Overlooked Part Of VV's Playing: His Chordal/Rhythm Work?

[thattimeofyear87]

Vinnie's rhythm playing was not run of the mill IMO. And because of his over-the-top lead style, I think it's a part of his playing that is overlooked.

On "Lick It Up," he brought a renewed energy to KISS' palette. There's a metallic bark and bite to the rhythm guitar, and I believe that was Vinnie leading the way. "Not For The Innocent" is demonic sounding -- that tritone-based riff and his use of the b9 interval over the B chord over "Kick you when you're down" -- demonic sounding.

The main riff in "Shoot U Full Of Love" is highly memorable.

"Ashes To Ashes" has a powerful octave-based riff, a la "Immigration Song."

"Burn" has a load of interesting riffs. The rhythms behind the solo section are excellent.

"Deeper And Deeper" has a little bit of a "Crazy Train" feel with the rhythm guitar chords. Cool use of triads against the A base. I also love how he layered the clean guitars underneath in the pre-chorus section. And there's a great modulation for the chorus.

In "Love Kills," his clean guitar work is beautiful. The descending chord sequence over "Love's dying sin is just dust in the wind..." is almost jazz-like/chord melody.

Vinnie creates a hypnotic feel with "That Time Of Year." Something about the key of D minor and his use of the open E string yields the ideal atmosphere.

And "Ecstasy" is amazing. Great use of triads and lush voicings throughout (nice harmonics in the intro). And he hovers around two different key centers for the verse and chorus: D major and E major.

What do you think about Vinnie's rhythm playing? And what are some of your favorite examples?

[doublev2]

Yes very good point.

[poserboy71]

Maybe overlooked by non-fans . The fanatics here have always championed all aspects of his playing.

[thattimeofyear87]

"Fanatics here" ... that's not condescending in the slightest.

Well, I didn't see any threads dedicated to VV's rhythm guitar playing, so forgive this non-fan for starting (another) one.

[shramiac]

Don't lie Tim, you love him as much as we do!

Yes, you are more than correct! The rhythm work is outstanding. Ashes is a prime example.

Not to mention Vinnie did THE narliest double stop bends!

[doublev2]

Rick didnt mean to offend I am sure.

[Genebaby]

Yes, Rick didn't mean offense, we're all a big family here.

Most people here are aware that Vinnie's lead, rhythm, vocals, songwriting and lyrics are of a very high standard.

Still great to talk about it, that's what we're here for.

So yes, his rhythm work is also exemplary, totally complementing the lead work of the song.

[poserboy71]

"Fanatics here" ... that's not condescending in the slightest.

Well, I didn't see any threads dedicated to VV's rhythm guitar playing, so forgive this non-fan for starting (another) one.

FUNNY, I thought you were part of this too... FUCK ME FOR COMMENTING.

Yes, NO offense was meant and I apologize for the stir.

It's a good topic and should be discussed more.
May I suggest the part of the forum where a few of our forumites pay their respect to Vinnie's rhythm skills.
Search and ye shall find.

[doublev2]

Yes I think rick was including you. Just communication break down. I am the master of breakdown.

[KissMyAss]

"Fanatics here" ... that's not condescending in the slightest.

Well, I didn't see any threads dedicated to VV's rhythm guitar playing, so forgive this non-fan for starting (another) one.

Ignore him. He lost his brains in the zombie apocalypse.

[doublev2]

He was including tim as one of the fanstics thus being nice. No need to stir shit kma.

[Genebaby]

Play nice please.

[thattimeofyear87]

Rick, my bad. I read something into your comment that perhaps was not there. Sorry for the mixup all..

[KissMyAss]

Sorry, it was only meant as a joke.
I'm better at filling columns than with people.

[Genebaby]

A comment like that could use some emoticons to help convey the tone.

[doublev2]

Rick is as kind a guy as you will find. Just a small misunderstanding