Kiss ex Peter Criss hurt by Aerosmith slur

New line: Kiss Pez launched in time for Christmas

Former Kiss drummer Peter Criss says he’s hurt by Steven Tyler’s slating of the glam rock icons.

The Aerosmith singer last week labelled Kiss a “comic book” band and said their work sometimes “offended” him. That led Paul Stanley to bite back, suggesting Tyler needed a “reality check” and he was only mouthing off in order to promote his band’s new album.

Now Criss, who was a member of Kiss when the bands toured together in 2003, reveals he’s saddened by the comments – especially since he has fond memories of being on the road with Aerosmith.

But he singles guitarist Joe Perry out for criticism, and suggests Tyler has jumped on his colleague’s bandwagon.

The drummer tells Q1043: “In my book I talk about our tour. I found those guys to be sweethearts. I felt honoured to be on stage with Aerosmith. I think they’re one of the greatest rock and roll bands in the world.

“I could see how Steven loves Steven, and he always wanted the spotlight over him. He’s always, ‘Look at me, look at me.’ That’s okay – I had one of those in my band. Tom Hamilton and Brad Whitford treated my wife like a million bucks.

“Joe was a jerk. I say it in my book: he had a thing; he just didn’t like us. He called us clowns and he didn’t really like playing with us. So now I hear Steven jumped on the bandwagon, and it kind of hurts my feelings because I really like the guys.

“It’s strange he said that, because he didn’t give me that impression when we toured together.”

Tyler and Perry recently indulged in one of their Toxic Twins bitching sessions on UK TV, stopping to assure host Jonathan Ross: “We’re not arguing.”

Meanwhile, former Kiss guitarist Ace Frehley has pulled out of UK boutique festival Hard Rock Hell on November 29 – December 2 in Hafan-y-Mor, North Wales. It’s the second year in a row he’s cancelled his appearance. No explanation has been offered. Last year he called off just three days ahead of the event, saying he’d suffered a hand injury.

The current band have revealed their next merchandise item will be limited-edition KISS Pez dispensers, with four flip-top containers presented in a metal case. Pez boss Joe Vittoria says: “There have been several imitation Kiss dispensers over the years and we’re pleased to launch this authentic set in time for the holiday season.”