This is going to be difficult to admit... but here goes: Jesse McCartney's latest single, "Leavin'," shows a range of growth and pop sensibility that seems a bit lacking in today's market. Yes, you read that correctly, "Leavin'" is quite good, a catchy song that makes one question whether or not we might be seeing Jesse step a bit on Justin's turf.
From the full-length high-quality songs I've previewed, Jesse, at his best, could be a threat to Timberlake. Even though this song is good, some of the other material on Departure is a bit shocking when one considers the source. Washed-up teen star McCartney is not, he's just getting started! Songs like "Make Up" and "Rock You" are impressive for their daring, even though the former could out-skank Ms. Spears.
If "Leavin'" is just a small taste of what we can expect from Jesse McCartney, I'm certainly curious to see where he's headed. Move over "Beautiful Soul" and "Right Where You Want Me," Jesse doesn't have the time anymore. He's too busy making sure Justin isn't the only one trying to bring sexy back.
