More Pink than Slipknot, 'Light Me Up' is an obnoxious loud shot of rock-pop adrenaline (at at around 35 minutes long, it's also rather short) that is full of hook-laden, sing-along melodies and clichéd self-important lyrics (and I mean that in the nicest way possible). This is really what Avril Lavigne should have done next, but in her absence from the music scene, Momsen seems poised to pick-up where Lavigne left off.
In some ways, 'Light Me Up' is a tribute album to a variety of pop-rock performers who have come before. From the Sheryl Crow-esque title track and the fun Green Day-punk of 'Goin Down' to the 'American Pie' (the song, not the films) inspired lyrics of 'Nothing Left to Lose', there is certainly an obvious amount of inspiration throughout the CD. Inspiration does turn in to all out copying on the aforementioned Pink rip-off 'Factory Girl' and the Kelly Clarkson's 'Behind These Hazel Eyes' melody stealing 'Just Tonight'. Neither are bad songs, but in amongst all this familiarity, a bit of originality wouldn't have gone amiss.
The Pretty Reckless really shine when Momsen puts her Courtney Love hat on, on the lead singles 'Make Me Wanna Die' and the superb 'Miss Nothing'. Both the song 'Light Me Up' and 'Since You're Gone' are other highlights on an album almost completely devoid of any filler. Certainly worth the price of the CD, 'Light Me Up' is full to the brim of potential and at times completely flawless moments. Pink will want to make sure she gets that new album out soon as her pop-punk rocker crown could be jeopardy.
