Kiss trace their roots to Wicked Lester, a New York City-based rock band led by Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley. Simmons and Stanley met Criss in a nightclub where he was playing drums. In early January 1973, the group added lead guitarist Ace Frehley. Frehley impressed the group with his first audition, although he showed up wearing two different colored sneakers, one red and one orange. Great music and fun! Ghost Soldier Radio! AAAAAOOOOooooo.