Released in 1982, Creatures Of The Night marked a pivotal moment in the storied career of KISS. The band, facing challenges and lineup changes, unleashed an album that not only revitalised their sound but also solidified their status as rock and roll legends. With their last truly epic album being the 1979 release, Dynasty, KISS returned to their hard rock foundations with Creatures Of The Night; a sound that was refreshing at the time and is ultimately timeless even when appreciating the album some four decades after its initial release.
Part of the appeal is due to the production of the album as Paul Stanley and Gene Simmons, along with co-producer, Michael James Jackson, were able to successfully capture the raw energy of KISS' live performances while maintaining studio precision. The result is a highly polished, yet edgy, production that allows each musical element to shine.
While there is never any guarantee as to the sonic prowess and stature of remastered releases, the 2022 remaster of Creatures Of The Night is superb. Sure, some will complain that it isn’t as dynamic as the original analogue releases of the album, but in all honesty, it rocks! As such, it’s a fun, lively listen, that I could listen to on repeat for hours on end.
While the lossless stereo mix is my preferred edition of the album, the Dolby Atmos mix, via Apple Music, is a little muddy in the low end and lacks instrument separation as a result. That said, on some tracks the surround mix does enhance the music, but the question that has to be asked is if it makes the album more compelling. The short answer is: No. The Atmos mix is fuller, less treble-focused, and as such reminds me fondly of the sound that I’d get from high-quality compact cassettes. That, of course, doesn’t mean that I dislike the surround option; anything but, I just find myself gravitating to the stereo mix more often as it simply sounds right.
Creatures Of The Night serves as a powerful opener, setting the tone with its thunderous drums, blistering guitar riffs, and anthemic vocal delivery by Stanley.
Saint And Sinner has a swagger about it that becomes infectious. While it’s a run-of-the-mill rock tune, the groove is catchy enough that you’ll find Saint And Sinner quickly becomes an earworm; an unlikely one, but one nonetheless. The guitar work, including Simmon’s bass, is some of the greatest on any KISS recording as it becomes the driving force behind the song.
Keep Me Comin’ is a killer tune that’s KISS 101. With soaring instrumentals throughout, compelling vocals, and an addictive harmonious chorus; what’s not to like? Yes, those who don’t like glam metal may find it to not be to their tastes, but rather than focus on influences and subgenres, I much prefer to rock out to this dose of raw, unbridled rock.
Rock And Roll Hell is magical! That bass guitar entry is what bass guitar dreams are made of and I’m so glad that Simmons was the lead singer on this tune for it suits his style perfectly and simply wouldn’t have worked if Stanley had been the vocalist. Most interesting, however, is that Bryan Adams co-wrote the song with Simmons and Jim Vallance. While Adams is an accomplished rock star in his own right, he was still in his infancy when this song was written and it’s a masterpiece if there ever was one.
Danger is fast-paced, adrenaline-fueled, and is one of KISS’ most relentless tracks as it relates to raw intensity. It’s a killer tune that continues to grow on you the more you listen to the album.
I Love It Loud has an interesting fade-out, similarly styled to The Beatles’ Helter Skelter. While it’s a recognised recording technique, and it works exceptionally well, I’m not entirely sure that it was necessary as it doesn’t add anything to the song. Subsequently, I feel it would have been better had this element been omitted, but that doesn’t change the fact that I Love It Loud is a quintessential KISS anthem, with a chanting chorus and thunderous rhythm, that makes it an instant classic.
I Still Love You slows the tempo as it’s the only power ballad to be included on Creatures Of The Night. While many fans prefer KISS for their pure rock numbers, I must admit that I love a good power ballad and this is no exception for it not only works well within the album’s structure, but it’s perfectly suited to Stanley’s incredible vocal range.
Killer returns the album to its high-energy, riff-driven, sound that defines the album and is a quintessential B-side.
War Machine closes the album with a bang and is so addictive that you’ll find yourself quickly playing the album again. The militaristic drumming and aggressive guitar riffs reinforce the overall theme and leave a lasting impression. While numerous songs could be declared as the best song in KISS’ extensive catalogue, War Machine is right at the top of any list for it doesn’t matter if you experience it via Creatures Of The Night, or in concert, you’re going to be blown away with the attitude of this incredible song.
Creatures Of The Night was a much-needed return to form for KISS following the lacklustre Unmasked and the downright atrocious Music From “The Elder”. The impact from Creatures Of The Night reverberated through the 80s, influencing the glam and hair metal bands that followed but ultimately showcased that KISS still had it, along with the ability to evolve while staying true to their rock roots. Creatures Of The Night is, subsequently, a must-listen for both die-hard fans and those looking to explore the diverse landscape of 80s rock music.