KISS: Going Retro For "Monster" Recording Session

KISS are turning back the clock for the recording of their new album, ‘Monster,’ which should be out by the summer of 2012. The band is bucking the trend of using digital recording gear, opting instead for the retro experience of old analog equipment and a stripped-down approach. In other words, don’t expect any outside writers, extra keyboards or superfluous children’s choruses this time around.

“Technology is a seductive bitch, she will seduce you,” Gene Simmons  tells Mojo magazine. “You press this button, you don’t have to do anything. But analog is the love of your life. You can push real hard and it always gives back. For the new album, the actual recording process was 24-track tape and an old Trident board. And as many tubes as possible. You need tubes, electricity and thick wood to make that thick sound.”

KISS are planning to hit the road in support of ‘Monster’ next year as well. Although plans for the trek are tentative, Simmons promises a whole new level of extreme concert going experience. “If you can bear it, there will be even more kick-in-the-nuts effects,” he insists. “We’ve had many effects on-stage [over the years], but now we plan to bring the action to you. We’ll have to start making seats with safety harnesses, so people can buckle in.”