The Pretty Reckless
Other Worlds – Century Media Records
With a four album back catalogue under their belt it was about the right time for The Pretty Reckless to release something aimed squarely at fans. ‘Other Worlds’ is a mix of mainly acoustic covers of songs that have been crowd pleasers for some time. There’s a softness in the way they are handled that will make them very popular as mood songs on playlists. Taylor Momsen still has her trademark rasp but it’s mellowed and suits the stripped back production and arrangements perfectly. Some vocalists wouldn’t have been able to throw in those subtle nuances that make acoustic come alive but Momsen nails it. Add to that a sprinkling of thoughtful guest appearances chief of which is the deft touch of Alain Johannes on ‘The Keeper’ and this becomes a record for people new to the band too. There’s more outside of the unplugged including a cover of Soundgarden’s Loud Love. It’s an immensely challenging song to take on but the result is a re-working that the sadly departed Chris Cornell would surely approve of. ‘Other Worlds’ shines a little light on the workings of The Pretty Reckless. It shows us a collection of artists at the top of their game and to a degree where their hearts and influences lie. It’s a window into an ‘other world’ we would all like to live in.
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Review by Gary Trueman