"Can't Wait" by Laith Ashley - Single Review

   Gorgeous male model Laith Ashley broke new ground for the transgender community this past year by stepping into the spotlight with his personal story of transitioning, thus becoming a fresh perspective for the industry. He even starred in Oxygen’s docu-series Strut. Now, on Valentine’s Day, Ashley continues to push his own boundaries with the release of his debut single “Can’t Wait”, a mid-tempo pop tune with emphasis on passionate vocals and a sincere message of an affectionate attraction toward another.

   “Can’t Wait” is a breezy dance-tinged track, just in time for the Spring, with a touch of R&B/soul inspiration that bares some striking similarities to the recent work of Justin Bieber. On Ashley’s debut release, the artist uses his immense talents and charm to effortlessly convey the proper emotion necessary to get the lovesick feeling across to the listeners. Overall, a sense of impatience and slight obsession has never sounded more endearing or heartfelt.

   With a nearly 20-second instrumental introduction, the debut single clocks in at less than three minutes, short and to the point. Ashley cannot help but comment on every hypnotizing feature of the significant other he has his sights set on; their body, their face, their eyes. “Come on over girl, baby let me love you, allow me in your world, I can’t wait to touch you,” the artist croons on the track’s infectious and sultry hook, just before a Top 40-geared production break comes sweeping through.

   Though simplistic in terms of the songwriting, it’s that modern trend production break in the chorus that gives “Can’t Wait” a vital, memorable edge. In line with many producer-assisted radio jams released by today’s leading names, Ashley proves he can holds his own with the competition, making a passionate splash that will easily garner attention and anticipation towards a possible full length album. His controlled, soothing vocals steal the show, supported by a catchy beat.

   Working to expand his resume as more than just a pretty face and set of six-pack abs, Ashley’s unexpected release of “Can’t Wait” is welcomed and honestly better than expected. Again, though it fails to completely change the music landscape, it does work to give a different frame of reference when it comes to the typical bedroom jam. Taking the courage of the Ashley into consideration gives some intriguing, dynamic complexity to the finished product.