Ben Folds shows the 'way'

Ben Folds' third solo album, "Way To Normal," showcases the ironic singer-songwriter's usual wares, such as clever lyrics backed up by the piano. However, this album, more so than his previous "Songs For Silverman," emphasizes especially his ability to satirize what society may consider "normal."

Folds spends the majority of the album mocking the celebrity idolatry, plastic surgery and text messaging that are prevalent today. The theme of Folds' latest release focuses on and pokes fun at the general emptiness of life due to modern conveniences and attitudes.

In "The Frown Song," Folds sings about how a cynical, negative attitude has become fashionable today, as people in general are less thankful and appreciative for what they already have. At one point he sings, "Hard to remember how we managed before . . . the Anthropologie store was erected on Indian burial ground," making fun of the rich and famous who act as if life without all its modern amenities is a difficult struggle.

Folds' ironic humor is present throughout almost the entire album, excluding a few more serious and heartbreaking tracks. His penchant for profanity also appears throughout the album, especially in the very fast-paced and humorous song "The Bitch Went Nuts," about a breakup gone awry. It is in this song that Folds uses what are certainly the most offensive words one can think of, probably for shock value more so than their actual contribution to the lyrics.

The majority of tracks on "Way To Normal" are more up-tempo than Folds' previous sound. He also utilizes synthesizers and distortion on this album, which add to the fast pace of many of the songs. The piano melodies are much more upbeat on this album than previously, giving songs with satirical lyrics a cheery and happy feel, which furthers the ironic effect Folds seems to be going for.

That's not to say there aren't a few slow songs. The piano played on its own in the beginning "Kylie From Connecticut" is beautiful and sets the mood of the serious and sad ballad.

A highlight of the album is Folds' duet with Regina Spektor on the first single of the album, "You Don't Know Me," a song about a couple in a stagnant and empty relationship. Regina's breathy vocals couple nicely with Folds', and the catchy beat behind the singing make this song very fun and light-hearted compared to some of the other tracks.

Folds uses many pop culture allusions on this album, at one point even referencing Lisa Nowak, the crazed astronaut charged with attempted murder after reportedly driving for hours in diapers to her lover's home. Folds' fixation with citing pop culture shows he has a strong distaste for modern societal values - or that he just likes to make fun of them.

On "Way To Normal" Folds showcases all the talent listeners already knew he had. Folds proves he can still dole out beautiful and heartfelt ballads alongside satiric pop melodies, though it is essentially nothing groundbreaking for him. "Way To Normal" is new, but it is not different for Folds.