Hey there, and a very Happy KISSmas in July! Just in case you’ve wandered in here by mistake, KISS is a huge band, commanding a huge and devoted following. Most fans have favourite eras and line-ups and enjoy them regardless but for some arguing about who & what is best seems to take up most of their time. Personally, I just like the music, and the performance, in and of itself, no matter what era or line-up.
It’s all Rawk N Roll to me.
So, channelling the great Matt Porter from The Kiss Room, I’m keeping it positive and showing my unashamed appreciation of the members who made KISS what it was, and is, and will always be.
For many, the original and the best KISS lead guitarist; the space bound guitar God who produced un-tethered guitar parts and solos other guitar players can still only dream of. The Space Ace is responsible for so many huge moments in KISStory, and is an integral part of the original band’s sound and look; from those razor sharp guitar phrases and guitar slinger’s lurch & swagger, right down to designing the band’s logo, which is recognised throughout the world.
My favourite Ace Frehley moment comes from the very first track of the very first KISS album and is the main reason why I got hooked on KISS in the first place. “Strutter” contains all the elements about early KISS that I find so awesome and, for me, it’s one of those perfect songs. As if that weren’t enough, Ace‘s soloing is something special…man, he’s just ON. The jabs, bends, and hammer-ons, which would become synonymous with Frehley in the future, are all already present and have such a bite and a lyrical quality to them that it’s easy to see why he made such an impact on so many people.
Light it up, Curly!
Enjoy!
