Classic Albums – Alive! (Kiss)

An In-Depth Analysis of “Alive” by KISS: A Guitarist’s Perspective
As a guitarist, delving into the sonic realm of KISS’s groundbreaking live album, “Alive”, is like taking a masterclass in the art of rock and roll guitar. The album offers a profound mix of heady power chords, melodic solos, and charismatic stage presence, as embodied by the band’s lead guitarist, Ace Frehley.

Recorded across four live shows during the summer of 1975, KISS Alive! captures the raw energy and performance for which KISS became subsequently famous. With a selection of the best tracks from the first three studio albums, Kiss, Hotter Than Hell and Dressed To Kill, Alive! is a monument to the rock n roll majesty of KISS and spawned live versions of classic tracks which became legendary in their own right.

Ace Frehley is a true rock guitar icon. His riff-driven playing, adorned with blistering solos, embodies the raw essence of KISS’s sound on “Alive”. This record is a testament to his prowess and his ability to create memorable, powerful guitar moments that have stood the test of time. Licklibrary veteran tutor, Danny Gill walks you through one of the greatest live albums ever recorded, bringing you step by step guitar lessons for some of the most beloved KISS songs of all time; from the famous live version of Rock And Roll All Nite to fan favourites such as Deuce and Cold Gin. You wanted the best? You got the best!

Guitar Lesson 1: “Deuce”
This song’s key is in A and utilizes a simple blues scale throughout. The main riff, built around power chords, carries a heavy, driving rhythm that sets the stage for the rest of the album. The song’s climax, a melodic solo, is quintessential Frehley: a minor pentatonic scale solo peppered with rapid hammer-ons and pull-offs.

Guitar Lesson 2: “Strutter”
In the key of E, “Strutter” showcases Frehley’s talent for creating infectious rhythm patterns. The song’s structure is centered around a catchy open-string riff followed by a mixture of barre chords and power chords. The guitar solo utilizes the E minor pentatonic scale, with an expressive use of string bending and vibrato.

Guitar Lesson 3: “Got to Choose”
“Got to Choose” is built on an interesting chord progression in the key of A. Frehley’s precise alternate picking is clearly demonstrated here, in combination with an array of power chords. The guitar solo once again leans on the minor pentatonic scale, with a particular focus on slides and bluesy bends.

Guitar Lesson 4: “Hotter Than Hell”
This tune’s sinister sounding riffs make heavy use of power chords and chromaticism in the key of E. The guitar solo is a flurry of pentatonic licks, marked by double stops, quick pull-offs, and expressive string bending.

Guitar Lesson 5: “Firehouse”
This song, in the key of D, begins with a catchy arpeggiated chord progression. The song offers a powerful blend of power chords, palm-muted riffs, and a fiery solo that showcases Frehley’s masterful command of the D minor pentatonic scale.
Techniques Used in “Alive”

Guitar techniques that feature prominently on “Alive” include
Power Chords / Alternate Picking / Pull-offs / Barre Chords / Slides / Hammer-ons / String Bending / Bluesy Bends / Vibrato / Palm Muting / Double Stops / Chromaticism / Arpeggiated Chord Progressions

This journey through “Alive” by KISS provides guitarists with a blueprint for captivating, energy-driven rock and roll. With a thorough understanding of these techniques and song structures, guitarists can start to appreciate the depth and complexity of Ace Frehley’s performance on this iconic album. It’s not just about the notes he played, but how he played them: the passion, the energy, and the charisma that define Frehley as a guitarist.

NB: PERFORMANCE FOOTAGE NOT INCLUDED WITH THIS COURSE