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. Produced by ex-
Buggles frontman
Trevor Horn (
Pet Shop Boys,
ABC,
Yes,
Frankie Goes to Hollywood),
Seal is far more enchanting than his debut. True,
Seal is a bit too relaxed at times, but aside from that criticism, the record is lush with harmonies and over-the-top melodies. "Don't Cry" 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. "Kiss from a Rose" and "Prayer for the Dying" established
Seal as a household name after both became radio and television mainstays. 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. ~ MacKenzie Wilson