Music review: BFS crass but lovable on new album

Bowling for Soup makes no apologies for crassness on its latest album, "Sorry for Partyin'." From the lyrics right down to the album cover, which depicts the foursome frolicking in a giant toilet bowl, it's apparent that lead singer Jaret Reddick and the boys clearly channel the perspective of the average 14-year-old boy.

Much in the spirit of Primus or The Offspring, Bowling for Soup chooses this irreverent path for expression, and the result is catchy, melodic tunes that have tinges of funk, punk and 1980s alt rock. And while lyrically humorous, they sometimes aim low with the subject matter.

The first single, "My Wena," is exactly what you think it's about.

As for the album, standout tracks include the torch song "Me With No You," the 1960s-inspired "I Gotchoo" and the bouncy "I Don't Wish You Were Dead Anymore." Then there's "Belgium Polka," a modern homage to the dance music that will most likely not be heard at senior citizen centers. "BFFF" covers the platonic angle of having a gay friend with a chorus resplendent of a classic Seinfeld episode.

Though some may see this collection as an exercise in bad taste, there's no getting away from the Texas quartet's charm. Listening to this CD will not make you smarter, but it certainly may put a smile on your face. And there's nothing wrong with that.

-- AP

CHECK THIS TRACK OUT: Half way through "If Only," it felt like I knew this song forever. It reminded me a bit of The Fray on steroids.