Regine Velasquez - Reason Enough

In 1993, Philippine singer Regine Velasquez, one of the most popular singers in the country, released Reason Enough, her first album for PolyCosmic Records, her new label after leaving Vicor. (PolyCosmic was a joint venture between then major-label PolyGram and a local Philippine independent). Reason Enough is a mixture of passionate, easy listening love songs, which are quite popular in the Philippines, and songs with a modern, contemporary touch, more attuned to international ears. One highlight of Reason Enough is a duet between Velasquez and American singing legend Paul Anka on the ballad, "It's Hard to Say Goodbye," on which Velasquez acquits herself quite well and sings with an inspired touch. The album opens on the modern and upbeat, "Is This Feeling for Real," and continues on a soulful ballad called "Tonight," both of which might interest an international crowd. "Kung Kailan Pa" ("Why Only Now") and "Damdamin Ko Sa 'Yo" ("My Feelings to You"), however, are both decidedly for a Philippine audience. On some songs, such as the ballad "Sana'y Maulit Muli" ("I Hope It Will Happen Again"), Velasquez sounds absolutely masterful, her voice sure and strong, but on other songs such as "Say You Love Me," her voice sounds thin and unimpressive. Her singing isn't consistently brilliant on the album, but when she shines, she shines brightly. According to the label, Reason Enough sold very well.