Songwriter and singer Ben Folds said working in the studio two years after his divorce felt like popping open a champagne bottle after shaking for 18 months. Frenzied, perky and snarky, the third album from Folds, “Way to Normal,” celebrates him returning to his old self and his newly found freedom.

A frequently goofy, giddy, and intellectual mix of pop sing along tunes, ballads and raucous key pounding, “Way to Normal” displays the vast array of emotions and moods that Folds is able to articulate. At times they come in the same song. Making fun of crazy women, faux New Agers and himself as well, Founds sounds uncensored and refreshingly open.

His sincere tenor vocals, wit and up tempo melodies create the perfect blend of jabs, jokes, optimism and poetic sincerity. Regina Spektor, the quirky indie star, accompanies Folds on “You Don’t Know Me.” The song is a touching meditation regarding lovers who come to the realization that they don’t know some of the most important things when it comes to each other. It’s one of the album’s most sobering and poignant songs.

The sheer somberness and elegant piano chords of “Cologne” almost cover up the random lyrics, such as when Folds makes reference to the former astronaut driving 18 hours while wearing a diaper and then killing her husband. The song “Hiroshima (B B B Benny Hit His Head)” recalls an incident Folds encountered in Japan when he fell of the stage, landing on his head. “Bitch Went Nuts” is the boldest part of the album. It’s a funny, fast paced track promising mainstream appeal concerning dumped guys everywhere. Folds almost booted that song off the album because he used the word “bitch” in a song for the very first time. However he decided the tune was too fun to get rid of.

Folds in the album’s promotional material described “Way to Normal” as the best time that he has ever had recording. That feel definitely does translate when listening to the set.