One of the Boys

iTunes Review

The hit from Katy Perry’s debut, “I Kissed a Girl” (haven’t we been down that road?) pretty much epitomizes the rest of the album: a catchy mix of mostly clever, and sometimes naughty, pop songs built on simple structures made for dancing, and up-front vocals for unfettered sing-alongs. Like Liz Phair and Alanis Morissette before her, Perry seems to be reveling in exploring relationships and sexual roles in a pretty public way. With co-writing credits on the album attributed to writers and producers of Britney Spears, Morissette, Kelly Clarkson, etc., one wonders just whose stories she’s telling, but whether it’s manufactured naughtiness or not, one must admit that Perry’s voice is pretty powerful, and the guilty pleasures of “I Kissed A Girl” — infused with a snappy, Joan Jett-style arrangement — and the admittedly funny “Ur So Gay” (no, it’s not anti-gay, lighten up people!) are like indulging in your favorite junk food late at night. Jangly guitars on the ribald “Waking Up in Vegas” and the big disco sound of “Hot N Cold” also deliver good times, and Perry’s vocal stretching on the acoustic “Lost” and the lovely bonus track “I Think I’m Ready,” are standouts.