Pop Evil January 22, 2010

With Lipstick On The Mirror (Universal Republic/Pazzo Music), the Grand Rapids quintet revs up rock n' roll. Their first full-length album is just as loud and proud as the midwestern mecca where they hail from. Pop Evil push out a propulsive combination of epic guitar leads, massive sing-a-longs and bombastic beats on songs like Breathe and 100 in a 55. When all is said and done, these five men provide the proverbial kick in the pants that hard rock needs these days.When they get together, singer Leigh Kakaty, bassist Matt DiRito, drummer Dylan Allison and guitarists Tony Greve and Dave Grahs make fist-pumping rock with edge and heart. Leigh explains, We're very driven by classic rock, and we're more worried about writing good songs than creating a sound. If it gets us excited, we go with it. Pop Evil formed in 2001 when lifelong friends Dave, Dylan and Leigh began seriously gigging around Grand Rapids. In 2005, they recorded their debut EP with acclaimed producer Al Sutton (Kid Rock). Quickly, Leigh and Co. unleashed their first single Somebody Like You on local radio station 97.9 WGRD. The track was quickly bumped into regular rotation and it became the most requested tune on the station. Local buzz began to build more and more after the band's radio success. In 2007, Pop Evil rounded out their current lineup with Tony and Matt. Solidifying their creative core, they went back into the studio and cut 100 in a 55, which landed them at #1 again on WGRD. Michigan is integral to the band's story in terms of inspiration and support. We grew up as fans of Detroit Rock City artistsfrom Eminem and Kid Rock to Bob Seger, says Leigh. The Detroit Lions, Red Wings and Pistons never get old for people in Michigan. A cranked up guitar, grinding drums and emotional lyrics never get old either. Michigan appreciates rock n roll.

Official Website: http://www.americantowns.com//events/pop-evil