"Hotter Than Hell" by Kiss: Guitar Lesson

Introduction

Danny Gill delves into "Hotter Than Hell" by KISS, from their iconic live album 'Alive!'. This track is a perfect display of the gritty, showmanship-focused rock n' roll that KISS was famous for. Ace Frehley, the lead guitarist of KISS at the time, delivered one of his standout performances on this song.

Guitar Chords and Scales

The song is primarily in the key of A minor, sticking close to root, 4th, and 5th positions, emphasising the power-chord-driven character of KISS's music. The chords are relatively simple, ranging from the essential A5, D5, and E5 power chords to slightly more extended forms like A7 and D7. The scales mainly utilised include the A minor pentatonic and A blues scale, providing a sturdy backbone for the solo and fills.

Guitar Solo Analysis

The solo is quintessentially Ace. It is a blend of raw energy, technique, and a keen sense of melody. He starts off with a series of double stops that lead into a classic minor pentatonic riff. Ace does not confine himself to a single position on the fretboard; he moves up and down with ease, integrating the 5th and 7th positions effectively. Around the midpoint of the solo, you’ll hear some string-bending techniques, emphasising the blues influence in his playing style.

As he approaches the climax, Ace incorporates some swift alternate picking to add tension, climaxing with a high, wailing bend, followed by a descending legato lick that serves as a nice contrast. The transition back to the main riff is executed seamlessly, making it a solo that sounds complex but is structurally well-designed.

Ace Frehley's Playing Style

Ace Frehley is known for his straightforward approach to rock guitar. He's not flashy in a speed sense, but in a "grab your attention and keep it" sense. Ace's forte is in his phrasing and melodic sensibilities; he has a knack for choosing the right note at the right time. In "Hotter Than Hell," he utilises a range of techniques, from string bending and alternate picking to legato and tapped harmonics, blending them into a composite that can only be described as "Ace-like."

Even his guitar tone speaks volumes about his playing style. Ace often employs a Les Paul through a Marshall amp, capturing that classic rock crunch and sustain, which is evident in this track as well.

Techniques Used

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Tapped Harmonics
• Double Stop Bends
• String Bending
• Power Chords
• Harmonics
• Chord Progressions

So, what do we take away from all this? "Hotter Than Hell" by KISS is not just a song but a musical lesson that encompasses a broad range of guitar techniques. From the chord choices and scales to the solo's construction and Ace Frehley's nuanced handling of the six-string, this track serves as an excellent template for aspiring rock guitarists. Whether it's the rhythmic groove laid down by the power chords or the fireworks of the solo, there's something for every guitarist to appreciate and learn from.