Peter Criss, the original KISS drummer, will release a new solo album in fall 2025, his first since 2007. The 79-year-old Rock & Roll Hall of Famer announced the project on the KissFAQ podcast's YouTube channel, hosted by Julian Gill. Known as "The Catman," Criss promised a "hard-rock, kick-ass album" for the KISS Army.
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Criss shared details on PeterCriss.net and in the KissFAQ interview. The album, co-produced by Barry Pointer, features guitarists John 5 and Michael McLaughlin, bassists Billy Sheehan and Matthew Montgomery (Piggy D.), and keyboardist Paul Shaffer. Backup vocalists Dennis and Sharron Collins, plus Cathryn Manning of Cat5, enhance the sound. "We had a ball," Criss said, celebrating the all-star lineup.
Gill, who previewed the album in Criss' studio, called it "vibrant and powerful." He praised Criss' "massive" drum sound and "powerful" vocals. Pointer's production is "stunning," Gill noted, predicting KISS fans will love the "powerful songs."
Criss told Rolling Stone he had "an absolute blast" recording. He plans more interviews closer to the release and looks forward to connecting with fans, he added. The album revisits the hard rock energy of his KISS hits like "Beth," distinct from his 2007 release, One for All.
Album Builds on Legendary Career
Criss has released five solo albums, beginning with his 1978 self-titled debut while in KISS. His last, One for All, mixed rock, jazz, and Broadway covers. The new album channels his KISS-era intensity, promising a raw, high-energy sound. Criss parted ways with KISS in 1980, rejoined for a 1990s reunion, and last appeared with the band at their 2014 Hall of Fame induction. He retired from touring in 2017 after a New York show at The Cutting Room.
On April 25, Criss received the Raven Drum Foundation's Legacy Award at The Cutting Room in New York. Hosted by Def Leppard's Rick Allen and Lauren Monroe, the event featured Joe and Albert Bouchard, Mickey Curry, Corky Laing, Bernard Purdie, Ricky Byrd, and Kasim Sulton. The foundation supports veterans and first responders through music-based wellness workshops.
At any rate, Criss' new album is sure to captivate KISS fans. More details will emerge as the release approaches.
