KISS ‘Love Gun Deluxe Edition’

  Listen to the opening salvo of KISS’s classic “Love Gun” and one is seemingly transported back in time to the glorious age of 70’s arena rock where fire breathing gods, or in this case demons, ruled the stage. The instantly recognizable song was of course the title track from the iconic 1977 KISS album “Love Gun” that featured vocal performances by all four band members including Ace’s vocal debut on “Shock Me.” As a part of their 40th anniversary celebrations, the band has released a deluxe edition of this important record.

  The two disc set features a remastered version of the original 1977 album as well as a disc of goodies for diehard KISS fans. The production on the remastering is extremely well done. Unlike many re-issues, these classic songs have been updated for a more modern, fresh feel yet it doesn’t take away from that classic KISS sound. Disc two contains several demo tracks, some that didn’t make it onto the original record, including “Much Too Soon, ” “Reputation,” and an interesting teaching demo of “Love Gun” in which Paul Stanley explains the chord progressions of the song. Previously unreleased 1977 live versions of “Love Gun,” Christine Sixteen,” and “Shock Me” and a seven minute interview of Gene Simmons from 1977 are also part of the set. Collectors will appreciate the liner notes by Def Leppard’s Joe Elliott and the magnetic gun which is to be included with the packaging.

  This deluxe edition of “Love Gun” is very well done and a marked improvement over the “Destroyer” re-issue. All the extras may not appeal to the casual listener, but members of the KISS Army will definitely want to scoop this one up and add it to their KISS collection.