Who You Selling For

Being fronted by a former child actress invites skepticism, but The Pretty Reckless did a commendable job of establishing its hard rock bonafides across the band’s first two releases. The third album, last year’s Who You Selling For, sees a maturation of the band’s sound but not at the expense of its potency.

The band’s previous release, 2014’s Going to Hell was dripping with rebellion and featured fittingly aggressive lyrical and musical sensibilities. But for however catchy some the songs were, the audacity eventually became one-note. In contrast, Who You Selling For is much more varied. The first two tracks, “The Walls Are Closing In/Hangman” and “Oh My God,” channel Alice in Chains and “Ty Cobb”-era Soundgarden respectively while the third, “Take Me Down,” which plays on the familiar trope of musicians selling their souls for success, would have fit right in on the previous album. However, “Back to the River” delves into Southern blues rock (aided by guest guitarist Warren Haynes) while “Bedroom Window” is melodic, melancholic pop and album closer “Mad Love” channels 70s funk.

This coming-together of diverse musical styles serves as a showcase for Taylor Momsen’s versatility and vocal power, but The Pretty Reckless isn’t a one-person band. Ben Phillips provides competent guitar work, the rhythm section keeps up with the style changes, and Kato Khandwala’s tight production is neither overblown nor underdeveloped. Yes, there are times when the band treats familiar rock themes as revelatory or when it tries too hard to ape its grunge-era forbearers, but its raw earnestness and cross-genre appeal make Who You Selling For a worthwhile listen from a band that continues to grow.

8/10