With a release date set for her debut album, ‘Camila,’ Camila Cabello follows up hit single “Havana” with a more low-key offering with “Real Friends.”

In 2017, Camila Cabello focused on building her solo career, distancing herself from her former group, Fifth Harmony.  By the end of the year, the pop singer finally found her surefire hit with “Havana,” which appears on her debut album, Camila. Camila is set to be released during the cold winter, January 12, 2018.  Interestingly, only “Havana” makes the cut on her debut album, following a number of singles.  But, in addition to the delightful Cuban single, Cabello adds singles “Never Be the Same” and “Real Friends” to her collection.

“Real Friends” is a low-key offering from Cabello.  The production work is simple, with few frills.  Despite keeping the backdrop conservative, it’s an effective, fitting accompaniment for Cabello vocally.  Speaking of the voice, there’s more cooing than overt, dramatic vocals. She sounds beautiful and sincere, but she doesn’t necessarily pack a huge punch.  Even so, the message is strong, and some vocal harmonization and subtle cues are enough to propel “Real Friends.”

Final Thoughts 

Ultimately, how does “Real Friends” stack up? It’s an enjoyable, respectable, and thoughtful record from Camila Cabello.  What’s it’s NOT is a song that’s going to knock your socks off.  Furthermore, it suffers from having to follow the crowd-pleasing, superb hit, “Havana.” Still, it’s good – just not great or transcendent per se.

Camila Cabello • Camila • Epic • Release: 1.12.18 

Photo Credit: Epic