Tim McPhate | KISSFAQ
When KISS fans think of Vinnie Vincent, menacing heavy-handed riffs in songs such as “Not For The Innocent,” “Young And Wasted,” “Killer,” and “Fits Like A Glove” are likely to come to mind. Or over-the-top shredding solos on Invasion songs “Animal,” “Boyz Are Gonna Rock,” “Ashes To Ashes,” and “I Wanna Be Your Victim.” Or even his twisted (no pun intended) take on the solo for KISS’ classic “Calling Dr. Love” from Rio 1983.
It’s no secret that Vinnie’s guitar work with KISS and the Invasion is as subtle as the deep growl emanating from Gene Simmons’ Punisher. However, in digging deep within Vinnie’s personal discography, 1977’s eponymous “Treasure” offers a beautiful contrasting overview of his six-string sensibilities, showcasing a youthful Vinnie Cusano in a musically mature, melodic light.
A project formed by Rascals’ alumnus Felix Cavaliere, “Treasure” is steeped richly in elements of ’70s melodic AOR rock, lying somewhere close to the musical ballpark of bands such as Foreigner, Boston and Kansas. Cavaliere’s “blue-eyed soul”-laced vocals add a unique element to Treasure’s sound, which is rounded out by ex-Fabulous Rhinestones drummer Jack Scarangella and journeyman bassist Rick Laird.
Matching the veteran Cavaliere’s impressive vocals and keyboard stylings, Vinnie’s guitar playing is a high point throughout this lost album, both in terms of his rhythm guitar work and solos. With regard to the latter, on “Treasure” we find tangible evidence of Vinnie’s self-professed love for Jeff Beck and a smattering of techniques that would become hallmarks in the style of Vinnie’s shredding alter-ego.
