Photos and Review by Raven Divito
@rockinshots

L.A. Guns Prove They’re Still at the Top of Their Game at The Guild Theater

What an electrifying night at The Guild Theater in Menlo Park! L.A. Guns tore through a blistering 90-minute set that solidified what frontman Phil Lewis confidently declared: this is the band’s strongest lineup yet. With Tracii Guns back in full force, the chemistry onstage was undeniable—and earplugs were definitely a smart move, because the volume never let up.

Currently blazing through their Lucky MF’r Tour, the band treated a packed house of loyal fans to a mix of classics and newer cuts that hit just as hard. Set highlights included staples like “Cannonball,” “Over the Edge,” “Never Enough,” and “Sex Action,” as well as material from their recent release Leopard Skin, including the infectious “Hit and Run” and the singalong-worthy “Lucky Motherf**ker.” The crowd knew every word of the new single—no small feat for a band with a catalog stretching back decades.

The band’s sound has evolved without losing its edge. Leopard Skin, their latest album released in April, leans into bluesy swagger with touches of vintage Aerosmith and Stones—proof of their creative fire still burning bright.

From the opening notes of “Cannonball” to the final roar of “Rip and Tear,” the band was locked in and unstoppable. Tracii Guns’ guitar work was pure fire—whether shredding through rapid solos or laying into a slow, bluesy burn. Phil Lewis sounded as sharp as ever, effortlessly commanding the stage with vocals that haven’t aged a day. His delivery remains powerful, charismatic, and, above all, authentic.

Guitarist Ace Von Johnson brought swagger and finesse, holding his own alongside Tracii. Johnny Martin laid down thunderous, melodic bass lines, while drummer Shawn Duncan earned massive applause with a solo that channeled the power of John Bonham.

There was no shortage of surprises, either—like Tracii sneaking the riff from “Cat Scratch Fever” into a guitar prelude before “I Wanna Be Your Man,” or the band launching into the opening bars of AC/DC’s “Hells Bells” mid-set, igniting the crowd into a frenzy.

The show’s closing moments were nothing short of triumphant. “Never Enough,” “The Ballad of Jayne,” and “Rip and Tear” formed a final triple threat that left fans breathless and cheering. During the closer, Lewis introduced each band member, giving them all a chance to shine—a classy, rock ‘n’ roll roll call that ended in a tongue-in-cheek group dance as they bowed to the audience.

If you haven’t seen L.A. Guns recently, now is the time. With five albums released since Lewis and Guns reunited in 2016—including the critically praised Black Diamonds and The Missing Peace—this band is riding a creative and performance high rarely seen from legacy acts.

Their stop at The Guild Theater marked their first show at the venue, and Lewis was so impressed by the fans, staff, and vibe that he promised they’d return. Let’s hope he keeps that promise—because this version of L.A. Guns isn’t just surviving; they’re thriving.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the scene, L.A. Guns is not just one of the best bands from the Sunset Strip era—they’re one of the best rock bands touring today.

For the latest tour updates and news, visit L.A. Guns’ official website at www.lagunsmusic.com