Gabriela

In 2001, Philippine female singer released her debut album, . The album was produced by respected Philippine music figure , who also composed eight of the album's ten songs. 's compositions have been hits for many Philippine solo artists, including some songs reworked here. sings in a rough-edged, sandpapery voice, and sounds similar to , Philippine female artist , and group . In someone else's hands these songs would sound like , but 's intense, distinctive style gives the songs more of an edge, and they sound almost like . The searing electric guitar heard on some songs also adds to this effect. There is a problem in that some songs tend to sound alike, as it sometimes seems as though is rewriting his own catalog. However, the album is buoyed by 's passionate, sincere performances, and she sings as though each syllable might be her last. All ten songs on the album are , and the album could use more diversity. Nonetheless, shines throughout the album, including an album highlight, the passionate This song, however, sounds a bit like (You Changed), which itself sounds a bit like (I Have a Love) and other songs here. 's rendition of ' is also outstanding, and her style suits this song well. is an important artist and she can make even more of a mark with more distinctive original material, as too many songs on tend to sound alike. ~ David Gonzales