Taylor Momsen proves she’s more than just a pretty young face as she frontlines her own band The Pretty Reckless.
Criticized for her more than risqué clothing choices and her stick-it-to-the-man (and parents) rebel attitude 17-year-old Momsen is no newcomer to the entertainment world. She’s been performing since she was a toddler but her breakout role was that of Cindy Lou Who in the live action movie “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.” Years later she caught another big break as Jenny Humphrey in the CW’s hit series “Gossip Girl.”
Acting might have been her profession but her music was never far behind. She might be young but Momsen is extremely talented. A vocalist guitarist and songwriter Momsen shows off her talent in the band’s newly released album titled “Light Me Up.”
On Friday The Pretty Reckless’ tour stopped to play a gig for LA Weekly Presents: El Rey Theater. Set in a swanky red-walled and chandelier-adorned venue in the heart of L.A. the show was packed with people from all walks of life. Parents tweens and 20-somethings decked out in heavy black eye makeup and leather jackets joined an older crowd reminiscing their ’80s rock memories.
The crowd was not disappointed. Aside from Momsen’s less than age-appropriate outfit The Pretty Reckless gave an amazing show.
Momsen has an incredible stage presence; you almost forget she’s only been with the band for short time and that she’s only 17. She’s like a mix between Cherie Currie of The Runaways and Courtney Love of Hole — blonde and brazen yet she maintains a sense of vulnerability that is reflected in her amazing voice.
Live the energy from the band and the crowd makes the songs that much more intense. The Pretty Reckless is dark and gritty but you can tell the band is passionate about what they do. For the band the music is their only focus. They don’t fill the space between songs with inane chatter — although some explanations of songs were a little odd to say the least — and it was refreshing to get straight into the music.
With only an EP under their belt The Pretty Reckless released their debut full-length album in the U.S. Feb. 8 and it’s already taken the top spot on iTunes Top Rock Albums. Released under Interscope Records the album showcases Momsen’s skill as both a songwriter and a vocalist.
Momsen wrote all the 11 tracks on the album with the help of producer Kato Khandwala and lead guitarist and back-up vocalist Ben Phillips. The Pretty Reckless’s sound is not for the faint of heart. It’s grungy dark and heavy with a dash of morbidity and a pinch of vulnerability. Add Momsen’s hauntingly raw vocals and you have a solid rock album under your belt.
And The Pretty Reckless has done just that.
The first song on the album “My Medicine begins with a softer sound on vocals, but it quickly morphs into a gritty, guitar-centered tune. It’s catchy and although the lyrics might have you questioning Momsen’s activities, her voice is raw and honest. It’s the perfect song to lead you into the album because it gets straight to the point. Momsen is not a pop star. She’s a rock ‘n’ roll virtuoso in the making.
Make Me Wanna Die another song off the record, might turn some people away with its bold title, but it’s worth the listen. The drum and bass rhythm that the song follows is heavy and captivating. And when Momsen’s gritty vocals join in, the song solidifies the band as all rock. It’s haunting and really showcases the bands talent. This album is a definite must-hear for those of you who are willing to try the band.
Another great song off the album is Zombie.” It’s reminiscent of Gwen Stefani as the front woman of No Doubt and Amy Lee of Evanescence. It’s catchy and is just a further example of Momsen’s talent as a singer and songwriter.
The Pretty Reckless is a great band to watch. Their first album “Light Me Up is a solid rock record and a perfect way for the band to make their mark in the music industry. Even if you don’t go out and buy the album, if you have some loose change, go listen to them live. It’ll be well worth it.