One night in September, 1988, myself and a good friend stood in the queue waiting to get into the arena at The National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham (UK) to see a band we had both fell in love with about 18 months previous. As an over excited 16 year old boy who had listened to this band and watched all the videos in awe.. at last got the chance to see my musical hero’s live and in the raw. Now fast forward 30 something years later, I join the queue at the same arena now known as Resorts World Arena, for one last KISS ‘The End Of The Road Tour.’ As many of the loyal I did my best to see them every time they hit UK shores, only missing them once, due to getting married on the same day.
After been suitably warmed up by tour supports acts ‘The Wild Things‘ and ‘Skindred,’ we were now more than ready. As the lights go down, the arena erupts. “Alright Birmingham…You Wanted The Best…You Got The Best..The Hottest Band In The World…KISS..!!!” The curtain then drops to opener ‘Detroit Rock City.’ With lights, pyro, pyro and more pyro, another classic show was under way, briefly pausing then into ‘Shout It Out Loud.’ With a setlist which hasn’t really changed a great deal over last few years, it was great to hear the inclusion of ‘Makin Love’ and 100,000 years, for me personally it would have been great to hear a couple more of the old school tunes, Ladies Room, I Stole Your Love, Room Service ect, but totally understanding settling on all fan favourites. Deuce, Gold Gin, God of Thunder, Dr. Love, Lick It Up, Psycho Circus, Heavens On Fire, I Love It Loud all followed. Complete with Genes’ legendary Blood Spitting Bass Solo a Guitar dual, and a monumental drum solo from Eric Singer, tied it all together before Paul flew out across the arena floor for I Was Made For Loving You, then Black Diamond, Do You Love Me, Beth and explosive finale Rock n Roll All Nite. The whole band infectiously lapping up the atmosphere and their time together on stage from an idea to fruition started all those years ago. Que fireworks, pyro and Canon Confetti. Being over all to quickly, this yet another amazing show to add to all the others witnessed over the years. You can say what you like about KISS, love them or hate them, the legacy they leave behind and their mark made on the music scene is undeniable, and as witnessed tonight will undoubtably continue through generations to come.
