POISON has confirmed the release details and legacy of its 1993 album 'Native Tongue', the only studio LP to feature Richie Kotzen on lead guitar following the departure of C.C.

DeVille.

The album marked a shift from the band's glam metal roots toward a more blues-rock oriented sound, with production handled by Richie Zito.

It debuted at No.

16 on the Billboard 200 and sold a million records in its first months, though it did not achieve the commercial success of earlier albums with DeVille.

The record included the singles 'Stand' and 'Until You Suffer Some (Fire And Ice)', with the 'Stand' video being praised for its cinematic quality.

Kotzen confirmed in a 2025 interview that he co-wrote the album with singer Bret Michaels, contributing original material and shaping the songwriting process.

The band's decision to move away from the grunge era's musical trends was intentional, with Rockett stating the group aimed to establish a new chapter without replicating their previous style.

Despite not resonating with core POISON fans at the time, the album received positive critical reception and remains a point of pride for both Rockett and Kotzen.

Kotzen has since resumed his solo career and collaborated with MR.

BIG and THE WINERY DOGS.

In 2025, he released 'Black Light/White Noise' with Adrian Smith as part of the SMITH/KOTZEN project, distributed via BMG.

The group's reunion performance at the Grammy Museum in Los Angeles in March 2025 highlighted the enduring bond between the former bandmates.

Kotzen has since clarified that past rumors of personal tensions were exaggerated, emphasizing that all relationships with former bandmates have been resolved and that mutual respect continues.

The band has not announced any new album, tour, or lineup changes as of this report.

The legacy of 'Native Tongue' remains a significant milestone in POISON's history, reflecting a pivotal transition in the band's artistic direction."