L.A. Guns : Leopard Skin

There’s not too many of the classic 80s Sunset Strip rock bands left making music that sounds even remotely close to what they sounded like back in the neon decade. Have you seen any current clips of Mötley Crüe? How about Ratt? Or Dokken? Quiet Riot, anyone? Time, booze, and narcotics have not been kind to the leather pants and eyeliner contingency of the 80s hard rock scene.

L.A. Guns released their debut in 1988. The original line-up came after guitarist Tracii Guns and Axl Rose’s Hollywood Rose formed Guns n Roses. Guns split from that and reformed L.A. Guns, releasing the band’s self-titled debut. Once British singer Phil Lewis replaced the short-lived vocalist Paul Black, and W.A.S.P.’s drummer Steve Riley replaced drummer Nickey Alexander, the “classic” lineup was complete. In 1989 the band released arguably their best album, Cocked & Loaded. With Guns’ pop metal hooks and Phil Lewis’ ragged yet melodic vocals, L.A. Guns stood out on the scene.

There have been 14 albums in nearly 40 years, with Tracii Guns being the constant creative force. And besides a 4-year hiatus in the 90s Phil Lewis remains behind the mic. The band’s 15th album, Leopard Skin, shows that L.A. Guns still has some pop metal hooks under their sleeves.

Album opener “Taste It” starts out rocking out of the gate. Big riffs and big drums sound more like AC/DC than 80s hair metal. On first listen Phil Lewis sounds like he’s struggling a bit, like Brian Johnson singing under duress. Thankfully single “Lucky M***********” has the classic groove vibe L.A. Guns is known for. Wah wah guitars, nasty funky rhythm section, and Lewis sounds like his old 80s self here. There’s even some great harmonies leading into the chorus. “The Grinder” goes full sleaze with some great slide guitar and Lewis sounding a lot like 80s Steven Tyler. In fact, this song has a very “Love In An Elevator” vibe.

Elsewhere “I’m Your Candy Man” goes for a 70s glam feel, while “Runaway Train” has a country blues stomp to it with some great dobro playing courtesy of Tracii Guns. The only thing resembling a ballad is “The Masquerade”. Not quite “Ballad of Jayne” good, but not bad.

L.A. Guns sounds far better than you’d think. Tracii Guns and Phil Lewis keep the party vibe going long after closing time. Leopard Skin is proof of that.