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They are self-proclaimed “Beatles on steroids” who play superheroes in their own comic book, hold press conferences on US warships, aren’t afraid to spar with Nine Inch Nails’ frontman Trent Reznor, and are strongly averse to internet piracy (“anything that’s free becomes useless”). US metal act Kiss might not be subtle but, by Thor’s mighty hammer, are they incredibly successful.

Whether you term them “heavy metal” or “hard rock”, it matters not. From their formation in 1973, Kiss have straddled various boundaries and gone through quite a few line-up changes, with Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley (pictured) the two remaining original members.

Viewed in certain quarters as jokers in the metal-mayhem pack, and criticised for their dependence on wow-factor special effects, pyrotechnics, tongue-waggling and comic book make-up, Kiss still continue to pack them in. Sonic Boom, their new album, is unapologetically business as usual: no airs, graces, ignoring trends. Fair enough, yes?

can’T see ThaT? caTch This

Rod Stewart Tues/Wed, Dublin