The Pretty Reckless Concert Review

The Pretty Reckless concert review – Cleveland, OH – House of Blues – 10.29.14

The Pretty Reckless hit town last night at the House of Blues and they left no stone unturned. I was expecting a very different show from The Pretty Reckless than what they delivered. Singer Taylor Momsen has grown up. She started off on the iconic TV show “Gossip Girl,” but left to pursue her dreams in music. She was young, rich and blonde with attitude – she sang live – and she sounded amazing and fiery in an industry that could have eaten her for breakfast. However, no one was prepared for the vocal fury she unleashed. On her band’s first album (2010’s ‘Light Me Up’) and tour, Momsen garnered attention for her unique gothic look,  deep voice, and uncompromising attitude.  There were comparisons with Pat Benatar and Stevie Nicks – and rightfully so. This girl can belt one out.

Playing House of Blues for the third consecutive year, The Pretty Reckless have sold more tickets each time, nearing a sell out this time through town. The band’s latest album – ‘Going to Hell’ (03.12.14; Razor & Tie) – marked a departure from their previous material and significantly more laden with blues, soul, and depth. Momsen took the stage with her long blonde locks swinging, tiny body and amazing voice. Wearing a shirt promoting one’s own band is a big ‘no-no’ but, somehow, Momsen managed to pull it off. She ripped into “Follow Me Down” from ‘Going to Hell’ and “Since You’re Gone” from ‘Light Me Up’ before unleashing a healthy dose of the band’s new album. From there, the band played just a few songs from their first album such as “Miss Nothing” and the group’s most notable single to date, “Make Me Wanna Die.” Momsen gave a great performance, but her new bluesy roots soon came to the surface as the band played extended versions of “House on a Hill” and “Why Did You Bring a Shotgun To The Party.” The Pretty Reckless has transformed from a rock and roll band into a blues powerhouse, with Momsen capably taking the lead, and leading the band to hell.
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The Pretty Reckless – “Cold Blooded” – House of Blues Cleveland – 10.29.14 (Courtesy of YouTube user Aisha Mo)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2vbefWuTq6c

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In an unusual pairing, hard rock band, Adelitas Way opened the show. The band, hailing from Las Vegas, started off the evening with the sweet croon of Morrissey and the back-up band of Alice in Chains. Singer Rick DeJesus paced the stage with his shirt open, fully utilizing the full effect of his sex appeal, hair in his face, harkening back to the days of early Bush. He introduced the song “Stuck” as his favorite song off the new record and the near capacity crowd cheered enthusiastically.  The band was polished and they delivered. As a new band, it may be hard to find your groove, but Adelitas Way did not have a problem. They took the stage as seasoned professionals and carried the audience into the Pretty Reckless with abandon.  Adelitas Way has been lucky, but not without talent, and their show last night was a testament to that fact.