Review:
“Fresh from his 1991 self-titled debut, Seal followed with another self-titled release. And true to form, it’s another stunning work, although it becomes clear that a musical maturation has taken place.” MW This is “a far deeper, more enduring outing than his spectacular 1991 debut.” JB Producer Trevor Horn (Pet Shop Boys, ABC, Yes, Frankie Goes to Hollywood) “channels his famous, over-the-top tendencies into a sumptious bed of sound that makes Tears for Fears sound minimal.” JB The album “is a bit too relaxed at times, but aside from that criticism, the record is lush with harmonies and over-the-top melodies.” MW
Most notable here is the song Kiss from a Rose, “a huge ballad” JB that made Seal a household name. While featured first on this album, it exploded when it became the theme song for the Batman Forever movie. That song and “soulful first single” JB “Prayer for the Dying established Seal as a household name after both became radio and television mainstays.” MW
Other standout tracks include Don’t Cry, “which flows with the luxuriant vibes of a hushed vocal and a bellowing string arrangement. Seal showcases his collaborative talent with If I Could, a duet featuring Canadian folkie Joni Mitchell.” MW
“The soul is there, hauntingly similar to singer Terence Trent D'Arby. But what’s so unique about Seal is his gift of transforming free-flowing songs into quick dancefloor tracks with a transcendent step into musical magic. His voice has a spell like that, and his second album reflects such skills.” MW
4.0
0.6
5.6
