Max George, a member of the now defunct boy band The Wanted, releases his debut single, “Barcelona.” The results are positive, but not game changing. 

Nathan Sykes was the first member of The Wanted to drop a solo album, the incredibly underrated Unfinished Business (2016).  Now, the world finally gets a taste of Max George, who drops his debut single “Barcelona.” Question M.G. – what took so long? Almost unbelievably, the British pop singer, songwriter, and actor is just shy of 30!

There are plenty of positives regarding “Barcelona.” First and foremost, the song is enjoyable – a fun, feel-good pop record.  Max George does nothing too crazy with his voice, but he has a nice tone that suits this up-tempo single.  Adding to the list of pros is a catchy chorus and solid, modern-pop production work. With pros also come cons, and “Barcelona” is imperfect.  The biggest rub about the record is that it’s not particularly distinct.  There have been plenty of summer records like “Barcelona” that have come and gone over the years.  It’s appealing enough, but it doesn’t come off as incredibly memorable – it’s sweet enough but could use more sugar you might say.

Final Thoughts

Nathan Sykes and Max George are two completely different singers who happened sing in the same boy band.  Perhaps doing a little comparison isn’t fair.  That said, Sykes seemed to get off to a slightly faster start than George in regards to the quality of material.  “Barcelona” is good but not great. It takes a really meaningful pop single to be transcendent mind you, but on his next single or eventually LP, it would be nice to see George dig in more vocally.  Also, it would be nice to see a more memorable, even more catchy record than “Barcelona” is.

Max George • Barcelona – Single • RECORDS, LLC • Release: 7.6.18

Photo Credit: RECORDS, LLC