Fridae

Sometimes the best things come together quickly without a whole lot of fuss. Carly Rae Jepsen new album is a perfect example that. Riding high on the smash success of "Call Me Maybe," Carly Rae Jepsen didn't waste any time to put together a brand-new album to leverage her global fame. She spent most of the summer promoting her current hit singles while putting the final touches on "Kiss" that was released this week.

In a recent interview, the Canadian folk-turned-pop singer explains that the songs on the album came about quickly, and didn't take months to tweak, tune and finish. Take her new single "This Kiss" for example. That song happened after a chance meeting with LMFAO's Redfoo at an airport after a friendly scuffle with fans. The two exchanged emails and within hours they started corresponding about song ideas, which ultimately led to "This Kiss" in the most virtual of ways.

That story perfectly highlights the spontaneity and ease that drove the recording process and is also clearly reflected on the album's music. "Kiss" is a hit-loaded and fun pop record that was crafted by Jepsen in partnership with songwriters and producers Max Martin, Dallas Austin, LMFAO’s Redfoo, Toby Gad, Matthew Koma and her long-time collaborator Josh Ramsay, the lead singer of Canadian hit group Marianas Trench.

Jepsen explains in a press release that even though the album was record quickly, she has collected many of the song ideas over the years. "I can't tell you how lucky I feel to be able to collaborate with some of my dream producers," she says. "It has been the most fulfilling experience. The record is pop. It's inspired by Robyn, The Cars, Madonna, and believe it or not, James Taylor."

Taking a page from Katy Perry's playbook of masterfully-produced froth pop, "Kiss" kicks off with an immediate sugar rush on the light and fluffy "Tiny Little Bows" that was co-produced by Dallas Austin and includes a brief sample of Sam Cooke's classic "Cupid." Jepsen segues elegantly into her new single "This Kiss," a candy-coated slice of '80s edged disco pop that without a doubt will fire up the global pop charts in a no time.

Other stand out tunes include the crispy dancefloor jive "Curiosity," the emotive piano balladry of "Your Heart Is A Muscle," the saucy synth soaker "Wrong Feels So Good" and the glossy "Tonight I'm Getting Over You" that was co-written by Max Martin and packs a mighty dose of bittersweet sentiment that is another strong single contender. 

Jepsen partners with pal Justin Bieber on the sweet and folky "Beautiful" that was co-written by Bieber, Bryan Folk and hitmaker Toby Gad who previously wrote for Beyonce, Fergie and Kelly Clarkson. That tune in particular showcases Jepsen's distinct, gently raspy vocals that are perfect fit for the impeccable pop sensibilities of her music. 

There's no doubt that pop lovers everywhere will flock to "Kiss" and embrace it with open arms to give it a big, loving smooch. Carly Rae Jepsen delivers an accomplished album that shines in consistency, delivers a mighty pop punch and helps build a rock-solid foundation for her to continue her chart success. (Download Carly Rae Jepsen "Kiss" on iTunes.)

Carly Rae Jepsen - This Kiss by Interscope Records