Get Awkward! No Really.

by Meghan Palagyi in Album Reviews, New Releases

The newest album from Be Your Own PET does not disappoint. “Get Awkward” is more of the spazzy, fun, fast party rock fans have grown to expect from female lead singer Jemina Pearl. While the songs are not the stuff of genius, they are quite enjoyable nonetheless. This album in particular is more coherent then previously released material from the band, which has consisted of a string of e-p’s and singles. Their self-titled album did not impress me, but their sophomore effort does.

Full of energy and sass, Pearl brings it to the table with her powerful vocals. Backed by simple guitar, bass, and drums, her attitude blares through on every track. The formula works and the foursome does it well. On the “Kelly Affair”, Pearl is concerned about her band’s well-being when she she yells “It could be dangerous living in this valley, everybody here parties all the time, everybody here’s got sex on their mind, everybody here is popping pills!” This is the current single, and it really shines as a summer song. “Twisted Nerve” is about a guy on her shit list, and words are not minced about what a jerk he was. Literally. Pearl sings, “You’re such a tease, you’re such a jerk why do I waste my time?”. I don’t know, but I am glad that I am not her bad side. While the lyrics are not mature, that is the whole point.

All of the members are young, and it’s clear they do not want to grow up. They fill their own ratty Converse without any wiggle room. Easy to sing and dance to, it’s hard not to move around when the album is on. Other material covered includes crushes, dumb bitches, and food fights. Pearl really does take out her frustration and criticisms of her peers, much to the listeners’ amused delight.