Corporate line:
Ever since the November 2007 digital release of the hilarious, zeitgeist-capturing single “Ur So Gay,” Los Angeles-based singer-songwriter Katy Perry has been wowing critics and fans alike (including the Queen of Pop herself, Madonna) with her big voice, sassy attitude, and feisty, confessional songs. Katy’s debut album, One of the Boys, is a sharp, witty pop-rock gem filled with candid tales of neurotic ex-boyfriends (“Hot N Cold,” “Ur So Gay”), crazy road trips with friends (“Waking Up in Vegas”), and figuring out who you are along the way (first single “I Kissed A Girl,” “Fingerprints”). While the album displays Katy’s feisty, girl-power swagger, it also reveals her more vulnerable side on such regretful ballads as “Lost,” “I’m Still Breathing,” and “Thinking of You.” Although just 23, the Santa Barbara, CA-born native has been writing songs and playing guitar for several years, and possesses the flair and confidence of a veteran storyteller. Catch her in all her glory this summer when she joins the Vans Warped Tour for its entire coast-to-coast run.

The hits:
Good ideas that go nowhere.

The rest:
“One of the Boys” – Some of the most asinine lyrics you’ll ever hear–ever.
“I Kissed A Girl” – Not nearly as interesting or exciting as you’d expect. It’s not even half as good as Jill Sobule’s song “I Kissed A Girl.”
“Mannequin” – This reminds me of all those bad ’80s pop songs by female singers that would come and go which each and every season–wonder if Katy Perry is next to come and go into oblivion.

Finally:
Frankly, this album sounds like an adult woman trying too hard to be a rebellious teen. It’s not surprising when you realize her parents were pastors.

It’s hard to tell when listening to this album if Katy Perry has any redeemable qualities. Her voice sounds serviceable but the lyrics are average at best. You’d think working with Glen Ballard would have given Katy more depth than lyrics like “I hope you hang yourself with your H&M scarf/While jacking off listening to Mozart.” At least Perry is occasionally good for a laugh.

Video for “I Kissed A Girl:

Video for “Ur So Gay”