All in all I've seen Ace live about a dozen times in the last 25 years. I also was lucky enough to see him twice in 2008, not to mention meeting him before one of the shows. I was inspired by and can totally appreciate his struggles with sobriety. He is truly an under-appreciated guitar legend. People have been inspired and copy his licks all the time. Back to 2008, I have to say that thing that impressed me the most was the caliber of musicians that he is playing with. The band clearly is 25-30 years younger but fit perfectly. These guys are energetic and actually sound better tha Kiss on several numbers. I am a big Kiss fan also. I think that this band is a perfect blend of talent and it brings out the best of Ace. So pay attention 2008 = very, very good.
So this gets me to the 2009 show at the HOB in Cleveland. In the time that my wife and I saw him in 2008, he has release a new disc: Anomaly. So we were pretty sure that there would be a fair share of new songs played. I didn't write down the numbers that he played, but the set was flawless. A blend of new and old. Two songs that really shined: "Sister" (new, favorite new track), "Love Her All I Can" (Never remove this from the setlist!-it is an outstanding showcase of how good this band is), "Love Gun" (really, I'm not a Kiss hater at all - this was better than the latest Kiss tour version, light years) and "Rocket Ride" (the best I've ever seen him play-total showcase of Ace's skill). Bottom line, this tour should blow everyone away --> go see them, you won't believe it. Ace is truly at the top of his game. Best Ace show I've ever seen. Go to see him, there are not that many dates before he goes over seas. Everyone's in for a treat.
House of Blues Cleveland @
- Cleveland @
,OH @
- Wed, Nov 11, 2009 @
Favorite moment: When they do "Love Her All I Can" there is so much electricity in the performance. I could watch the smoking guitar a million times. @
Opening act(s): 16 Second Stare - impressive young band, have fun guys @
