Is Monster a good place to start with Kiss?

Yes, Monster is recommended as a starting point for new Kiss listeners. A thunderous return to form, blending classic hard rock riffs with an exuberant energy and theatrical flair. Released in 2012, Monster marked Kiss's 20th studio album and their first since the reunion of the classic lineup. At this point in their career, the band was celebrating over four decades of rock history and seeking to reclaim their status in a changing music landscape. The album followed the successful Sonic Boom from 2009, which had re-energized their fanbase.

Monster works well if you're into steady energetic flow throughout, for sing-along moments and great for driving or workouts.

How many songs are on Monster?

Monster has 12 tracks, running approximately 43 minutes.

Released 14 years ago this October

Monster

Kiss · 2012

43 min · 12 tracks · hard rock

A thunderous return to form, blending classic hard rock riffs with an exuberant energy and theatrical flair.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Hell or Hallelujah Start here — This opening track encapsulates the album's hard-hitting sound with a catchy chorus that exemplifies Kiss's signature style of blending heavy guitar riffs with anthemic melodies.
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Back to the Stone Age — The track combines raw energy with a nostalgic nod to classic rock themes, reflecting the band's roots while showcasing a modern twist in production.
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The Devil Is Me — With its darker lyrical themes and aggressive instrumentation, this song stands out as a representation of the band's ability to evolve while still maintaining their core identity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

46 /100

Foothills

Higher than 10% of albums we've rated

Monster showcases Kiss's classic hard rock sound with energetic performances but lacks standout compositions.

What we noticed

The first half of the album maintains a high energy with driving guitar riffs and anthemic choruses, while the second half introduces more varied tempos and dynamics.
Several tracks feature call-and-response vocal patterns between lead and backing vocals, enhancing the theatricality of the performance.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady energetic flow throughout
for sing-along moments
great for driving or workouts
anthems that encourage headbanging
invigorating tracks for group listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer slower, more contemplative music
seek complex, layered arrangements

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Continues the band's legacy with a strong sound, showcasing their enduring popularity.
Themes: inner turmoil· theatrical rebellion
Moods: Energetic· Anthemic
Career context: Released in 2012, Monster marked Kiss's 20th studio album and their first since the reunion of the classic lineup. At this point in their career, the band was celebrating over four decades of rock history and seeking to reclaim their status in a changing music landscape. The album followed the successful Sonic Boom from 2009, which had re-energized their fanbase.
Stylistic neighbors: Aerosmith· Motörhead· Def Leppard