On September 22, 1983 "Kiss" released their 11th studio album "Lick It Up".
The album marks a significant turning point for "Kiss", as it's the first album where the band fully embraced their unmasked identity. Before its 1983 release, the band members appeared on MTV without their trademark make-up. It was the first public appearance without make-up by the band.
It was also the first album not to feature Ace Frehley as a band member nor on the album cover. As well known, Ace Frehley had appeared on the "Creatures of the Night" cover, despite having already left the band and not being involved in the recording of the album, While Vinnie Vincent contributed lead guitar to six songs from it.
This album was a bold move following the commercial and critical decline of their previous records. The shedding of their iconic makeup signified a rebirth, and "Lick It Up" played a major role in reviving their career.
Musically, the album fits squarely within the glam metal and hard rock aesthetic of the early '80s, featuring powerful riffs, thundering drums (the heavy reverb on Carr's drums was a unique sound not previously heard on a "Kiss" albums), and anthemic choruses. It's a continuation of the sound developed on "Creatures of the Night", but with a cleaner, more polished production. Vinnie Vincent, who co-wrote many of the songs and played lead guitar, brought fresh energy to the band's sound, particularly in his explosive guitar solos.
The title track, "Lick It Up," is the undisputed highlight, with its catchy, singalong chorus and straightforward rock groove. It's one of the few tracks from the non-makeup era that became a "Kiss" classic, regularly featured in their live shows to this day. It is a staple of the band's live performances. "Kiss" has performed the song over 1,500 times as of June 2023, making it one of the group's top ten most-played pieces.
Songs like the opening track "Exciter" (featuring a guitar solo from Rick Derringer), "Young and Wasted" and "Fits Like A Glove", showcase "Kiss’s" heavier side, with Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons delivering some of their best vocal performances. "All Hell's Breakin' Loose" (which all four members wrote) adds a slightly quirky, rap-influenced vocal delivery from Stanley, making it one of the more unique tracks on the album. Vinnie Vincent's contributions are also evident in "A Million to One," which brings a more melodic and emotional side to "Kiss's" sound, balancing the heavier moments with its heartfelt lyrics.
The album’s overall vibe is unapologetically raw, embodying the hard rock excess of the time. While "Lick It Up" might not reach the critical heights of their '70s classics like "Destroyer" or "Love Gun", it succeeded in re-establishing "Kiss" as relevant players in the rock scene, especially during the rise of glam metal. The record is fun, riff-heavy, and full of attitude—just what "Kiss" needed to break out of their slump.
Ultimately, "Lick It Up" helped "Kiss" transition into their next phase while maintaining the rebellious spirit that fans love. it introduced "Kiss" to a new generation of fans, as well as marking the beginning of the "unmasked" era. It was certified gold, being the first "Kiss" album to achieve that since 1980's "Unmasked".
For Listening: Spotify, Apple Music
Comentários