unforgettable one.

Make sure to catch KISS on the remaining 40th anniversary Australian tour dates. Tickets from One World Entertainment and Ticketek.

Friday, 9th October
Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne
Tickets: Ticketek

Saturday, 10th October
Allphones Arena, Sydney
Tickets: Ticketek

Monday, 12th October
Newcastle Entertainment Centre, Newcastle
Tickets: Ticketek

Tuesday, 13th October
Brisbane Entertainment Centre, Brisbane
Tickets: Ticketek

Setlist

Detroit Rock City
Deuce
Psycho Circus
Creatures of the Night
I Love It Loud
War Machine
Do You Love Me
Hell or Hallelujah
Guitar and Drum Solos
Calling Dr. Love
Lick It Up
Bass Solo
God of Thunder
Cold Gin
Love Gun
Black Diamond

Encore:
Shandi
Shout It Out Loud
I Was Made for Lovin’ You
Rock and Roll All Nite
God Gave Rock ‘n’ Roll to You II

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