Ace Frehley is back on top of the rock 'n roll world with his 8th studio album, "Spaceman." The ultimate Space Ace and former KISS guitarist has been on a streak, releasing a new album every couple of years and he doesn't appear to have any plans on stopping. Recorded at his very own Ace in the Hole Studios, "Spaceman " is nine tracks of hard-hitting songs which serve as a sort of autobiographical purge for the veteran songwriter and legendary guitarist.
A few tracks that stand out to me on "Spaceman" are "Bronx Boy," "Without You I'm Nothing," "Rockin' with the Boys," and "You're Wish is My Command." They're all perfect examples of different musical phases in the life of Ace Frehley, but still meld well together in album form. "Bronx Boy" sounds like it could've been a song he left off of his 1978 solo album with its brash attitude and energy that rivals songs like "Rip It Up" and "New York" Groove."
"Rockin' with the Boys" is just a solid and catchy tune you'll find yourself singing while walking through your daily routine. "Without You I'm Nothing" and "Your Wish is My Command" were both co-wrote by ex-KISS collaborator Gene Simmons. Simmons plays bass on both tracks, but you can really feel his influence on "Your Wish is My Command." The track reminds me of Gene's songwriting style and sound on KISS's two latest albums, "Sonic Boom" and "Monster." Couple that with Ace's electric fretwork and instantly recognizable voice and you have proof that lightning can strike the same place not twice, but multiple times.
Another interesting reunion of sorts is the appearance of drummer Anton Fig on a couple of tracks for "Spaceman." Fig has been working with Ace Frehley and KISS off and on since 1978. He was recruited by Frehley for studio work on his 1978 solo album and continued to work for KISS on their 1979 platinum-selling juggernaut "Dynasty" and 1980's "Unmasked." "Spaceman" is Fig's sixth collaboration with Frehley for his solo outings, having last appeared on 2009's "Anomaly."
"Spaceman" is definitely another quality solo effort from Ace Frehley. It proves that Space Ace still has what it takes to get out their and continue "Rockin' with the Boys." "Spaceman" is another magnificent chapter in a long and storied career for the founding member of one of the most unforgettable and entertaining bands in American music history.
