I believe this album was actually recorded at the Cobo Hall in Detroit. Alive II was recorded in LA.

Be that as it may, I can't say enough good things about this album. Alive made KISS just like Frampton Comes Alive gave Peter Frampton his turn in the spotlight.

Nowadays, KISS is often dismissed as a bunch of '70s schlock rockers who should have packed it in before they even got started, but throw this album on the CD player and you will hear four hungry guys (who also happened to put on the most exciting stage show available for quite some time) rocking hard and earning their "hottest band in the land" introduction.

Every tune is memorable and every tune has a hook. The guitar playing is blistering Les Paul-cord-amp blues at its best. Ace is da man, no whammy bar needed here. The SOUND of the guitars is amazing to me considering the time frame. Thick Gibson sound throughout, but not too much distortion. Vocals are out front too, where too many rock bands fail in a live setting. An absolute MUST have for the budding rock guitarist. Everybody can learn something from Ace. I read once that Ty Tabor of Kings X is HEAVILY influenced by Mr. Frehley, just to give you an idea. Mr. Simmons does it for me too on bass, my original inspiration to musicianship started with this album.