Venerable comic book publisher Marvel has partnered with iconic rock group KISS for KISS x Marvel -- a new co-branded pop culture merchandise collection uniting the two entities.
Announced on Twitter by KISS founding member and bassist Gene Simmons, KISS x Marvel unites various different retailers to create and distribute the rock and roll/comic book-themed merchandise, first and foremost being Fifth Sun -- which will presumably be in charge of apparel. Additionally, the collection will feature "accessories and drinkware from Bioworld, home goods from Jay Franco and posters from Trends International."
What's more, Simmons shared two images that will seemingly be featured as designs for the new merchandise collection. The first image sees the four members of KISS depicted in the style of a retro comic book; they are joined by Marvel superheroes Wolverine, Silver Surfer, Hulk and Black Panther. The second image shared by Simmons sees these same four heroes recreating the album artwork from KISS' beloved 1976 studio album Destroyer.
Notably, KISS has a long history with the comic book industry, Marvel included. Comics have been a major part of the group's merchandising since the '70s, with KISS making their first on-page appearance in Marvel's Howard the Duck #12 in 1977. Licensed comic book stories starring KISS have since been published the likes of Marvel, Image Comics, Archie Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Platinum Studios and IDW Publishing over the years, not to mention some unlicensed stories from other publishers. The band's newest comic books have been published by Dynamite Entertainment, with their latest series -- KISS: Zombies -- launching late last year.
Be sure to keep an eye out for more details regarding KISS x Marvel.