Rising pop artist MAX, returns for the first time as the lead artist in 2018 on single, “Still New York,” featuring rapper Joey Bada$$.   

Max Schneider, better known as MAX, released his official debut project, Hell’s Kitchen Angel, in 2016.  The rising pop musician still hasn’t quite broken through to the mainstream but has definitely experienced a taste of success.  Following a strong single in “Meteor” (released in November 2017), and a couple of collaborative singles in 2018 (“Team” with Noah Cyrus and “Sax on the Beach” with Party Pupils), he returns as the lead artist on single “Still New York.” He gets a big assist courtesy of New York rapper Joey Bada$$.

First and foremost, MAX delivers stellar vocals.  His tone is beautiful, and he sings with incredibly clarity.  On the chorus, the energy that he brings is awesome.  Here, he trades some of the clarity of the verses for more grit. Music is all about choices, whether you’re the listener, the performer, or the composer, and he makes great performance choices. Another winning aspect of “Still New York” is the optimistic production work.  It propels MAX forward, never inhibiting him in the least.  In simplest terms, ‘he owns it.’ Joey Bada$$ brings an excellent change of pace on the third verse, though doesn’t dare eclipse the star.  Following the predictable but respectable contrast, Schneider digs in even more, showing off the full breadth of his instrument.

Final Thoughts 

“Everywhere I go, I ain’t changed at all / Always on the road / I’m still New York.” Nothing wrong in the least with hometown pride MAX, sigh.  All in all, “Still New York” is a rock-solid pop record.  The song is well written, and certainly speaks to the “Hometown Glory” that Adele once sung about, but MAX is clearly the best part without question.  Hopefully, his big breakthrough is coming soon.

MAX • Still New York – Single • DCD2 / Crush Music • Release: 6.26.18

Photo Credit: DCD2 / Crush Music