The Wanted - "All Time Low"

It does seem that boy bands will never die. The group JLS has followed their #2 placement on the talent competition show X Factor with a #1 album and three chart topping pop singles. Take That are as successful in their reunion as they were at their heyday over 15 years ago. Is there room for another new boy band to storm the charts? The new English / Irish boy band The Wanted say unequivocally yes, and, based on the strength of this debut single "All Time Low" it is difficult to argue with them.

Watch Video

Purchase / Download

In the grand tradition of boy bands, The Wanted were formed by selecting members from mass auditions. The group came together in 2009 and signed to Geffen Records. According to the group they are determined to change the "uncool" image of boy bands by recording and releasing an edgier style of pop music that may appeal to older audiences as well as their built-in core of teenage pop fans.

From the sound of "All Time Low," The Wanted are well on their way to reaching their goal. Co-produced and co-written by Steve Mac, who has been hitting the UK charts for the past 20 years working with the likes of Westlife and the Saturdays, "All Time Low" incorporates powerful string figures, intriguing lyrics, and distinctive vocals to form a package likely to be an instant hit. There are echoes of what makes Coldplay and the Script appealing, but the Wanted avoid any sense of high-minded artistic pretension.

Lyrically, "All Time Low" asks a simple question of how do you return from your biggest setback. It is a sentiment instantly familiar to anyone experiencing romantic pain. The accompanying music video ably demonstrates that the Wanted are quite visually appealing as well. With ages ranging from 17 to 21, the group wisely presents themselves as more adult than teen. Look for more than a few adult fans of Take That and Westlife to take The Wanted to their pop hearts.