Classic Album Review: KISS ‘Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions’

KISS 'Carnival of Souls: The Final Sessions' - Cover Photo

Rating: 6 / 10 Stars

KISS is: KISS is Paul Stanley (guitar/vocals), Gene Simmons (bass/vocals), Bruce Kulick (lead guitar/vocals), Eric Singer (drums/vocals)

REVIEW – Released in 1997, ‘Carnival of Souls’ represents a unique chapter in KISS’s discography. Coming before their celebrated reunion, the album reflects a transitional period for the band, where they experimented with a darker, grungier sound, diverging from their classic glam-rock style. This experimentation was partly influenced by the changing musical landscape of the 90s, dominated by grunge and alternative rock.

The album was initially shelved due to the reunion and was released later, adding to its unconventional status in the KISS catalog. ‘Carnival of Souls’ was seen as an attempt by the band to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving music scene, leading to a sound distinctly different from their earlier work.

In ‘Carnival of Souls,’ KISS presents a varied musical journey. Gene Simmons opens with “Hate,” setting an intense, gritty tone with deep vocals and aggressive riffs, showcasing a different KISS style. “Rain,” led by Paul Stanley, melds classic rock with grunge, highlighted by Stanley’s dynamic vocals and Bruce Kulick’s impactful guitar. “Master & Slave” continues this trend, blending hard rock with grunge elements, while “Childhood’s End,” another Simmons track, offers reflective lyrics with a robust arrangement.

The album shifts with “I Will Be There,” a Stanley-led ballad that highlights the band’s softer, more emotive side. “Jungle” stands out with its catchy chorus, successfully fusing classic KISS with the album’s grungier sound. “In My Head” and “It Never Goes Away” delve deeper into introspective themes, featuring Simmons and Stanley’s powerful vocals against a backdrop of heavy, grunge-influenced sounds.

“Seduction of the Innocent” and “I Confess” are complex tracks led by Simmons, exploring thoughtful, somber themes. “In the Mirror” sees Stanley’s vocals combining classic KISS rock with the album’s darker tone. Closing the album, “I Walk Alone” features Bruce Kulick on lead vocals, leaving a memorable mark with its unique sound and poignant performance.

In conclusion, ‘Carnival of Souls’ is an intriguing yet polarizing entry in KISS’s discography. It represents a bold but not entirely successful attempt to redefine the band’s sound in the face of the 90s grunge movement. The album lacks the cohesiveness and raw energy of their iconic albums, rating a 6 out of 10.

Ultimately, ‘Carnival of Souls’ is significant for illustrating KISS’s willingness to experiment and adapt to changing musical trends. However, its divergence from the classic KISS style left many fans divided, making it a fascinating, albeit unconventional, part of the band’s musical journey.