The Pretty Reckless | Death by Rock and Roll Review

By Griff Stevens

The Pretty Reckless are releasing their fourth studio album on February 12, 2021, called Death by Rock and Roll. The band is working with Matt Cameron of Pearl Jam and Soundgarden and has signed with Fearless Records. The band has released four singles from the upcoming album. The single “Death by Rock and Roll” rose to the top of the Mainstream Rock Chart, making The Pretty Reckless the first female-fronted band to have five number-one singles.

Tom Morello joins the band on “And So It Went.” Morello is the guitarist for Rage Against The Machine and Audioslave. The band’s singer, Taylor Momsen, says: “The world has been in such a state of civil unrest. ‘And So It Went’ basically comes from that vision. As a songwriter, I feel like I’m not here to preach. I use music to observe and communicate what I see around me. This song felt like the perfect storm for Tom Morello to join in and rip the sound waves apart with his guitar. It was more than a pleasure having him add his unique and defining sound to the song.” The music starts with a heavy riff that builds to a powerful pulse. Momsen’s vocals are aggressive and full. The song visits various feels and flows through tension and release. The bridge is a moment of sensitivity before the rage of the storm returns with Morello’s guitar work.

“25” opens with a haunting clean guitar figure and marching snare drum. Momsen’s voice takes a sweeter tinge as the song builds. The vocal harmonies are impressive, as is Momsen’s vocal range and power. The ascending guitar part adds drama as the band’s songwriting style is built around catchy melodies and well-written instrument parts. The bridge again offers a beautiful moment of fresh air. The vocal harmonies leading backing to the final chorus are beautiful and Momsen’s vocal power is in full bloom for the last section.

The Pretty Reckless has the perfect formula of well-written songs, technically proficient players, and a powerhouse frontwoman. Momsen’s vocals command power as the band creates the sonic stage for her to excel. The songs have many moods and feelings, making them exciting and standing up to repeated listens. The Pretty Reckless ROCK! Set a date for February 12, 2021, and get Death By Rock And Roll.