Gene Simmons Calls Out Ace Frehley For “Sloppy” Playing

In a recent chat with Terrie Carr of WDHA-FM 105.5 FM, KISS bassist Gene Simmons shared his surprisingly heartfelt view of the band’s 1974 debut album.

Simmons said:

“I think probably it’s the most honest record we’ve ever done.
“It doesn’t have to be the best, but painters and artists talk about the honesty of innocence before you learn to do things.”

Simmons then humorously explained what that honesty looked like. He continued:

“Like kids — the most honest art is when a small child dips into mud or poop in the bathtub and starts creating imagery and stuff.
“That’s the most honest expression of art before you know form and function and any of that stuff.”

The “Sloppy” Magic of Early KISS

Simmons unintentionally explained what fans have long noticed about the band’s early music: the raw, sometimes wild style of guitarist Ace Frehley. That looseness perfectly fit the band’s rebellious early sound. Simmons admitted:

“We didn’t know anything about the recording process.
“We barely knew how to tune the instruments, and we sort of could write songs and based on our love of… We were Anglophiles.”

Fast and Fearless Recording

According to the KISS Timeline, the band’s debut album came together at lightning speed. Co-producer Richie Wise wrapped up the recording in just 13 days. The music itself had roots in Gene Simmons and Paul Stanley’s earlier group, Wicked Lester, highlighting how the duo’s songwriting naturally evolved into the KISS style.

Simple Tools, Big Sound

As KISS FAQ noted, Paul Stanley recorded much of the album using his dependable Les Paul Custom guitar. That no-frills approach, combined with the band’s youthful energy, created a straightforward yet bold sound that became a cornerstone of their identity.

The band’s rawness and drive on that first album didn’t just capture where they were—it launched them into rock stardom.