Hey!
Before people feel the need to go scanning articles and such, you'll be pleased to know that the entire article is available online at a new Linux Format-backed website: www.tuxradar.com - see http://www.tuxradar.com/content/crunchbang-linux-hands for the story.
"I have a hard time justifying paying over $100 for a magazine"
Then you'll be glad to hear that if you listen to the first episode of our new podcast (http://www.tuxradar.com/content/podcast
-episode-1) you'll find out how to get a year of Linux Format for just $99. I believe that's just under your threshold 
"Can I take credit for LXF's awareness after my published letter mast month?"
Yes, you can - I honestly hadn't heard of it before your letter landed in the inbox, and I went to the site to learn more, then commissioned the review straight afterwards.
"Is #! on the coverdisc?"
I'm afraid not, and it's not likely to be either - the inclusion of proprietary bits and pieces such as DVD playback could potentially put us in line for trouble in the courts. When people aren't making any money of the software, which is basically what the community does, there's little point suing; but as we're a big company with ample coffers ripe for the taking if we slip up, we prefer to play it safe.
"I just felt that the negative points bordered on petty."
There were two points you picked up on: the near-monotone colour scheme and the use of Ubuntu in Grub. With respect to the first one, the review said "Once your eyes have become accustomed to the lack of colour, it becomes quite soothing to look at" - I don't think that's really so negative. As for printing the wrong distro name in Grub, I think that's a legitimate glitch to mention.
"But all in all, some good exposure!"
Isn't the adage, "all press is good press"? 
Anyway, do keep us updated with news - you guys are actually doing something unique in the distro world, and we'd be happy to cover it more. Perhaps Philip might like to do an interview?
Take care,
Paul Hudson
Editor, Linux Format