Exploring Kiss’ Uncharted Live Territory: Off the Soundboard – Live in San Antonio
One of the less documented periods of Kiss’ extensive live performance history shines brightly with the release of their latest entry in the official bootleg series, Off the Soundboard: Live in San Antonio. This release offers fans a raw and authentic glimpse into a concert from the band’s 1985 Asylum tour, a show that had previously evaded inclusion in their numerous live albums and home videos.
A Raw and Authentic Experience
Unlike the heavily produced 1975 classic Alive!, known for its studio edits and enhancements, this recording is stripped of overdubs, pitch corrections, and artificial crowd noise. The result is an unfiltered audio experience that captures the band in their true form. Fortunately, there are minimal missteps; the group sounds both powerful and precise as they navigate a setlist dominated by tracks from their ’80s albums, including Creatures of the Night and Animalize.
Highlight Performances
One standout moment in the performance is the emotionally charged rendition of “I Still Love You,” where lead vocalist Paul Stanley and lead guitarist Bruce Kulick deliver compelling performances that resonate with the audience. However, the overall energy of the concert is characterized by a frenetic pace, as the band often opts to amp up song tempos to their limits—sometimes at the expense of the original feel of their classic tracks.
The ’80s Kiss Experience
During the concert, the band’s strategy for maintaining onstage energy is evident, particularly in how they handle their original ’70s hits like “Detroit Rock City” and “Love Gun.” The acceleration of tempos sometimes detracts from the classic swagger that fans have come to love. Moreover, the soundboard recording’s lack of crowd reaction can be distracting, especially since Stanley and bassist Gene Simmons frequently engage the audience in call-and-response segments throughout the show.
Stanley’s Stage Presence
Stanley’s stage antics, which include playful yet over-the-top banter, further contribute to the unique atmosphere of this performance. His comedic “bad boy” persona shines through as he makes tongue-in-cheek comments, comparing his masculinity to various weapons and provocatively asking the audience, “How many people like to put things in their mouth?”
Instrumental Excess and the Kiss Formula
Fans of Kiss will find themselves squarely in the ’80s during the extended instrumental solos that occupy a significant portion of the 93-minute show. These segments, featuring drum and bass solos alongside guitar showcases from Stanley and Kulick, consume about 20 minutes but are emblematic of the band’s penchant for theatricality and excess. While some may find this indulgent, it’s a quintessential part of the Kiss experience.
Conclusion: A Captivating Glimpse into Kiss’ Legacy
Overall, Off the Soundboard: Live in San Antonio serves as a compelling document of one of Kiss’ most robust ’80s lineups, capturing a lively show in a captivating and unpolished manner. For fans, it’s a delightful exploration of a crucial yet often overlooked chapter in the band’s storied career.
FAQs
What is the significance of the ‘Off the Soundboard’ series?
The ‘Off the Soundboard’ series provides fans with authentic live recordings straight from the soundboard, offering a raw and unedited experience of the band’s performances.
Why is the San Antonio show from 1985 noteworthy?
This show is significant because it captures a performance from the Asylum tour, a period that has not been extensively documented in Kiss’ official releases.
Are there any notable performances in the album?
Yes, “I Still Love You” is highlighted as a particularly strong performance, showcasing the talents of Paul Stanley and Bruce Kulick.
How does this release differ from previous live albums like Alive!?
Unlike Alive!, which was heavily edited and produced, this recording is presented without overdubs or pitch correction, offering a more authentic live experience.
What can listeners expect in terms of song tempo and energy?
Listeners can expect a high-energy performance with accelerated tempos, particularly in newer material, while some of the classic ’70s songs may lose some of their original charm due to this approach.
