Search - Gene Simmons :: A**hole

An Embarrassment--Gene Could Do Much Better

David Smith | Northeast Tennessee | 05/23/2005

(2 out of 5 stars)

"Though like many other diehard KISS fans, I'd rather have a new release from the band instead of mediocre (at best) solo efforts from the individuals who make up the band I love more than any other. However, since a new KISS record doesn't seem likely, I will welcome any new music from Paul, Gene, or even Ace. (I can't stomach Peter's solo attempts.) So, when "A**hole" was released, I rushed out and bought it just as I would if a new KISS CD came out. Unfortunately, I was utterly disappointed with Gene's attempt. I have to agree with what other reviewers said of "A**hole;" besides being bad it sounds rushed. There are only a few glimmers of hope that make the CD tolerable. The title track is really catchy, and is probably the best and most complete song on the CD. The rest of the tracks either suck really hard or are barely acceptable. For example, Gene's rumored song-writing collaboration with Bob Dylan back in the late 1980s had me salivating at the thought of what would come of such an effort. Unfotunately, the resulting song--"Waiting for the Morning Light"--sounds like a throwaway, regardless of who wrote it. It's not a bad song, but it certainly isnt' good or memorable. "Carnival of Souls" isn't bad either, but it lacks any kind of sensible structure. The chorus is terrible, so the verses remain the only redeeming aspect of the song. Then, there's the deplorable "1,000 Dreams" that leaves me scratching my head. What is it with Gene and the number 1,000? As a metaphor, the number 1,000 is a lame representation of infinity. Gene, do us all a favour and concentrate on one thing at a time. Instead of releasing songs that are just half-a**ed, why not pour your heart and soul into a record (whether it be solo or with KISS) that will showcase the great talent that you are?"

Surprises from Gene in the vein of "Beth"

Catnip | Bolingbrook, IL USA | 07/22/2004

(4 out of 5 stars)

"Having just come from a KISS concert in Chicago, and having lost most of my hearing from the 11th row, perhaps it could be argued that my hearing IS permanently damaged, but I got a KICK out of this album--The rock is hard rock, the rest is, well, I love Gene's sense of humor, and it shows in this album, as well as his versatility. "Whatever Turns You On" reminds me of a Rolling Stones-style tune, and "Dog" is a sexy-beat, hilarious load of fun!!! Gene is truly a unique musician & person!"

A good classic album that grows on you

John Emm | New Jersey | 10/09/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Like one or two others, I gave this a "five" not because it's masterful and stacks up next to the Beatles or anything like that.



I give it five stars because it's the closest we get to hearing what Simmons can do when he cuts loose of his KISS image. That's hard for him to do, apparently, and this CD is a lot of fun.



I hear strains of Harry Nilsson and World Party in here. "Whatever Turns You On" sounds like it fell off the soundtrack to "Car Wash" but I like it a lot. "1,000 Dreams" is intentionally syrupy but it's very charming and the schmaltziness suits it. Don't wince at the comparison, but if it had been on a Beatles album we'd all be humming it right now. And before you go telling me the Beatles wouldn't have recorded it listen to "Martha My Dear," "She's Leaving Home," "Rocky Raccoon" etc. before you speak too soon.



Good fun, this disc, and musically very interesting."