In producing five (six if one counts the deluxe release) number one singles, “Teenage Dream” established Katy Perry as one of the era’s premiere pop artists. But it also created enormous expectations for Perry’s upcoming album “Prism.”
In order to live up to the standard set by “Teenage Dream,” the new album, due for release in October, cannot simply be successful. It must emerge as a bona fide hit machine.
Perry’s quest to achieve that classification for “Prism” begins with the anthemic “Roar.”
Released this weekend via iHeartRadio and for iTunes download the night of August 11, the new jam fuses the lyrical spirit of previous hits “Part of Me” and “Firework” to a punchier, more deliberate beat. Making good on its title, the vocals and guitar roar through an arena-ready chorus that includes references to eyes of the tiger and being a champion.
Musically distinct from her “One of the Boys” and “Teenage Dream” hits, “Roar” remains a risk-averse release from Perry. With a glossy composition, familiar lyrical concepts and a power-chorus, this is Katy Perry staying within the realms of her identity as “Katy Perry, Popstar.”
What is your take? Will this mirror the success of songs like “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” “Firework,” “ET” and “Last Friday Night?”
