KISS - "Animalize" (1984)



Rating: C

Pros:

  1. Energetic and Catchy Tracks: "Animalize" delivers a high-energy performance with several catchy and anthemic rock tracks. Songs like "Heaven's on Fire" and "Thrills in the Night" are infectious and showcase KISS at their best in terms of creating radio-friendly, hook-laden rock.

  2. Mark St. John's Guitar Work: Guitarist Mark St. John's technically impressive and shredding guitar solos add a new dimension to KISS's sound. His virtuosic playing style injects a fresh dose of excitement into the album.

  3. Commercial Success: "Animalize" was commercially successful, helping to revitalize KISS's career during a period when they were experimenting with their lineup and sound. It reached platinum status, and "Heaven's on Fire" remains a fan favorite to this day.

Cons:

  1. Lack of Cohesion: "Animalize" suffers from a lack of thematic or sonic cohesion. The album seems somewhat disjointed, with songs that don't flow together well. This lack of consistency hampers the overall listening experience.

  2. Inconsistent Songwriting: While the album boasts some strong tracks, it also contains several forgettable and formulaic songs that lack the depth and creativity found in KISS's earlier work. It feels as though the band was aiming for commercial success at the expense of their signature style.

  3. Absence of Gene Simmons: Bassist and vocalist Gene Simmons's limited involvement in the album is noticeable. His unique presence and songwriting contributions are notably absent on "Animalize," which detracts from the band's overall dynamic.

"Animalize" is a mixed bag in KISS's discography. While it offers a dose of high-octane rock energy and showcases Mark St. John's impressive guitar skills, it falls short in terms of thematic cohesion and songwriting consistency. The absence of Gene Simmons's influence also leaves a noticeable gap in the album's sound. It's clear that KISS was trying to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the mid-1980s, and while they achieved commercial success with "Animalize," it may not fully satisfy die-hard fans who appreciated the band's earlier, more iconic work. Consequently, "Animalize" receives a three-star rating for its moments of glory and some evident shortcomings.

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