Description
Ace Frehley – Frehley’s Comet – Vinyl Record
Sky Blue Marble Vinyl
Released as part of Rhino’s Rocktober 2017
Brand new, never played and still sealed in the factory plastic
Ace Frehley’s Frehley’s Comet (1987) is the debut solo album by Ace Frehley, the legendary guitarist of KISS. After leaving KISS in 1982, Frehley took a few years to launch his solo project, Frehley’s Comet, which showcased a blend of hard rock, glam metal, and pop rock. The album was highly anticipated due to Frehley’s iconic status in KISS, and it allowed him to step out of the shadow of his former band and prove himself as a solo artist.
Frehley’s Comet balances Frehley’s signature guitar-driven sound with melodic hooks, solidifying his place in the 1980s hard rock scene. The album was successful, peaking at #43 on the Billboard 200, and it produced several fan-favorite tracks that are still celebrated in Frehley’s live performances today.
Frehley’s Comet is rooted in hard rock, but it also incorporates the polished, radio-friendly production and melodic sensibilities of glam metal, which was dominating the 1980s rock scene. Frehley’s guitar work is front and center, with explosive riffs, powerful solos, and anthemic choruses.
Frehley’s signature guitar tone is a key element throughout the album. Tracks like “Rock Soldiers” and “Breakout” feature heavy, riff-laden verses and flashy guitar solos that showcase Frehley’s prowess as a lead guitarist. His ability to blend technical skill with catchy hooks makes the album accessible while still appealing to guitar enthusiasts.
The album’s production, handled by Eddie Kramer (known for his work with KISS, Led Zeppelin, and Jimi Hendrix), is clean and polished, fitting well with the commercial hard rock sound of the late 1980s. The songs are structured with tight, melodic choruses and strong verses that aim for radio play without sacrificing the rock edge.
Key Tracks
“Rock Soldiers”: This is one of the most iconic tracks on the album, and it serves as an autobiographical anthem about Frehley’s struggles with addiction and his near-death experience in a car accident. The song’s powerful, mid-tempo riff and sing-along chorus make it a standout. The lyrics reflect Frehley’s battles and his determination to overcome his demons, making it a fan favorite.
“Breakout”: Co-written by drummer Anton Fig, this track is a high-energy rocker with a heavy groove and explosive guitar work. The song’s aggressive tempo and commanding vocal performance highlight the album’s harder edge, and the instrumental break allows Frehley to showcase his guitar virtuosity.
“Into the Night”: A cover of a song written by Russ Ballard (who also wrote “New York Groove,” Frehley’s hit from his 1978 solo album), this track features a melodic, pop-rock structure with a smooth, accessible sound. It has a more laid-back feel compared to the heavier songs on the album, giving the album a dynamic range.
“Calling to You”: A more dramatic, anthemic track with a powerful chorus and emotional vocal delivery. The song has a big, arena rock feel with soaring guitar solos and tight instrumentation, encapsulating the glam metal vibe of the time.
“Dolls”: This quirky track stands out for its playful lyrics and unusual rhythm. It’s more experimental than the rest of the album, with a lighter, almost humorous tone that showcases Frehley’s willingness to take risks and have fun with his music.
Many of the album’s lyrics reflect Frehley’s personal struggles with addiction, fame, and the challenges of life on the road. “Rock Soldiers” is a prime example, as it recounts his near-fatal car accident and his resolve to overcome adversity. The theme of survival is a recurring motif throughout the album. While the album addresses some serious themes, it also embraces the rock ‘n’ roll spirit of escapism and living in the moment. Tracks like “Into the Night” and “Calling to You” focus on themes of love, adventure, and letting loose, which are typical of 1980s glam metal. Frehley’s departure from KISS and his desire to assert his individuality are subtly reflected in the album’s tone. Songs like “Breakout” and “We Got Your Rock” carry a sense of rebellion and independence, symbolizing Frehley’s desire to prove himself as a solo artist.
This album reestablished Ace Frehley as a prominent solo artist in the hard rock scene of the late 1980s. It showcased his growth as a musician and songwriter, separate from his work with KISS. The success of Frehley’s Comet led to subsequent albums, including Second Sighting in 1988 and Trouble Walkin’ in 1989, further solidifying Frehley’s solo career.
For fans of classic rock and KISS, Frehley’s Comet offers insight into Ace Frehley’s evolution as an artist and his contributions to the genre.
Track Listing
Rock Soldiers
Breakout
Into The Night
Something Moved
We Got Your Rock
Love Me Right
Calling To You
Dolls
Stranger In A Strange Land
Fractured Too (Instrumental)
