One of the Boys (Deluxe Version)

iTunes Review

The hit from Katy Perry’s debut, “I Kissed a Girl”, pretty much epitomizes the rest of One of the Boys: former-Christian-gospel-singer turns out a mix of mostly clever and sometimes naughty pop songs built on simple beats made for dancing, with up-front vocals for unfettered sing-alongs. Like Liz Phair and Alanis Morissette before her, Perry revels in exploring relationships and sexual roles, and since we consumers are often voyeurs, too, it’s working out pretty well for Perry. With co-writing credits on the album attributed to writers and producers for Britney Spears, Morissette, Kelly Clarkson, etc., it’s clear that a lot of hands were involved in the grooming of this particular pop diva.  However, one must admit that Perry’s voice is 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!) are like indulging in your favorite junk food late at night.  Amidst other frothy, radio-friendly numbers, the lovely bonus track “I Think I’m Ready” is a surprisingly grown-up tune, worthy of attention.