CRISS, PETER let me rock you 25S-121

Released in 1982, Let Me Rock You is the third solo studio album by the original KISS drummer, Peter Criss. Often regarded as his strongest solo effort outside the band, this record moved away from the soul and R&B leanings of his previous work toward a polished, high-energy AOR (Adult Oriented Rock) sound. Produced by Vini Poncia, who also worked on KISS albums like Dynasty and Unmasked, this release represents a transition period for Criss as he leaned into the slick production and melodic rock sensibilities of the early 1980s.

This 1982 Japanese pressing is a premier archival piece for KISS completists and vinyl collectors alike. As a promotional sample copy, it was produced in very limited quantities by Casablanca Records for radio station play and music critics. It is distinguished by the plain white promotional labels on the vinyl itself, replacing the standard Casablanca filmworks imagery. This first-press archival document also features the specific sample identification on the jacket, ensuring its status as one of the earliest copies off the master stampers.

The album is famous for its incredible lineup of guest musicians and songwriters, representing the elite of the 1980s session world.

Virtuoso Guitar Contributions
The record features guitar work from a legendary trio of players: Steve Lukather of TOTO, Michael Landau, and Steve Stevens. Their presence provides a sophisticated, technical edge to the arrangements, particularly on tracks like the Steve Stevens-penned First Day In The Rain.

KISS Family Connections
Several tracks maintain a direct link to the KISS legacy. The power ballad Tears was co-written by Adam Mitchell and Vinnie Cusano, who would later be known as Vinnie Vincent. Additionally, the track Feels Like Heaven was written by Criss’s former bandmate Gene Simmons, while Russ Ballard contributed the energetic Some Kinda’ Hurricane and the title track.

This Japanese edition remains complete with its full array of original physical components, which are vital for maintaining the record’s market value and historical context.

Obi Strip and Lyric Insert
The copy includes the original Casablanca Obi strip, a hallmark of Japanese retail excellence. Also included is the dedicated lyric insert, providing translated content for the Japanese audience and detailed credits for the extensive list of session musicians.

Manufacturing Quality
The 25S-121 pressing benefits from the high manufacturing standards of the Japanese vinyl industry in the early 1980s. The quiet surfaces and balanced mastering allow the percussion and vocal layers to shine, offering a far more nuanced listening experience than the standard international versions.

Label: Casablanca (25S-121)
Format: LP, Album, White Label Promo
Country: Japan
Release Year: 1982
Notable Writers: Gene Simmons, Russ Ballard, Vinnie Vincent, John Lennon

This 1982 promotional pressing is the definitive way to experience Peter Criss’s most ambitious solo project, combining a rare visual presentation with the highest possible audio fidelity available for this era.