After taking a step back to refine his sound, CJ Jarratt is officially back, and he’s hitting the ground running with his first release of the year—Bad For My Teeth. Released on March 14, 2025, this pop-punk-fueled power anthem takes a hard look at the toxic side of love, wrapping its heavy themes in a high-energy, feel-good sonic explosion that’s as catchy as it is cathartic.
Drenched in 2000s nostalgia, Bad For My Teeth brings to mind the golden age of bands like Paramore, Fall Out Boy, and Avril Lavigne, with its punchy guitars, anthemic chorus, and driving rhythm section. But beneath the bouncy, jump-around-your-room energy, there’s a sharply observant and deeply personal message about relationships that aren’t as sweet as they seem.
Inspired by his own past experiences, CJ explores the contrast between how a relationship looks from the outside versus how it actually feels when you’re in it. The title itself is a clever metaphor—something that tastes good at first but ultimately wears you down. “This song is for anyone who needs to realize that their relationship might not be good for them,” CJ explains. “It’s a hard thing to admit to yourself, but maybe if this song resonates with you, it might help you ask some big questions about whether you’re with the right person or not.”
While the lyrics tackle themes of emotional strain, self-awareness, and personal growth, the infectious melodies and vibrant production make this an undeniable earworm. It’s the kind of song that makes you want to shout the lyrics at the top of your lungs while dancing around like nobody’s watching—a classic case of sad lyrics masked in a euphoric pop-rock package.
CJ’s ability to turn personal reflection into a relatable anthem is what sets him apart as an artist. After taking time away to hone his craft and shape his musical identity, Bad For My Teeth marks his return with renewed energy and a clear sense of artistic direction. It’s a track that not only solidifies his place in the pop-punk revival movement but also introduces a fresh, authentic voice with a knack for balancing introspection with pure, unfiltered fun.
For fans of modern pop-rock revivalists like Olivia Rodrigo, Meet Me @ The Altar, and The Regrettes, CJ Jarratt is an artist to keep on your radar. With Bad For My Teeth, he’s proving that the best kind of heartbreak anthem is one that makes you want to sing, scream, and dance all at once.
