Canadian singer/songwriter LISA PRICE broke on to the scene fronting a couple of bands at the beginning of the ’80s in the Toronto area, then struck out on her own by late ’82.
For debut mini-LP 1983’s “Priceless”, she assembled an all-star cast of studio musicians that included guitarists Derry Grehan (ex of Steve Blimkie & The Reason and future Honeymoon Suite), Bernie LaBarge (Zwol, Kim Mitchell), and John Albani (Lee Aaron, ex Wrabit), bassist Ron Garant of Dalbello, Grant Slater and Gerald O’Brien (Wrabit, Surrender, Zappacosta), and drummer Gary McCracken (Max Webster), and Manta Sound regular backup singers Corina Phillips, Shaun Jackson, and Sharon Williams.
Unfortuntely the only recording by Lisa, the mini-LP defined the era’s hard-edged melodic rocker chick scene – slick production on guitar and keys-edged melodic rock. Price’s powerhouse vocals dominate the songs, all good.
Now 2025 after many years finally “Priceless” is being available at all digital outlets, however sound quality isn’t that good. But we have here the pretty rare YesterRock Records official reissue – and only – on CD for the first time, remastered – and this is the real deal.
First track “Can’t Hold On Forever” is an early ’80s-style pure AOR gem. Penned by Bernie LaBarge (who also play fantastic guitars), this tune has all you may expect from a classy, first half of the Eighties song in this genre: melody, killer vocal harmonies, superb guitars and ethereal keyboards. Perfect.
“Heartache” has an irresistible midtempo pace with flavor ala earlier Honeymoon Suite, maybe because it’s written by future Honeymoon Suite guitarist Derry Grehan. His 6-string work shines as well, and Lisa’s performance is deep and emotional.
The highly radiable “Everywhere I Go” reminds of Patty Smyth & Scandal. A commercial and catchy track with guitars and songwriting, again, by LaBarge. “No One’s Business” is a fast paced melodic rocker featuring thrilling hot guitars and a contagious chorus. Great hammond-like keyboards too.
Nils Lofgren’s cover “Empty Heart” has a terrific typically ’80s arrangements, just listen that monster pulsating bass and big drums. Lisa’s vocal style here is rawer, almost ‘Live’.
“Runaway” is driven by a great riff and an intense vocalization in the vein of Lee Aaron / Pat Benatar. This track has ‘that magic’ ’80s atmosphere impossible to replicate nowadays.
“Priceless” is an apt title for this miniLP; its value cannot be determined. Defines the Eighties female fronted AOR / Melodic Rock like a few. All tracks are high quality examples of what this genre is all about, perfectly produced by Paul Gross (Triumph, Rush, Saga).
A Must for female-fronted melodic rock / early Canadian AOR fans.
1 Can't Hold On Forever
2 Heartache
3 Everywhere I Go
4 No One's Business
5 Empty Heart
6 Runaway
Lisa Price – Priceless 2025, Remaster
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