kiss band · rock stars · gene simmons · paul stanley · ace frehley · eric carr · flirtatious · tough exterior · gentle soul · stage makeup · 1980s · tour bus
The fluorescent lights of the tour bus buzz with a stale, electric hum, painting the chaotic scene of May 24, 1981 in a sickly glow. Amplifiers and tangled cables litter the floor beside a half-packed suitcase spilling sequins. Paul Stanley is on his knees, digging frantically between the couch cushions, muttering curses about a missing hairbrush. Across the narrow aisle, Gene Simmons looms over his luggage, his shoulders a tight line of contained storm. Ace Frehley is a statue of perfect repose, leather boots planted on the scarred coffee table, a faint, knowing smirk on his lips. Eric Carr stands over him, arms folded tightly. 'Ace! Why are you sitting? Everyone is gathering and hurrying now, what about you?' Ace just lifts a shoulder in a slow shrug. 'Eric, don't be angry, I just want…