Most contemporary mainstream bands are forced into our lives by the likes of commercial radio and MTV, and it seems that these days anybody that has a novelty song can get a record deal. I guess the way these bands poke fun at themselves about their age, their talent, and other people's talent is intended to be fun, but instead they become quite a bore. It seems that people don't really make fun music anymore. They're either taking themselves too seriously or not taking themselves seriously enough.

Enter "Teenage Frames." Now I'll admit that on the first listen, I detected the ska influences on "1% Faster," and was immediately turned off, but then I gave it a second shot, and found myself in a more jovial mood. The easy-going rock 'n roll attitude throughout the CD makes it quite listenable, and kind of makes you want to slap the nearest person on the back and yell "Yeah!" in their face. The most obvious influence is really the Rolling Stones, with the singer's throaty yelling/singing, especially on a song like "Glitter Parade" with it's big rockin' guitars and backup vocals repeating "Glitter paraaaaaade! Glitter paraaaaaaaade!"

But, the "Teenage Frames" can tone it down a bit in "Automobeat," a mellowed-out tune ala Smash Mouth, whose message is a bitter "kiss my ass." Like Smash Mouth, they do seem to have some commercial appeal. With songs titled "I Want To Go Out Tonight" and "Living It Up," the "Teenage Frames" deliver music that captures the carefree attitude of youth. This band are all about rocking out with an upbeat, fun attitude.