The Pretty Reckless formed in 2009, helmed by fierce vocalist Taylor Momsen. Their style has changed drastically over the years. On “Going To Hell,” the band seem to be most confident and self-assured, drifting towards a similar hard rock sound to contemporaries such as Halestorm and Flyleaf, but with a heavier emphasis on grunge. The guitars rattle and swirl, the vocals are gravelly, and the lyrics are dark and dramatic. The anthemic choruses of songs like “Heaven Knows” and “Make Me Wanna Die” are unapologetic and unrepentant, a call to anyone who takes pleasure in being unruly and defiant. While listening in the comfort of a bedroom, one can picture Momsen striding around the stage in copious amounts of leather and eyeliner, belting the words in true rock star fashion. The band’s most recent album “Who You Selling For” takes a turn, arriving at a mix of a softer, more intimate sound and the expected grunge-rock combo. Often the guitars are spaced out, the vocals solemn rather than shouted, and the lyrical content reflective rather than antagonistic. “Who You Selling For” adds texture to The Pretty Reckless’ typically headstrong sound, interspersing their gritty, hard-hitting style with moments of contemplation, albeit still delivered over hefty guitars.
Favorites: “Make Me Wanna Die,” “Heaven Knows,” “Follow Me Down”
Similar to: Halestorm, Flyleaf, Cilver
The Offbeat 