Former KISS Guitarist Vinnie Vincent Announces $200 Limited Edition CD Single

Former KISS guitarist Vinnie Vincent has announced a new single titled ‘Ride The Serpent’, though fans will need deep pockets and fast reflexes if they want a copy.

The track will be released as a limited run of 1,000 CDs, split evenly between the US and international buyers, each disc is individually numbered and signed by Vincent, with a price tag of $200 USD (approx $300 AUD), plus $25 shipping within the US or $100 internationally.

According to Vincent’s website, the release marks the beginning of the Vinnie Vincent Invasion Master Series, intended to launch the long promised album ‘Judgment Day (Guitarmageddon Pt. I)’.

Vincent explained the decision behind the track selection in a statement posted online.

‘Given there are so many number one lead off tracks from “Judgment Day Guitarmageddon”, it was near impossible to pick one. However I ultimately chose “Ride The Serpent”. A nearly 8 minute, intense guitar powerdrive featuring Vinnie Vincent on guitars and bass, Robert Fleischman vocals and Keary Jordan on drums.’

Earlier this month, Vincent publicly defended the steep pricing, citing piracy concerns.

‘I understand the b*tching, the moaning, the whining about price, but you must also understand that my situation is as such that my music is so desired that it will be targeted and taken from me immediately, which I cannot/will not allow,’ he wrote.

‘I wish it was not this way, but I’m honored that it is. It’s a double-edged sword for me, but I sincerely hope that when you think it through you will understand the dilemma I face.’

February 28 deadline

Ride The Serpent pre orders must hit 1,000 units by February 28th or purchases will be refunded via PayPal, if the threshold is met, Vincent says he will incrementally release additional tracks tied to the Master Series.

The release continues Vincent’s long, complicated return to public view after decades largely off the radar, a key contributor to KISS’s ‘Lick It Up’, Vincent later co-wrote material on ‘Revenge’ before once again parting ways with the band.

Despite sporadic appearances since 2018, new music from Vincent remains rare and contentious.