There are some people in the world that leave such a lasting impact on many and that legacy will hold on forever. When you look back at rock n’ roll history the band KISS, is without a doubt, one of the biggest inspirations to so many that have picked up an instrument or started a band. Yes, KISS had the makeup and schtick to really make it something else but the real deal was the music and the songs. I can’t help but think about the very first KISS album and how that really changed everything. The album cover with all four faces of Gene, Paul, Ace and Peter in their respective makeup. I can only imagine being a kid when that came out, going to the record store and buying it solely based on the cover art. Then you get it home and drop the needle down and track one is “Strutter?!” I mean how perfect does it get? As you listen through the first album, you hear banger song after another. From “Deuce,” “Cold Gin,” “Nothin’ To Lose,” “Let Me Know,” “100,000 Years,” and one of my all time favorite KISS songs, “Black Diamond.” When you speak of the best debut albums, this first KISS album has to be on the list and high up. The songs are there but, Ace Frehley really put his stamp on this album as well as all he played on. His guitar work is otherworldly. After all he is the “Spaceman.” The style he played with had such a swagger and looseness that really complemented Paul’s playing and the balance of rhythm between Gene and Peter. That Les Paul Ace had too, with the smoke coming out of it is so iconic. And how can you forget about his solos! While not “flashy” Ace played with a grace and freeness that only so many can. I had the great chance in 1998 on October 31st, to see KISS live at Dodger Stadium on their Reunion tour and for the Psycho Circus album. It was one of those shows I will always remember. A spectacle for damn sure but, KISS had a way a lot of the bands they inspired, to make you feel like you are right in front of the stage. I distinctly remember watching Ace that night and being in awe of the way he played and made it look so easy. Thank you Ace for all the years of great music, candidness and inspiring so many to pick up that instrument and start playing. Your impact and legacy is intact forever!

R.I.P. Paul Daniel “Ace” Frehley (April 27, 1951- October 16, 2025)!

Kiss:

Hotter Than Hell:

Dressed To Kill:

Rock And Roll Over:

Destroyer:

Love Gun:

Psycho Circus:

ALIVE:

ALIVE II:

ACE 1978 SOLO ALBUM: