ACE FREHLEY
10,000 Volts
MNRK Heavy
He's shocked you, put you into a New York groove, been a rock soldier, done covers, toured a lot, and now he's hitting you with 10,000 volts....10,000 Volts of a new album. Ace is back (and he told you so) and has collaborated with TRIXTER songwriter Steve Brown and that alone was intriguing.
I've been a die-hard Ace Frehley fan since I was 5; the Spaceman has had my attention for 45 years with KISS and then as a solo artist. I love all things Ace Frehley. I've enjoyed his solo releases and I like this one; mostly. There are some brilliantly done pieces on this record and there are a few that, surprisingly, that I'm not in love with.
The title track is fantastic. It's fun, catchy and co-authored by Brown. Steve Brown is an excellent songwriter. Yes, I know this review is not about him, but you can tell which songs he worked on because he has his signature formula. Mixed with Ace's ever present three chord chops, the song is one you will want to listen to over and over again. I have it on repeat. It's a great driving song and fits the orbital one's repertoire.
Ace sticks to what he knows, and the native New Yorker may have aged, but he hasn't slowed down when it comes to writing and performing. A recent appearance here in Houston was the most fun I've had in a long time and I will never miss one of his shows (unless I'm dead or in jail). I will say the album has some bright spots. "Cherry Medicine" is packed with signature Ace riffs and the video has hot chicks; what more can you ask for?
I am not in love with "Constantly Cute"; clearly about Frehley's fiance' Lara, who is super cute, the song is an ode to love but not an outright rocker. "Blinded" is also not a favorite, but fortunately, these are the only two that I don't find constantly cute. But again, Lara is clearly endearing, and I love Ace so I'll get over it.
"Walkin' On The Moon" is brilliant. It is really the highlight of the record. I think Ace will be able to pull all of this off live and I hope he comes back to Houston to support this record. Regardless of his relationship with his ex-bandmates in KISS, regardless of the fact that I am not enamored with a few of the songs, it's Ace Frehley and you're pretty much required to love him. A Lot. Like 10,000 Volts worth of love...Ace is trouble walkin', what a shock.
4.5 Out Of 5.0 ...cuz Ace is back and he told you so...
