My favorite all-time Kiss cover is Garth Brooks' version of "Hard Luck Woman." When i first heard the tune sung by the country great, it reminded me that underneath all that make-up and glimmer, Kiss were really great songwriters. I must admit I was never a true fanatic. Fact: While most of my young friends were hardcore KISS ARMY, I was a little more into Elton John as a youth-don't shoot me I only write this stuff...!). But I always enjoyed their shtick. And a little "Cold Gin" here and there never hurt.
Some people are a little more devoted. That would include my good friend Kenny Serrano. Kenny, a lifelong KISS ARMY guy, has been wearing the Kiss make-up since he was a youngster at Banta Elementary School. I've seen the pictures that prove it. Kenny does a mean Gene. He's a great bass player, showman and his singing ain't so bad either. And you should see what he can do with fire and blood.
He has been in a couple of different Kiss tribute bands and tons of other bands. One of the early Kiss bands had a shy Paul Stanley.
However, his most recent and successful Kiss tribute band is called Destroyer. They have serious chops and put on a really fun show. Everything you would expect from a Kiss tribute band-The make-up, the boots, lots of blood and even bit of fire.
The group recently headlined at The Great American Music Hall in San Francisco. Did you know this place was named one of the top ten music venues in the United States recenly? That's a pretty good gig!
Check 'em out the next time they come around and tell 'em that Gene's friend sent ya!
Destroyer w/The Butlers and Cruella
Great American Music Hall
San Francisco
