Award-winning communications professional and writer Michael Cavacini recently spoke with KISS drummer Eric Singer. An excerpt from the in-depth interview is available below.

Q: Earlier this year in interviews with the media, Paul and Gene had conflicting comments about whether or not KISS will record a new album. What’s your take on this? Will KISS go back into the studio to record a new album?

Singer: "Ya know, I always say, 'Never say never.' Currently, there are no plans to make a record. But that doesn’t mean there won’t be at some point. One thing I do know is that we’ll be touring more next year."

Q: I find it annoying that a small group of fans can’t accept you and Tommy as members of the band. For some of them it’s because you guys are wearing the classic makeup that Ace and Peter used to wear. How do you deal with these narrow-minded individuals?

Singer: "If a band can’t continue on because somebody quits, can’t play anymore, whatever the reason is, that shouldn’t prevent the remaining members from continuing on if that’s what they want to do. Styx is a good example. I’m really good friends with Ricky Phillips, their bass player. I saw Styx in their heyday back in the 70s, but I think they’re every bit as good now, if not better. The same thing applies to Foreigner. They’re another great band that no longer features all of the classic or original members, but they sound fantastic. 

To me, that’s what it’s all about. As long as the members of the band are doing the music justice and paying respect to its origins, then I’m fine with it. That’s what it’s all about. If a band gets new members and they aren’t very good, then you have the right to complain. 

The way people look at the makeup situation is interesting to me. I don’t play any different in makeup than I do out of makeup, yet people perceive that their is a difference. I do have a more toned-down approach than I did when I first joined the band, but that’s because I believe that’s what the music dictates and needs. 

I’ve heard people say that I was told to sing, play and act like Peter Criss. That’s completely ridiculous. I’ve never once been told to do that. Never. So, when people say that, it’s totally ridiculous. Look at any of the shows I’ve done since being in the band after Peter. I don’t play anything like Peter Criss." 

Go to this location for the complete interview.

Earlier this year, KISS uploaded footage of Singer pounding the skins during “Black Diamond” in Belo Horizonte, Brazil.