Mention the name Ace Frehley to most people and the iconic image of the Spaceman from his days in KISS comes immediately to mind. Indeed, he was a vision in silver and black in platform boots and gave off that truly otherworldy apperance, but Frehley is so much more than his Space Ace persona.
He is a gifted songwriter and his guitar work has influenced the style of countless guitarists including Tommy Thayer, Slash and Dimebag Darrell to name a few. Following on the success of his 2014 album “Space Invader,” Ace is back with a new record “Origins Vol. I.” This time out, Frehley pays homage to rock classics and those guitar legends who inspired him along his musical journey.
From the opening notes of the Cream classic “White Room,” the unmistakable sound of Frehley’s guitar is on point as he puts his own unique touch on the tune as I knew he would. What I wasn’t prepared for was the vocal quality. Ace sounds great; clear and smooth and better than ever. The record is packed with vintage rock and roll tunes as Ace shreds through “Spanish Castle Magic” by Hendrix and Steppenwolf’s “Magic Carpet Ride.” There are some amazing guests that are featured as well, including a lead vocal performance by none other than Paul Stanley on Free’s “Fire and Water.” What a treat to hear Ace and Paul collaborate on this one! Amazing jams take place with Slash helping Ace out on Thin Lizzy’s “Emerald” and John 5 tearing it up on Frehley’s own KISS classic “Parasite.” My personal favorite was Ace’s version of the Willie Dixon blues classic “Bring It On Home” as done by Led Zeppelin. Hearing his guitar tone on those blues riffs and then listening to him go all out in an adrenaline fueled blues rock jam was pure magic.
“Origins Vol. 1” may be a covers album but it’s also a quintessential Ace Frehley record as he put his own legendary spin on these legendary songs.
