KISS Unleashes Epic Box Sets for 'Rock And Roll Over' 50th Anniversary
As the world of metal and hard rock reverberates with nostalgia, KISS is about to ignite a firestorm of excitement with the announcement of two monumental box sets commemorating the 50th anniversary of their iconic 1976 album, Rock And Roll Over. Set to drop on November 6, these collections are a love letter to the band's enduring legacy, featuring fresh mixes from the legendary Eddie Kramer, unheard demos, live tracks, and a plethora of collectible goodies that will have KISS Army members salivating.
Originally crafted under the meticulous eye of Eddie Kramer—whose resume boasts collaboration with rock titans like Jimi Hendrix and Led Zeppelin—Rock And Roll Over captured KISS at the zenith of their creative prowess. The album soared to #11 on the Billboard Top 200 and earned Platinum status from the RIAA, fueled by iconic singles like “Calling Dr. Love” and “Hard Luck Woman.” This album is not just a collection of songs; it’s a rite of passage for countless fans who were entranced by KISS's unapologetic rock ethos and jaw-dropping cover art.
The dual box sets cater to every audiophile's craving—one is a 6LP (180-gram black vinyl) + Blu-ray Audio set, while the other is a 4CD + Blu-ray Audio configuration. Each set boasts a staggering 130 tracks, including 100 previously unreleased gems, all starting with a newly remastered original stereo mix by the legendary Bernie Grundman. The anticipation for a remixed version from Eddie Kramer, utilizing the original analog multi-track tapes, is palpable, promising a rejuvenated listening experience that will reignite passion for this classic work.
Among the treasure trove, fans can expect 22 unreleased demos, alternate mixes, and outtakes. Highlights include nine Gene Simmons demos that evolved into the album's final masterpieces and a long-awaited unfinished instrumental called “Queen For A Day.” KISS also dug deep into the vaults to resurrect performances from their historic April 1977 shows in Japan, with selections from all four nights at the Nippon Budokan newly mixed by Kramer himself.
But that's not all—the box sets come packed with KISS Kollectibles, including a lavish 104-page hardcover book filled with never-before-seen photos, along with liner notes from KISStorian Ken Sharp and intimate interviews with the band members. Collectors will also find a treasure trove of memorabilia like trading cards, posters, a mobile album cover, and an enamel pin. To round out this auditory feast, a Blu-ray Audio disc will feature new Dolby Atmos and 5.1 surround mixes, promising an immersive listening experience that will transport fans straight into the heart of KISS's legendary sound.
As if that wasn't enough, a slew of additional 50th-anniversary offerings will be rolling out, including a limited Deluxe 1LP Zoetrope Picture Sawblade Die-cut Disc, premium color vinyl editions, and the Super Deluxe version available on all DSPs. KISS is not just celebrating an album; they're celebrating a legacy, and they're doing it with the same bombastic flair that has defined their career. Get ready, KISS Army—this is one anniversary you won’t want to miss!