THE B-52’S “Cosmic Thing.” Warner Bros. ***: Albums are rated on a scale of one(poor) tofive(a classic) stars

The B-52’s music sounds remarkably fresh considering that they’ve added nothing new whatsoever to a time-tested recipe--which basically boils down to this: Combine equal parts trash culture, zany vocals from Fred Schneider, some cheap wigs, and a hip-shakin’ beat; pour onto a turntable and party will commence shortly. One of the most striking things about “Cosmic Thing” is how wonderfully Southern it is. All the talk of dry counties, June bugs and front-porch swings leaves you hankering for the scent of magnolias, while the slower pace of life associated with the South colors the entire album. While Schneider often resorts to cloyingly coy Pee-wee Herman antics, it’s the girl singers, Cindy Wilson and Kate Pierson, who give soul to this irresistible LP, which may shape up to be the record you hear at every party this summer.