"Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll" by KISS: Guitar Lesson

Background

KISS, a household name in rock 'n' roll, has had its share of anthems, but "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll" stands as a seminal piece from their album 'Alive!'. This particular song is a robust example of hard rock meets early metal. As guitarists, we get a firsthand experience of Ace Frehley's lead guitar prowess and can appreciate the straightforward but punchy rhythm laid down by Paul Stanley. Danny Gill demonstrates every note from this classic live album track.

Guitar Chords and Scales

The song predominantly revolves around the pentatonic minor scale, the staple of rock music. The song is based on a 12-bar blues progression in E, cycling through E, A, and B power chords. Ace Frehley and Paul Stanley wield their Gibson Les Pauls to create a thick and gritty texture. The chords themselves are not intricate, but the emphasis is on the strumming patterns and rhythmic accents. In many ways, the power chords offer a rhythmic backbone to the song while letting the lead guitar shine through.

The Ace Frehley Factor

Ace Frehley is no stranger to creating iconic guitar lines. His style is rooted in blues but stretched into rock and metal territories. His licks and solos in "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll" are not just a display of technical prowess but a lesson in serving the song. His signature phrases are replete with string bends, vibrato, and alternate picking, serving as bite-sized lessons for any aspiring rock guitarist.

Solo Analysis

The guitar solo kicks in after the second chorus and it's a powerhouse of classic rock elements. Frehley starts with a high E bent up a whole step, unleashing it with heavy vibrato. Then he shifts into alternate picking, swiftly navigating the E pentatonic minor scale. The descending run shows an excellent execution of legato, emphasising the fluidity that can be attained even within the confines of rock. As he moves towards the end of the solo, Frehley integrates double-stop bends and unison bends, providing a rich and harmonic closure. The essence of the solo is rooted in the blues, but Frehley ensures it’s hard-rock through and through.

Guitar Techniques in "Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll"

• Vibrato
• Alternate Picking
• Legato
• Double-Stop Bends
• Unison Bends
• Power Chords
• Palm Muting

Conclusion

"Let Me Go, Rock 'n' Roll" is more than just a song; it's a musical lesson on how to create impact with simple elements. Ace Frehley’s iconic style is sprinkled throughout the track, offering aspiring guitarists an excellent entry point into hard rock and early metal techniques. From its roots in blues to its transcendence into rock, this song is a must-learn for those looking to grasp the foundational pillars of rock guitar playing.