Quick Read
- Peter Criss released his sixth solo album ‘Peter Criss’ on December 19, 2025, his first in 18 years.
- Kiss received the Kennedy Center Honor, with Criss attending but mourning the recent loss of Ace Frehley.
- Criss clarified he is not charging $1,000 for his album download; the price was set by a third party to discourage digital sales.
Peter Criss Returns with New Album at 80
Few musicians embody the spirit of resilience quite like Peter Criss, Kiss’s original Catman. On December 19, 2025, just a day before his 80th birthday, Criss released his sixth solo album, simply titled “Peter Criss” on Silvercat Records. This marks his first solo release in 18 years, a moment he describes as a heartfelt return to his musical roots. Criss co-produced the 11-track record with Barry Pointer, enlisting an impressive lineup: guitarists John 5 and Mike McLaughlin, Billy Sheehan on bass, and Paul Shaffer on keyboards. Piggy D, known for his work with Marilyn Manson and Rob Zombie, contributes bass on one track and designed the album’s package.
Criss’s journey to this new album wasn’t straightforward. The initial recordings began back in 2008, then sat shelved for years. During the pandemic, McLaughlin—whom Criss affectionately calls Angel—encouraged him to revisit the project. The enthusiasm from John 5 and the renewed energy from Criss himself brought the album to life, with most vocals and arrangements rebuilt from scratch. “We all had a great time, and we all had a part in it. It was like having a dream band,” Criss shared in an interview with Cleveland.com.
Kennedy Center Honor: A Lifetime Achievement
Just days before the album’s release, Kiss received one of the nation’s highest cultural accolades: the Kennedy Center Honor. The December 7 ceremony, televised on CBS later that month, was a surreal experience for Criss. Raised in Brooklyn’s tough neighborhoods, he described standing in the Oval Office as “overwhelming” and “really an honor.” He reflected, “I’m a big history buff, so I couldn’t believe I was in the room that Roosevelt, Lincoln, Kennedy, all the great presidents worked in.” Criss emphasized that the recognition was a far cry from Kiss’s early days of face paint and pyrotechnics, saying, “Never in my wildest dreams! I really worked hard for this award.”
Despite the celebratory occasion, there was a shadow: Ace Frehley, Kiss’s legendary lead guitarist and Criss’s close friend, passed away in October. Criss spoke candidly about the loss: “I really miss my brother Ace; we were extremely close. I’m still mourning him. I still can’t believe he’s gone. It’s been very hard.” Frehley’s family attended the event, and Criss sat beside Ace’s empty chair, draped with the medal he would have received.
Album Sale Rumors: The Truth Behind the $1,000 Price Tag
As excitement for the new album grew, confusion erupted online over its digital pricing. Fans noticed that Criss’s Bandcamp page listed the digital version for a staggering $1,000, sparking rumors that the rock icon was charging exorbitant prices. Criss swiftly addressed the issue, explaining via social media that he was not in control of the Bandcamp account—Flatiron Recordings was. The high price was intended to discourage digital purchases, with physical versions of the album available for much more reasonable prices ($32.98 for vinyl, $14.98 for CD). “I apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and for the misinformation and implication that I am charging $1,000 for a download of my New record – I am Not,” Criss clarified. He directed fans to his official website for trusted outlets, emphasizing transparency and appreciation for his supporters (eddietrunk.com).
Looking Forward: The Catman’s Next Steps
Criss’s new album is a promise kept to his fans, delivering the rock energy they’ve longed for since his last release. The record spans styles, from classic rock to touches of political commentary—a reflection of Criss’s evolving perspective. “Music is so powerful, as you know. You can really pour your heart and soul into something…and I did. I hope my fans love it,” he said. While he’s open to performing live if the album resonates with fans, Criss admits that drumming at 80 isn’t as easy as it used to be. Still, he plays regularly and remains in good health, apart from some arthritis.
On the future of Kiss, Criss is philosophical. With Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley having retired Kiss from touring, he muses, “My mom used to say, ‘You never know what’s around the corner.’ I don’t know with those guys. We don’t keep in touch. I’m just happy to get up every day, thank God, and go down to the studio and make some music.”
Meanwhile, the Kennedy Center itself found its own moment in the spotlight, with President Trump’s hosting and subsequent social media buzz. While Criss avoided political commentary, the Honors ceremony became a trending topic, reflecting both the cultural and political intersections of American music in 2025 (Cleveland.com, AOL).
The story of Peter Criss in 2025 is not just one of survival, but of renewal—a testament to the enduring power of music and the unbreakable bonds of friendship. As he celebrates his 80th birthday, Criss proves that the heart of rock and roll beats strongest in those who never stop creating, remembering, and dreaming.