"Deuce" by KISS - Guitar Lesson

"Deuce" is one of the classic tracks from KISS's 'Alive!' album. For guitar enthusiasts, especially those interested in the unique and aggressive style of rock and roll that KISS brought to the masses, this song offers a deep well of techniques, nuances, and stylistic choices. "Deuce" is an excellent song to dissect, not just for its historical significance in rock history, but for the guitar craftsmanship it displays. Danny Gill breaks down this iconic live track in this exclusive Lick Library video lesson.

Chords and Progressions

KISS has always been known for their straightforward, punchy chord progressions, and "Deuce" is no exception. The main riff of the song relies heavily on power chords. These chords are played with a sense of urgency and drive that propels the song forward. The transitions between these chords are smooth and often feature the use of slides.

Throughout the song, there are also instances of barre chords and open-string riffs which help to vary the sonic texture. These chord choices and their delivery give the song its characteristic rock and roll edge.

Scales and Solo

The solos in "Deuce" are rooted in the A minor pentatonic scale. This scale, a favourite among rock guitarists, comprises of the notes A, C, D, E, and G. It's the backbone of many iconic rock solos, and KISS uses it to great effect in this track.

Ace Frehley, the lead guitarist, takes centre stage during the solos. His approach blends both fast, blistering runs and slower, more melodic phrases. These are sprinkled with techniques like string bending, particularly bluesy bends, and vibrato. Ace's vibrato is wide and expressive, lending a vocal-like quality to his lead lines.

Lead Guitarist: Ace Frehley

Ace Frehley's influence in the rock guitar world is undeniable. His playing on "Deuce" exemplifies his style - a mix of technical prowess and raw emotion. His choice of notes, though rooted in the pentatonic scale, never feels predictable. Instead, Ace plays with a sense of spontaneity and fire.

His use of double stops, especially double-stop bends, brings a richer texture to the solos, making them sound fuller and more complex than they might seem at first listen. He's not shy about using unison bends either, where he'll bend one string up to match the pitch of a neighbouring string, creating a powerful sonic effect.

Techniques Employed

For the avid guitarist or the curious student, "Deuce" is a veritable treasure trove of guitar techniques. Let's explore the list:

• Vibrato
• Power Chords
• Slides
• Barre Chords
• Open-String Riffs
• String-Bending
• Bluesy Bends
• Double Stops
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends

Conclusion

"Deuce" from KISS's 'Alive!' album is more than just a rock and roll anthem; it's a lesson in guitar playing. From its power chords and barre chords to the intricate techniques used in the solos, this song offers guitarists a chance to delve deep into the world of rock guitar. For those eager to hone their skills or simply appreciate the artistry of rock guitar, "Deuce" is a track that should not be overlooked.