My guess is you were given a standard tire, and the old one was puncture resistant. Most Vittoria tires are puncture resistant, while the Kenda tires I've used have not. I'll always pay a few extra $$$ for puncture resistance. Check the side walls to see what you HAD (if you still have the old tire), and what you now HAVE.
I've got Vittoria Randonneur tires on my current daily ride and have had no problems with them. Only difference from you (probably) is I like to use larger size tires (700 x 32). They're definately a little 'sloppier' that narrower, higher pressure road tires, but I like the softer ride that comes with that slop. (whatever gets you out there, right?
).