Quick Bits (Mini Reviews Of New Releases)

Ace Frehley – Anomoly
Ace Frehley took 20 years to finish "Anomaly," his fourth solo studio album and first since 1989's "Trouble Walkin' " It was worth the wait. With rockers like “Foxy And Free," and "Outer Space" opening the record you know your in for a wild ride. There is a cover of Sweet's 1970s hit "Fox On The Run" that just doesn’t hit it’s mark, but other then that the record is a strong one from start to finish. "Space Bear," is just a beast of a track and is one of three instrumentals on the disc along with another part of the “Fractured” series on instrumentals. "Anomaly" clearly shows why Ace Frehley is considered one of the most influential guitarists in rock and roll history. Standout tracks: Foxy And Free, Space Bear, Outer Space.

KISS – Sonic Boom
Sonic Boom is the album KISS fans have been waiting for all these years. Its no-frills production, fist-in-the-air rock anthems, it is an album as raw and vital as the best of KISS' back catalog. The thing that sets this record from KISS' later studio efforts is that it has a band identity. No pop songs from slick outside writers, and no outside musicians other then the members of KISS. This was written and performed by the members of KISS. It has all of the hallmarks of a classic KISS record; heavy guitar riffs, powerful rock drumming, strong bass lines, and lyrical, well-crafted guitar solos. "Yes I Know" and "Hot And Cold" and especially “I’m An Animal” contain some of Gene Simmons' best work in decades. As for Tommy Thayer, his stylings, tone and phrasing will have some fans wondering what year it is. Paul Stanley and Eric Singer round out the album's classic performances with contributions that are perfectly suited to each track. KISS is shamelessly pandering to a particular demographic base by tailor-making a record to fit its needs. More bands should bother to make great records that their fans will actually like and I can't imagine any KISS fan not liking Sonic Boom. Standout tracks: I’m An Animal; Yes I Know; Stand