It's much better live. It's not about being awesome musicians, it's about creating an energy that sorta pumps you up. I think as KISS fans we need to stop comparing KISS to everyone else musically because there is only one KISS sound. KISS albums are great, but KISS comes alive onstage in an arena with a thousand other freaks pumping their fists. When you go to a KISS show, expect to be stupid for a while, pump your fists, enjoy the show.
Music is a release and a KISS concert is neccessary every once in a while.