'Alive II', the second seminal live album from KISS turns 46, released on October 14th

Published October 14 2023 at 13:36

Released on October 14th 1977, 'Alive II' is a monumental live album by the iconic American hard rock band KISS. Serving as the follow-up to their highly successful 'Alive!' album from 1975, this record captures the electric energy and theatrical spectacle that made KISS legendary performers in the 1970s.

'Alive II' showcases KISS at the peak of their glam rock and hard rock powers. It features explosive renditions of classic hits like "Detroit Rock City," "Love Gun," and "I Want You", complete with the band's signature pyrotechnics, blood-spitting, and explosive stage presence. The album provides a front-row seat to the theatricality and larger-than-life personas that became synonymous with KISS.

What sets 'Alive II' apart is that it not only features live recordings but also includes a selection of 5 new studio tracks, giving fans a unique blend of live energy and studio craftsmanship. The studio side of the album includes gems like "Rocket Ride" and "Larger Than Life," which further solidified KISS's reputation as hard rock icons.

"Alive II" represents a pivotal moment in KISS's career, reminding us of the band's enduring impact on the rock music landscape. It remains a cherished classic in the band's discography and an essential listen for any rock enthusiast, capturing the essence of a KISS concert during their prime.

The original vinyl issue of 'Alive II' was a 2-LP set with a gatefold cover and picture inner-sleeves. Continuing the Kiss tradition of including promotional items with their albums, 'Alive II' was packaged with a full-color booklet titled "The Evolution of Kiss" and a set of temporary transfer tattoos in a cartoon style.  A merchandise order form was also included with the album, listing an array of official Kiss merchandise as well as a chance to "enlist" in the Kiss Army. 

The 5 new songs on side D are tracks were recorded live without an audience at Capitol Theatre in Passaic, New Jersey, and overdubbed and mixed at Electric Lady Studios in New York City in September 13-16, 1977.

Tracklisting:

A1        Detroit Rock City    3:45
A2        King Of The Night Time World    3:05
A3        Ladies Room    3:30
A4        Makin' Love    3:15
A5        Love Gun    3:30

B1        Calling Dr. Love    3:15
B2        Christine Sixteen    2:45
B3        Shock Me    4:30
B4        Hard Luck Woman    3:00
B5        Tomorrow And Tonight    3:30

C1        I Stole Your Love    3:25
C2        Beth    2:20
C3        God Of Thunder    5:10
C4        I Want You    4:20
C5        Shout It Out Loud    3:21

D1        All American Man    3:12
D2        Rockin' In The USA    2:35
D3        Larger Than Life    3:58
D4        Rocket Ride    4:06
D5        Any Way You Want It   2:33

Recording line-up:

Paul Stanley - vocals, rhythm guitar (all guitars and bass on "Any Way You Want It")
Gene Simmons - vocals, bass (rhythm guitar on "Larger Than Life")
Peter Criss - drums, vocals
Ace Frehley - lead guitar, vocals (all guitars and bass on "Rocket Ride")

Additional personnel:

Eddie Balandas - introduction on "Detroit Rock City"
Bob Kulick - lead guitar on "All American Man", "Rockin' In The U.S.A" and "Larger Than Life"

Watch the official long version promotional trailer for the album here: