It’s always so hard to say goodbye. Especially, when it comes to our musical heroes. The ones that we grew up with during our most formative years and were part of shaping who we are today. Last night in Sacramento, KISS put on their last show ever in Sacramento, as part of their farewell tour, and although it was a solemn occasion, the way it went down was pure class.
The show started with all four members of the band lowering down from the ceiling on individual platforms. All were sporting their iconic makeup and outfits, walking rather proficiently around the stage on jumbo platform black spiked studded platform shoes. Well into their 60s it was shocking to see how well the rockers looked and moved. Kudos to Paul Stanley whose chiseled arms were highlighted by the skin-tight black spandex ensemble that he chose for the occasion.
The foursome kicked things off with their unforgettable classic “Detroit Rock City.” And as the last lick of the song echoed throughout the arena, the audience filled with three generations of KISS fans – many of whom had copied the quartet’s traditional makeup – responded with an uncontrolled cheer.
Following that were equally stellar performances of “Shout it Out Loud,” “Deuce,” “Say Yeah,” and the 80s megahit “Lick it Up.” The concert was two hours packed with classic hard rock songs laced with impressive fireworks and pyros (including the legendary Gene Simmons fire breathing that’s always been a fan favorite.) It was everything a KISS show should be and more.
But in the end, the show had to come to an end. And after four encores which included their biggest hit to date “Rock n Roll All Nite,” and a touching version of “Beth,” the curtain came down permanently for these legends of rock. Fans left the venue crushed knowing that this would indeed be the very last show in the state’s capital, but rejoicing in the fact that they got to spend one last night with their childhood heroes. A group of four New Yorkers armed with just a dream and a passion for Rock n’ Roll, which turned into three decades worth of unforgettable memories for their legions of fans.
Photos by Louis Raphael
