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Despite closing the book on touring more than two years ago, KISS isn’t slowing down. Guitarist Tommy Thayer says the band remains deeply involved in new projects, even if life on the road is over.
Speaking with MusicRadar, Thayer explained that while KISS has retired from touring, there’s still significant activity happening behind the scenes. He pointed to last month’s fan-focused event, KISS Kruise: Landlocked in Vegas, as proof that demand for the band remains strong. According to Thayer, the Las Vegas gathering exceeded expectations and could easily become a recurring event.
When asked about the possibility of new music, Thayer said nothing has been finalized but emphasized that creative energy within the band hasn’t faded. He noted that future releases would depend on how plans develop over the next year or two, adding that the group still has ideas and motivation to create.
Fellow KISS co-founder Paul Stanley has echoed that cautious optimism. In recent comments to TMZ, Stanley said new music remains a possibility, though he stressed that any project would need to feel authentic to the band’s legacy. He described a hypothetical sound as classic rock with rhythm and energy, centered on familiar KISS themes like freedom, confidence, and living life fully.
Stanley expanded on those thoughts during a Q&A at the Las Vegas KISS Kruise event, revealing that he has been writing — a signal that new material may be more than just talk. However, he also acknowledged that many ideas never make it to release.
KISS hasn’t released a full studio album since Monster, which debuted at No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Its predecessor, Sonic Boom, remains the band’s highest-charting album to date.
In past interviews, Stanley and bassist Gene Simmons have expressed skepticism about the value of releasing new albums in today’s music industry, citing changing listening habits and limited financial incentives. Still, their recent comments suggest a subtle shift — from outright doubt to cautious openness.
KISS recently returned to the stage for the Las Vegas event, delivering an acoustic set followed by their first unmasked electric performance on land in three decades. Joined by former guitarist Bruce Kulick for select songs, the show marked a rare and symbolic return after the band’s End of the Road farewell tour concluded at Madison Square Garden.
SOURCE: Blabbermouth