Paul Stanley of KISS describes it as “surreal” to go from touring, while praising the band’s “amazing” next Avatar performance
The most recent episode of Steve-O’s Wild Ride podcast showcased KISS lead vocalist Paul Stanley. In the conversation, the veteran rocker contemplated the conclusion of KISS’s touring period while also addressing the band’s future plans, especially their much awaited avatar performance. Host Steve-O inquired of Stanley his sentiments regarding KISS’s assertion that their performance concluding the End of the Road farewell tour in December 2023 was their final show.
“It is undeniably astonishing for me,” stated the 72-year-old Rock & Roll Hall of Famer. “Nevertheless, it is logical.” It was logical. Athletes cannot sustain their performance indefinitely, and in certain respects, this applies equally to us. Whether through vocal performance or physical movement on stage, such activities cannot be sustained indefinitely.
He stated, “[I]t was the ideal moment for us to present the final performance that would serve not only as a farewell and expression of gratitude but also to finalize all details.” Stanley stated, “This tour aimed to allow individuals to reflect, ‘Once upon a time, there existed a band,’ you know?” … It is weird to abandon it. Nevertheless, the band might persist in numerous diverse manifestations. Consequently, it will develop.
KISS’ Avatar Performance
KISS intends to evolve through the avatar show presented during their final engagement. KISS has collaborated with George Lucas’ Industrial Light and Magic and Pophouse Entertainment, the Swedish firm responsible for the acclaimed ABBA Voyage virtual performance in London, to develop the forthcoming multimedia presentation. Stanley informed Steve-O, “[W]hat we shall be undertaking with these remarkable avatars … will elevate us to an other realm, a higher echelon.
KISS announced their forthcoming avatar show by releasing a preview video showcasing the virtual representations of the band members. The pictures, featuring Gene Simmons with demon wings, garnered severe media criticism; however, Stanley asserted that the representations in the film were basic and that those in the live performance would be significantly enhanced.
“I experienced ambivalence regarding the presentation of those initial images, as they are from an early stage,” Stanley stated. “They bear no resemblance to that.” The avatars resemble us. The intention behind the teaser film was to convey that we will progress and persist, but in a different manner.
Paul subsequently announced, “[W]hat we are developing with George Lucas and Pophouse … is an immersive experience featuring heat, fire, wind, and various elements in motion. … It is akin to a fusion of Cirque du Soleil, Star Wars, and a KISS concert. Consequently, it will be extraordinary.
KISS is also planning a biographical film.
Stanley said that a KISS biopic is being developed in collaboration with Netflix. He observed that the band meticulously selected appropriate contributors for the project to ensure the film’s utmost excellence.
“We could have produced a film many years ago, but one only has one opportunity, and I would prefer to forgo it than to create a subpar project,” Stanley remarked. “We all recall Kiss Meets the Phantom,” referencing the 1978 animated sci-fi/horror television film featuring the band.
Paul stated, “The individuals we associate with and who have facilitated our progress are those with whom we have invested considerable time, hold in high regard, and possess significant trust.”