Original KISS drummer Peter Criss says his upcoming self-titled solo album represents one of the most personally fulfilling projects of his long career, and that he approached it with genuine joy and creative control. The record — simply titled Peter Criss — is set for release on December 19, 2025, and marks his first studio solo work since 2007’s One For All.
In a recent interview with Billboard, Criss explained he invested deeply in the recording process, bringing both his voice and his spirit to the forefront. “I put my heart and soul into it. My voice, I’m still singing like a bird… boy, am I lucky,” he said, emphasizing that the sessions were fun and creatively liberating. Criss added that listeners can even hear him laughing on the record, reflecting the relaxed, celebratory atmosphere of the studio.
Criss described the album’s vibe as reminiscent of earlier phases of his career, saying the experience reminded him of being “20 years old again” — a reference to the excitement and freedom he felt in his early days with KISS.
Star-Studded Collaborators and Co-Production
The new LP was co-produced by Criss and Barry Pointer, a producer known for his work with artists such as Ozzy Osbourne, John 5, and Mötley Crüe. The lineup of musicians helping bring the record to life reads like a rock fan’s dream: bassist Billy Sheehan, bassist/multi-instrumentalist Matthew Montgomery (Piggy D.), guitarists John 5 and Mike McLaughlin, and keyboardist Paul Shaffer all appear. Backing vocals are provided by Dennis and Sharon Collins along with Cat Manning of CAT 5.
The collaboration has given the album a rich texture and variety, from rollicking rockers to tracks with more serious themes. Criss told Billboard that the record “was like having a dream band” and that the energy of the sessions can be felt throughout the music.
New Music With Depth and Range
Musically and lyrically, Criss says the album spans a wide emotional and stylistic range. He aimed to blend classic rock elements with songs that address more modern issues. “There’s a little bit of everything in there,” he said, noting that now, in his later years, he wanted to write not just about love and rock ’n’ roll but also politics and personal experience.
One standout track is “Walking on Water,” which Criss says is inspired by his own battle with cancer and his gratitude for surviving that challenge — a theme that gives the song extra emotional weight. Other songs touch on topics like justice, money and mortality, while some lean into straight-ahead rock energy.
First Solo Record in Nearly Two Decades
Peter Criss will be Criss’s first solo album in 18 years, following One For All in 2007. That earlier record featured a blend of rock, jazz and blues influences and included several well-known guest artists.
To mark the new album’s release, Criss is planning a signing event on December 19, 2025, at Rough Trade Below in New York City’s Rockefeller Center, where he will greet fans and sign copies of the album. Fans were invited to RSVP for the event, which runs from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. local time.
Looking Ahead: Touring and Beyond
When asked whether he would consider performing live in support of the new album, Criss sounded open to the idea. He noted that he still enjoys playing the drums regularly and is in reasonably good physical condition despite a bit of arthritis, suggesting that doing a few shows or appearances wouldn’t be out of the question if the reception is strong.
A Legacy Beyond the Catman
Criss, often associated with his “Catman” persona from his time in KISS, has had a varied career outside the band. In addition to his drumming with KISS, he provided lead vocals on classics such as “Beth”, “Black Diamond” and “Hard Luck Woman”. After first leaving the band in 1980, he reunited with them for reunion tours in the 1990s and early 2000s before focusing more on solo work.
As he approaches his 80th birthday — interestingly just a day after his album drops — Criss sounds both reflective and energized, eager to share a project that has clearly meant a great deal to him personally and creatively.
