The Pretty Reckless Sell Their Soul For Rock N’ Roll at the iHeartRadio Theater LA

Taylor Momsen is an imposing force. After 7 years, three albums, and four consecutive #1 songs, a feat that has not been accomplished by a female fronted group since The Pretenders in 1984, The Pretty Reckless are a symbol of rock's undying legacy. They simultaneously showcase their knowledge and passion for the greats who came before them while pushing the genre into new territory and to the forefront of rock radio. Polished, tight, and road-tested, the band celebrated the release of their third studio, Who You Selling For via Razor & Tie Recordings, with a performance at the iHeartRadio Theater LA on Wednesday, December 8th.   

The Pretty Reckless are the answer to any calloused rock fan's rejection of the new. Mixing elements across multiple sub-genres, the group combines the dark lyrics and tone of doom bands like Black Sabbath and Pentagram with big, break-neck, catchy riffs of Motörhead and Thin Lizzy. The group's authenticity is undeniable and transports you the dive bars and small clubs where rock thrives. The Pretty Reckless performed with the precision, bravado and attitude of a band in their prime.     

Dressed in all black, the sensual moans of the intro to "Follow Me Down" filled the iHeartRadio Theater. Momsen, wearing a black leather coat, unleashed her inner-Ozzy Osbourne, hunched over the microphone like a blonde gargoyle protecting her keep. After the song, ALT 98.7's Woody asked her about the inspiration behind the new album. Momsen said, "'Take Me Down" stems from the story of the crossroads and [blues legend] Robert Johnson selling his soul for Rock N' Roll. In a more personal sense, it's what I did as well. I gave everything up for it so in a sense I sold my soul for f***ing Rock N' Roll."    

Momsen and the group - Ben Phillips on guitar, Mark Damon on bass, and Jamie Perkins on drums - proceeded to perform seven more songs, including "Since You're Gone," "Oh My God," "Heaven Knows," "Take Me Down," "Prisoner," "The Walls Are Closing In/Hangman," and wrapped up the powerful set with "Living In The Storm". 

Who You Selling For features guitarist Warren Haynes of The Allman Brothers Band and Gov't Mule fame on the track "Back To The River" is available now on iTunes. Watch more of The Pretty Reckless's performance below. 

Photo Credit: Getty