Nikki Valdez' debut album,
Nikki Valdez, comprises easy listening music along with showy, Miss America-type tunes. As such, the music is mostly non-eventful, as is young
Valdez's performance. Her singing is uneven, and it's obvious she is a novice. Her poise often lacks assurance, and she probably needed more seasoning before landing a record contract. Still, she gives it her best shot and brings an attitude of professionalism to the recording.
The opening upbeat "Huwag Mo Akong Kulitin (Baka Kita Mahalin)" (Don't Try Over and Over [Because I Might Fall in Love With You]) is an example of
Valdez's uneven approach. The backing vocalists play a prominent role here, as they do elsewhere, often drowning out
Valdez's vocals.
Valdez sounds weak and tentative on the ballad "Bakit Mo Iniba?," and she struggles to find her footing. Not all her performances are bad, and her handling of the dance-inflected "Do You Feel the Same Way?" is more suave than one might expect. She also sounds more assured on the tender "Meron Ba?" ~ David Gonzales