(by Vladimir Ilyin)

Hi Eric, it is really a big honor for me to do an interview with you, the drummer of KISS. Thanks for this opportunity and for your time.
You are welcome !
Tell me how you got into KISS the very first time? How it was?

I first played with Paul Stanley on his 1989 solo tour. He then asked me to help record Revenge and the rest is Kisstory.
Must to say many thanks for Revenge album. This is my favourite album and you did a great job! Your drumming is fantastic. Can you tell us some funny story about studio recordings of Revenge album?
Thank you Vladimir, It was a very focused and fast session in the studio for Revenge. Bob Ezrin was actually the funniest!! He is The Mad Proffesor.
If not KISS, a drumer for which band you would like to be, potentially? Are there any band you want to play with?
I have been able to play with many bands or musicians that I was influenced by growing up. I would love to play/work with anyone from Led Zeppelin!!
Why you leave KISS in one day with Bruce Kulcik, it seems like a big slap in the face to KISS?
Bruce & I did not "leave" KISS. Gene & Paul did the "reunion" with Ace & Peter. I had no choice in this matter.
How did you get Ace Frehley for guitar playing on Foxy Lady? Is it easy to work with him?
Ace is a good friend of Karl Cohran & Myself. We just asked him to be involved & he was happy to help out. He is very funny & was super easy that day of recording.
Where is Karl Kohran? He was originall bass player for ESP band. Why he is not in the band with you? Are you still friends with him?
Karl Cochran is a good friend. He lives on the east coast of America almost 3000 miles away from the rest of the guys in ESP. Love Karl & his talents.
Why in Alice Cooper band you have double bass drum but in KISS you have only the single one? The music of KISS just too simple for drumming?
I use whatever works for the band & music.
How many times you was in Russia? I remember one time you came with Brian May band, and later with Alice Coper on Brutally Live tour.
I have played 3 times in Russia. Once with Brian May in 1998. 2 times in 2000 on the same tour within 3 months.
What wonder you for the very first time, when you step on russian ground? Is everything was OK?
I loved Russia!! very kool place. I hope to return another day.
What was it like to play with the Brian May band in Russia for the very first time?
Brian May is a King to me!! The best person to work or play with in a band for sure. He also loved Russia!!
I know that you are big collector of arm watches. Did you find something interesting for you in Russia?
Yes, last time in Russia I found a couple old watches. I am always looking :-)
When you play in KISS, did somebody from russian promoters ever ask you for concerts in Russia. I am asking because for many times there are some news about "KISS coming in Russia", at last, but later we hear it was only the rumor.
Unless you hear it from KISS please do not believe it. I really hope one day to return.
KISS never come to play in Russia. Did KISS ever ask to to told them about your visits here? Are they interesting "how it was" to play in Russia?
We all hope to come to Russia someday as KISS.
When KISS offer to you come back in the band again, in full make-up and costume, don't you think it's a little crazy or it's just a joke? How did you accept this offer for the first time?
I play drums for a living. KISS needed a drummer. a perfect match :-)
How do you feel in make-up, is it OK for your skin? Did you put a make-up on personally or with anybody help?
Paul showed me the very first time. I have always done it myself since then.
Who would be a drummer for upcoming Paul Stanley solo tour? Did Paul ever offer to you this place? Do you know who woluld be other musicians for his tour-band?
I know nothing about Paul & his plans for his solo stuff. I have heard a few songs though & it is very good.
You have brilliant voice, "Black Diamond" sounds great and your ESP songs re great too. Don't you want to record a solo album? I don't meand next ESP album, but real solo album.
I have always wanted to do something differant for myself one day so who knows. Hoping for another ESP record sometimes this year.
I heard ESP would play in Japan in February, but also Bob Kulick would be there. What it's mean, ESP would perform with 2 guitarists or Bob want to play like a solo artist or what? Please explaine.
The plan is for Bob to sit in on a few songs.
Tell me a bit about your future projects, plans, performing?
Alice Cooper touring again in 2006.
What do you think of the Online KISS community on the Internet?
This is great and alot of fun!
I run currently new KISS web-site called KissRevenge.com, what you think about it?
I like it! Thank you for your support!! We love it ALL!
Is there anything else you want to say to the Russian KISS fans?
I love your country and would love to play there again soon! Peace.