"Cold Gin" by KISS from 'Alive!' - Guitar Lesson

Aspiring rock guitarists, if you're looking for a song that's a real showcase of what can be done with simple but powerful riffs and a gripping solo, then "Cold Gin" by KISS should be on your radar. Featured on their 1975 live album 'Alive!', this track is one of the seminal pieces in the hard rock and glam metal genres. Danny Gill digs into the elements that make this song a guitar classic.

The Chords and Scales

Right off the bat, you'll notice that this song thrives on power chords. The main riff involves an E5 power chord moving to a G5 and A5. These power chords serve as the bedrock for the song, adding an undeniable energy and pulse that are quintessential rock 'n' roll. The song predominantly operates within the E Minor Pentatonic scale, a favourite among rock guitarists.

Ace Frehley and His Guitar Work

The lead guitar work is provided by none other than Ace Frehley, the original Spaceman. Ace may not be a virtuoso by modern shred standards, but his playing is filled with raw emotion and is extremely effective. His approach on "Cold Gin" is a testament to the philosophy that less can often be more.

The Solo

The guitar solo in "Cold Gin" is a thing of beauty. It is a short burst but packs a lot of technique and feel. Ace Frehley employs bends and quick pentatonic licks to create a memorable solo. He starts with a bend from the 14th fret on the G string, releasing it and immediately picking the same note without the bend, which is a common blues-rock phrasing technique. Then he jumps down to the 12th fret, using a few quick alternate picking strokes before bending up again at the 15th fret on the B string. He closes the solo with a descending pentatonic run on the high E string, providing a satisfying resolution. Overall, the solo is a perfect blend of technical skill and emotional depth.

Techniques Employed

There are several guitar techniques embedded in "Cold Gin" that make it a rewarding study piece. The intro riff employs slides, and alternate picking is used throughout. The power chords provide the foundational element, but the song also incorporates quick bends and pull-offs, especially in the solo section. Although not as prominent, vibrato can be observed at the tail end of certain phrases, particularly in the solo.

Technique Checklist

• Power Chords
• Alternate Picking
• Slides
• Pull-Offs
• Vibrato
• Chord Progressions

While Ace Frehley's playing style may not involve some of the more complex techniques like sweep picking or two-handed tapping, his mastery of foundational skills is commendable. The solo may not be lengthy, but it makes its point with the right choice of notes and techniques. The rhythmic riffs, memorable solo, and underlying chord progressions make "Cold Gin" an exciting project for guitarists looking to explore rock guitar. With a mix of these classic techniques, the song delivers its punch with an undeniable swagger that only KISS could muster.

Whether you're new to guitar or a seasoned player looking to understand the building blocks of a rock classic, "Cold Gin" offers a range of elements to analyse, practice, and incorporate into your own playing. Take your time to get those power chords to really chug and the pentatonic licks to wail. As you delve into this iconic track, you'll not only be gaining technical skills but also absorbing a piece of rock history.