Transitioning from screen to stage is not an easy task. Most of the times, artists seem to be pigeonholed into one category and have a hard time being accepted by the general public. Few succeed on both fronts. There are some exceptions though. One of them might be Taylor Momsen, lead singer of The Pretty Reckless. She starred alongside Jim Carrey in 2000 Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch Who Stole Christmas when she was only seven. Then, she secured a leading role in the TV hit Gossip Girl, where she stayed for four seasons before trying her luck in the music industry.

The move seems to have paid off. With Death by Rock and Roll, Taylor Momsen and her band The Pretty Reckless have released their fourth album. Known for her tendency to appear scantily clad on stage, Momsen’s gritty vocals are in the same league as Halestorm singer Lzzy Hale, another female-fronted rock band. After the somewhat disappointing 2018 release, the band has decided to return to their more urgent and powerful rock sound found on their debut and Going to Hell.

After signing with a new label Fearless Records, the band seems to have found its footing. Taylor Momsen’s vocal range and power are impressive throughout. 25, the third single off the album, is a prime example of that. This is also the first time that the band has called for some extra hands along the way. Rage Against The Machine guitarist Tom Morello joins on new single So It Went. Pearl Jam and Soundgarden guitarist Matt Cameron also appears on Only Love Can Save Me Now providing a strong lead guitar that enhances the track.

It’s always hard for a band that seems to have lost its momentum to come back stronger. With Death by Rock And Roll, The Pretty Reckless has just done that. With a powerhouse frontwoman, and well-written songs, they have found the perfect formula.