It is rare that a debut record roars out of the box like this with a major dose of self assurance. It is even more rare when the primary artist is 17. With a musical maturity well beyond her chronological years, Taylor Momsen pulls out a searing rock attitude that will make you want to hear this album again and again. She knows her historical reference points and puts them together in a package which will make you realize how much you've missed real rock music in an era of dance pop dominance.
Hard Rocking Songs With a Pop Sensibility
Taking cues from her heroes like the Who and Led Zeppelin, Taylor Momsen delivers songs that rock and rock hard, but they never lose sight of the value of a pop hook and melody. A perfect example is the single "Make Me Wanna Die." You are likely to find yourself playing air guitar in the ultra-catchy break between "Every time I look inside your eyes," and, "You make me wanna die." "Goin' Down" roars out of the box with massive noise and feedback, but at heart it is nearly a bubblegum raveup capped by the massive hook, "What I need is someone to save me, 'cause I am goin' down."
Bluesy Flourishes
Taylor Momsen never forgets that classic rock is built on a blues platform. When she explores that vein a bit further such as on the opening cut "My Medicine" or the resigned "Nothing Left To Lose," there is an air of a singer who has put 40 years of living into her first 17 years of life. The air of authenticity is powerful and will likely bring a smile of recognition to older rock fans who otherwise would not seek out the work of a teen artist.
Top Tracks on 'Light Me Up'
- "Since You're Gone"
- "Make Me Wanna Die"
- "Goin' Down"
- "Nothing Left To Lose"
- "Factory Girl"
Taylor Momsen Is a Talent Worth Noting
Breaking into mainstream pop radio will be a difficult task for The Pretty Reckless. However, this is music that pop fans should hear. It is a perfect counterweight to the sweet, upbeat dance pop dominating the radio today. Listen to The Pretty Reckless and feel the power of rock once again. Pop music needs these sounds, and I want to go to the party with that "Factory Girl."
Released February 2011 by Interscope
