Ace Frehley didn’t rock and roll all night on Friday, with the former Kiss guitarist’s show at Jergel’s Rhythm Grille in Warrendale ending shortly before 11 p.m.
But “The Spaceman” showed why countless guitar players derived inspiration from his Kiss heyday, as he and his band took a dive into Kiss classics as well as a few from his solo career.
Frehley played in Kiss from 1973-1982 and rejoined from 1996-2002, with the band inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
The 74-year-old hit the stage decked out in sunglasses, which stayed on all night, and a black T-shirt and coat — he’d have several wardrobe changes including Hello Kitty shirt and leopard print shirts, while the rest of the band wore matching bedazzled shirts with all four last names on the front.
Frehley opened with the first Kiss song he sang himself, “Shock Me,” as he flicked guitar picks and strummed his Les Paul guitar. The 1974 classic “Deuce” gave Frehley the chance to solo twice before he, bassist Ryan Cook and rhythm guitarist Jeremy Asbrock convened closely at center stage for the conclusion.
For all the shows Frehley’s done in his career, forgive him if he wasn’t 100% sure of where he thought the show was supposed to be.
“I thought we were in Philly. I don’t know,” Frehley said. “Wherever we are, we’re happy to be here. You guys ready to rock?”