Rocktrospectiva: The Fine "Seal" Turns 35

Released on 20 May 1991 "Seal" was the debut studio album by British singer Seal, the album spawned the singles "Crazy", "Future Love Paradise", "The Beginning", "Killer" and "Violet". The album debuted at number one in the UK and went on to win Best British Album at the 1992 Brit Awards. 

Seal's following album, released in 1994, was also named Seal; it is usually referred to as Seal II. London singer/songwriter Seal certainly made a name for himself with his eponymous debut despite the comparison to fellow London mate, the raspy soul Terence Trent D'Arby. But Seal is more relaxed, and his craftsmanship is delicate and well defined. Lyrical depictions are light, songwriting is personal, and production credits are most impressive. 

With star-studded work from both Trevor Horn and Trevor Rabin, Seal is surely a critical hit. Becoming a mainstream radio mainstay for the summer of 1991, the single "Crazy" carried heavy notoriety for Seal and instantly made him a household name. His collaborative effort with Adamski for "Killer" was a massive club hit thanks to its Hi-NRG strength, but house elements are showcased other album tracks such as "The Beginning." Seal is not necessarily a dance innovator, but he makes for a select crossover artist with impeccable talent worthy of heavy acclamation and critical recognition. The general mood captured on his debut album is refreshing. His music was a major force throughout the decade and well into the new millennium. 

There were two versions of the album, with minor and major differences in three songs. The shorter version of "Wild" is more rock-based and heavy than the original. The shorter version of "Violet" contains no dialogue within the singing. Track lengths of both versions are given for each song affected. The only way to tell the difference is the CD Matrix; the Pre-Mix matrix is 903174557-2; the Remixed CD has the same Matrix but with .2 at the end (903174557-2.2). "Killer" is a re-recorded version of the UK number one single by Adamski, which also features Seal on vocals. 

Critics were remiexed calling the album pretentious and others sound a tad MOR", with textured vocals, sophisticated hooks and full and fascinating orchestral arrangements", others deemed it as a fine debut.

 

Seal Track List:  

 

1. The Beginning

2. Deep Water

3. Crazy

4. Killer

5. Whirlpool

6. Future Love Paradise

7. Wild

8. Show Me

9. Violet