The past few years we’ve seen a lot of reunions, goodbyes and unexpected breakups. This past weekend though a short reunion took place that didn’t seem likely. Frehley’s Comet, Ace Frehley’s solo band, consisting of Tod Howarth (Rhythm Guitars, lead vocals), John Reagan (Bass, back round vocals) and Anton Fig (Drums) reunited for a quick half hour show at the Indy KISS expo this past Friday.
The band opened with the classic ‘Rock Soldiers’. And honestly it didn’t sound horrible, but Ace was flubbing a bit. I think it’s mostly because he probably hasn’t played these songs in quite some time. When the band broke up in 1990 that was it for them. I don’t think they’ve played a show together. And it’s certainly been years since Ace has played some of these songs. His last few tours have focused mostly on the ’78 solo record and his newest solo material. Either way, The Comet moved on with the bad ass ‘Breakout’. Howarth’s vocals still sound great. Even after 30 plus years. It’s clear that the band has had some practice with the Four by Fate project. Whereas it’s equally clear that Ace didn’t rehearse for the show. Although the solo’s were nailed, there were still plenty of timing flubs. The band continued the set with one of my personal favorites, ‘Something Moved’. It’s a perfect Howarth lead vocal, 80’s hard rock piece. Again, Howarth’s voice still soars.
As the show progressed it turned into a Four by Fate concert. Without playing ‘Into the Night’. How can they have a reunion and not play that song? Ace left and the band honestly it sounded better. When Ace rehearses he’s great. But he’s not a guy who can just remember a song after not jamming on it for 25 years. He flubbed even with a slowed tempo. But it was good to see The Comet do a short jam together. Even if was just that. I don’t think it’s going to lead into anything. Ace has his thing and Four by Fate has theirs. But it’s always good to see old friends jamming together. And it’s also great for the die hard fans. I don’t think any of us thought they’d ever jam together again. Even if it was at an Expo gig for KISS. And even if it was for just a few songs.
