The MidFlorida Credit Union Amphitheater was filled with 14,000 fans of Kiss’ Army to welcome the troops back to Tampa, Florida on the The Final Tour Ever – End of the Road World Tour! For many in attendance it was their last time (Possibly) to see Kiss as it was announced this was the last tour. For others it was their first time seeing Kiss. Either way, for the past 48 years this band never disappoints.
Led Zeppelin’s “Rock N’ Roll” came blaring over the PA System as the stage was concealed by a large Kiss curtain. The audience went into pandemonium! Then the curtain dropped and the band descended from the rafters amidst sparks and flames. It was an incredible spectacle. Then Kiss blasted into “Detroit Rock City” and the party was started. The crowd remained on their feet and were singing along through the complete performance. The sparks, flames and cannon fire continued throughout the show, as with every Kiss concert.
The costumes were great, the Starchild (Paul Stanley), the Demon (Gene Simmons), the Spaceman (Eric Thayer), and the Catman (Eric Singer). The personas are pure marketing genus from the band. Watching them on stage was timeless as the personas never age. I think they actually could do this another 10 years!
This is hard core entertainment and if this is truly the last tour I am glad to have finally witnessed it. I’m not sure why I have waited so long. All I know is “Calling Dr. Love” has been in my head for two days now. As they say, “You Wanted the Best, You Got the Best!!
Band:
Paul Stanley – Rhythm Guitar/Vocals
Gene Simmons – Bass/Vocals
Eric Singer – Drums- Drums
Tommy Thayer – Lead Guitar/Vocals
Setlist:
Encore:
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Photographer and Editor/Founder of AllMusicMagazine.com. My love of live music has taken me to incredible experiences with the top bands of all time in stadium shows to the smallest venues with equally inspiring musicians. Using the medium of photography and my publication, these memories will last forever.
