CD Review: Teenage Dream
Artist: Katy Perry
Capitol Records
Katy Perry’s new album is not just about unforgettable California girls who are so hot that they’ll melt your Popsicle… fortunately.
Unlike the majority of pop albums, Teenage Dream is a 12-track album consisting of a mix of catchy and happy upbeat party songs and slow sorrowful tunes.
Perry, one of the main lyricists, talks about typical teenage life: sex, partying and break ups. Every song is either filled with excitement or emotion, delivering a perfect soundtrack to teenage lifestyle.
Lyrically, many college students can definitely relate to taking too many shots and having a ménage a trois that happened “Last Friday Night (TGIF).”
Many of the tracks have some type of sexual connotation: the hidden ones where your honey is so sweet when you give her the “Hummingbird Heartbeat,” and the not-so-hidden ones such as wanting to see your “Peacock,” with the second syllable repeated over and over again.
But hold on! Perry’s teenage fantasy is “Not Like the Movies”! Every special moment has its reality, unfortunately. Besides, life just isn’t complete without some dram; Perry sings quite painfully about an ex-boyfriend in “The One Who Got Away.” In another song, Perry describes herself as a shiny “Pearl” that’s being hidden because of an abusive relationship.
Overall, Perry captures a glimpse of many aspects of a stereotypical teenager.
Musically, Perry seems to have stepped out of her comfort zone this time. Compared to her last album, there is definitely a larger variety of music styles and techniques.
Surprisingly, Teenage Dream isn’t just another assembly-line pop music album. Perry explores her musical styles from pseudo-lullabies to ones like “California Gurls.”
Whether you’re looking for a good time with your friends getting ready to party or just having a bad day and wanting to listen to something emotional, be sure to add Perry to your playlist!