Certainly, the best thing to come out of Garden State since Atlantic City and the Sugarhill Gang, is the sound and stage attack known as Lipstick Magazine. Their debut cd Live From New York , is a cartridge holder of power packed tunes and soulful melodies. Track 2 "All I Want" is their best gripper and six tracks later you’re still in the line of fire. Comparisons? Lead Singer,Toni sounds a bit like Maria McKee after a long tour with the Scorpions- a melodious tone with a hard rock delivery. For those that miss the days of MSG or DeGarmo-esque solos, you’ll find comfort in the guitar work of Damon Marks and Nat Gardiner. Their sound is a whiskey-smooth, velvety, dual slinger journey that moves past tablature and recalls 80’s metal guitar Gods in their glory. Keyboardist David Loyas channels a bit of Jim Steinman in “All I Want” and adds an edge to the band’s sound. Marc Rabin on Bass and Russell K on drums are in the pocket together albeit a bit buried in the mix of a live recording. Other notable tracks include “Love Games”, “Out of Control” and “Something You Should Know”. Overall, Lipstick Magazine has the ammunition for several rounds to come. Keep them on your list of shooting ranges of firearm rock and roll.
4.5 Stars
