X-KISS drummer on Catman make-up: "I get upset with it and it comes down to money."

The original KISS Catman, Peter Criss

Original KISS drummer Peter Criss recently spoke to Australia's Undercover News about his current relationship with his former bandmates and the fact that the group is carrying on with someone else (Eric Singer) playing the role of "Catman."

When asked about some KISS fans' objections to Peter's makeup being used by another drummer, Criss said, "Same here. I feel the same way like you as a fan. And I get upset with it and it comes down to money, man, and power and politics. And I have nothing to do with that. And when I did have something to do with that, it got backfired and it knocked me on my butt. And so now all I have to say is, it's gotta be a fair baseball — it has to be. 'Cause it's only common respect."

He added, "We put a foundation of something for respect — for you and me. And, of course, it seems no big deal to some people, but it is a big deal. And to me it's kind of like taking the Lone Ranger's mask and putting it on another guy — it just wouldn't be the Lone Ranger, man. And I say that to some kids — 'Look, you can put my makeup on, but you're not Catman. You don't have my hands, you don't have my heart, you don't have my brain and you weren't there from Day One."

Peter Criss released a new solo album on July 24, titled "One for All". Criss produced the album himself for the first time, and guest musicians include keyboardist Paul Shaffer and bassist Will Lee of "Late Night with David Letterman". The album includes a range of styles, from rock and jazz to blues and Broadway, and includes covers of "What a Difference a Day Makes" and "Send in the Clowns".

Clip borrowed from Blabbermouth

Metal Sludge
One for Sludge