“Kiss’ ‘Catman’ featured on new album, Kennedy Center Honor recipient, Ace Frehley absent”
Peter Criss, famously known as the “Catman” and drummer for the iconic rock band Kiss, has had quite the rollercoaster career. Despite leaving the band in 2004, he was still inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014. Over the years, Criss has faced various challenges, including substance abuse issues, impersonators, and a battle with breast cancer. But he has persevered through it all.
Recently, on the eve of his 80th birthday, Criss released his sixth solo album titled “Peter Criss” after an 18-year hiatus. Co-produced with Barry Pointer, the 11-song album features talented musicians like John 5, Mike McLaughlin, Billy Sheehan, and Paul Shaffer. The album also includes bass tracks by Marilyn Manson/Rob Zombie veteran Piggy D (Matt Montgomery), who also designed the album package. This solo project comes in the wake of Kiss’ Kennedy Center Honor ceremony, a momentous occasion for the band celebrated on December 7 and broadcasted on CBS on December 23.
Reflecting on the Kennedy Center Honor ceremony, Criss expressed his awe at the experience. As a kid from the tough streets of Brooklyn, the honor of standing in the Oval Office and being recognized in such a prestigious setting was overwhelming for him. He emphasized that such recognition was beyond his wildest dreams, considering the band’s humble beginnings in the 70s with their elaborate makeup and explosive stage performances.
Despite the controversy surrounding the Kennedy Center this year, Criss stayed out of political discussions, choosing to focus on his music and the honor of being awarded. He shared fond memories of the event, highlighting the historical significance of the moment and the pride he felt as an American musician receiving such recognition. The absence of his bandmate, Ace Frehley, who passed away in October, cast a shadow over the celebration, leaving Criss mourning the loss of his close friend.
Criss opened up about his last conversations with Frehley, remembering his enthusiasm for the Kennedy Center Honor and his plans for future music projects. Transitioning to a discussion about his new album, Criss revealed the long journey of creating the record, which began in 2008 with guitarist Michael McLaughlin. Inspired by the events of the pandemic, Criss revisited the album and enlisted the help of other talented musicians to complete the project, breathing new life into the music.
Throughout the album-making process, Criss poured his heart and soul into the project, enjoying the creative freedom and collaborative effort with his fellow musicians. He described it as a rejuvenating experience, reminiscent of his early days with Kiss. The album, while primarily rock-oriented, covers a wide range of styles and topics, reflecting Criss’ diverse musical influences and lyrical themes.
In the end, Peter Criss’ journey from the streets of Brooklyn to the Kennedy Center Honor stage encapsulates a lifetime of passion, dedication, and resilience in the face of adversity. His music continues to resonate with fans around the world, showcasing the enduring legacy of the legendary “Catman.”