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Image Courtesy: Louder Sound
On 14th November, legendary rock band KISS made their live comeback for the first time since founding guitarist Ace Frehley's death at their much awaited 'KISS Kruise: Land-Locked' residency in Las Vegas. The event marked a heartfelt remembrance for Frehley, who passed away in October following a sad fall at his house, as well as a celebration of the band’s classic songs. As the band honoured their late "Spaceman," fans were treated to an unfiltered and intimate performance, with leader Paul Stanley delivering devoted remarks that encapsulated both appreciation and loss.
A Bittersweet Return: KISS Back on Stage
During their 'KISS Kruise: Land-Locked' residency in Las Vegas on 14th November, legendary rock band KISS made an emotional comeback to the stage for the first time since founding guitarist Ace Frehley passed away. After a fall at his New Jersey home, Frehley, who fans call the "Spaceman," suffered blunt damage to his head and died on 16th October at the age of 74.
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Image Courtesy: Louder Sound
By performing an unplugged, unmasked concert under electric candlelight, the current lineup—Paul Stanley, Gene Simmons, Tommy Thayer, and Eric Singer—created a raw, emotional ambiance that highlighted how much Ace's presence is still deeply felt even in his absence, and how the void will forever haunt in rock music.
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Image Courtesy: New York Post
"We Certainly Had Differences, But That's What Family Is About"
Paul Stanley spoke passionately to the Las Vegas audience about Ace's legacy prior to the band's starting song. He said, "Obviously, before we get going—and we're going to have an awesome time—we just wanted to take a moment to think about somebody who was at the foundation of this band…We're talking about Ace. We certainly had differences, but that's what family is about."
He then asked for a moment of silence, adding, "think about him looking down on us…from [the planet] Jendell, probably—and let's have a moment for Ace."
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Image Courtesy: NME
The silent remembrance of Frehley's life and influence was transformed into a heartfelt celebration as the fans started screaming, "Ace! Ace! Ace!" in unison as the crowd held aloft electric candles.
The event celebrated the foundational importance of a guy with whom they had genuine, human differences but who was nevertheless regarded as family, capturing the bittersweet nature of their relationship.
Ace's Legacy and What This Means for KISS Going Forward
In addition to being KISS's guitarist, Ace Frehley was a major creative figure who shaped the band's early sound and persona. He was praised for his flamboyant solos and extravagant "Spaceman" character, and he contributed majorly to some of their most well-known songs. His death, ruled an accident after a fall, has left a large void in the band's history.
Still, during the three-day event, KISS leaned into that legacy, blending acoustic moments with full electric sets and giving long-time fans a chance to grieve, remember, and celebrate the man who helped launch the band.
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Image Courtesy: Daily Mail
As they move forward—performing without the face paint and acknowledging their roots—the tribute makes it clear: Ace Frehley may be gone, but his presence in the heart of KISS and fans will always remain.