Katy Perry Teenage Dream Capitol
Ms. Perry isn’t exactly an edgy pop diva on par with the likes of Lady Gaga or Pink, but her latest, “Teenage Dream,” is definitely a significant step in that direction.
Beyond the obvious (and formulaic) hit that is “California Gurls,” there’s an annoying adherence to that taught, synthesized, auto-tuned pop formula from song to song. But the few occasions where she deviates from that formula are worth the trip.
“Circling the Drain” is a darker, angrier and far more welcome song in the set, with an almost gothic slant. “Peacock” is a sassy track that borrows a little from the electronica side of the musical spectrum. “Pearl” and “Not Like the Movies” are great pop ballads, but it’s the latter’s absence of blunt studio trickery that really makes it shine.
This album is definitely a dream for teenagers, but fans with more adult tastes might want a little more substance.
Kylie Minogue Aphrodite Astralwerks
Seeing as Kylie is an international pop star and not too concerned with the fickle nature of the American music consumer, we can’t really fault her for sticking to the Europop sound for which she’s known for. And while this collection of songs isn’t as adventurous as her last effort, 2008’s “X,” it’s still more solid than the latest offering from global superstars like Madonna and Britney.
If the first song of the album doesn’t grab you, call it a day. But if it hits your pop sweet spot, then you’ll be rewarded with other catchy tracks like the trance-influenced “Closer” and songs like “Better Than Today” and the title track, which manages to wring out some impressive swagger compared to the rest of the tracks.
If it ain’t broke …
Lady Gaga The Remix Cherry Tree/Interscope
Normally remix albums aren’t exciting, but since the inspiration for this one is an edgier name in pop music, hopes ran high.
Disappointingly, most of these remixes go the techno route. You’d think these remix artists would try to live up to Gaga’s genre-hopping freak factor, but for half of the album, it doesn’t happen.
The other half provides moments of brilliance, such as Marilyn Manson’s kinetic remix of “LoveGame.” Stuart Price’s remix of “Paparazzi” toys with the key of the vocals, resulting in a fresh take. Both “Bad Romance” and “Dance In The Dark” benefit from darker, new-wave makeovers.
“The Remix” may be a must-have for DJs and hardcore Gaga fans; everyone else should hold out for her next studio album.
Margaret Cho Cho Dependent Clownery Records
Comedian Cho expertly showcases her songwriting chops and sense of humor on her first musical CD.
Yeah, we know others have tried the serious-music route, but with Cho, the results are more Henry Rollins than Eddie Murphy.
Granted, the lyrics on songs like “Your Dick,” “My Puss” and “Eat Shit and Die” might elicit a smirk but the music is no joke, especially with guest performances by Tegan & Sara, Ben Lee, Ani DiFranco and Fiona Apple.
Cho convincingly covers a lot of territory, from rock (“Baby, I’m With The Band”) to folk (“Hey Big Dog” and “Lice”) to electro-pop (“Asian ADJacent”). Cho also has the voice to pull off the songs and could give Stevie Nicks or Debbie Harry a run for the money.
We always knew Cho was talented, but her CD is truly a pleasant surprise.
Larry Nichols can be reached at [email protected].