The Pretty Reckless Bring the Dear God Tour to Ottawa

The Pretty Reckless Bring the Dear God Tour to Ottawa

Photos and Review by Mark Kelly

Ottawa rock fans packed HISTORY Sunday night as The Pretty Reckless brought their Dear God Tour to the capital, joined by Paris Jackson and opening act doug.

Doug kicked off the evening with an energetic, heavier set that quickly got the early crowd warmed up.

Paris Jackson followed with a change of pace, mixing alternative, indie and folk-rock influences. Playing songs from her newly released sophomore album, Happiest Day of My Life. Her more laid-back performance and distinctive vocals created an intimate atmosphere leaving the crowd wanting more, before the evening shifted into high gear.

Shortly after 9 p.m., Taylor Momsen and The Pretty Reckless hit the stage with “Death by Rock and Roll.” From there, the band mixed favourites including “Miss Nothing,” “Make Me Wanna Die,” “Heaven Knows” and “Going to Hell” with material from their new album Dear God. Momsen was in excellent form, delivering the powerful vocals and commanding stage presence that have made her one of modern rock’s most recognizable frontwomen.

One of the night’s biggest surprises was a tribute to Canadian music with a medley of songs. The band performed Neil Young’s “Old Man” and “Rockin’ in the Free World,” Bryan Adams’ “Summer of ’69,” and Alanis Morissette’s “You Oughta Know.” Not surprisingly, the Canadian classics turned HISTORY into a huge singalong.

The Pretty Reckless eventually returned for an encore of “About You,” bringing an impressive night of rock in Ottawa to a close. With three very different artists, plenty of familiar favourites, strong new material and a few unexpected Canadian classics, The Pretty Reckless gave Ottawa fans had a memorable Sunday night at HISTORY.