April 25th, 2006
“Same Dream” is Jon Secada’s new English pop album, from an artist who was a shining pop star back in the early 90’s. Jon Secada exploded on the charts with classic singles such as “Just Another Day,” “Angel” and “If You Go.”
Jon continued songwriting for the likes of Gloria Estefan, Ricky Martin, and other Latin artists, riding the “Latin craze” of the 90’s. Jon went on to release CD’s in English and Spanish, including the “Better Part Of Me,” “Amanacer” and a Christmas album entitled “The Gift.”
Secada expanded his singing talent into the acting arena, appearing in several Broadway shows including “Grease” and “Cabaret” – in which Clive Barnes proclaimed Secada to be “A Wonderful Performer.” Secada never drifted far from his singing roots and continues his passion for singing in his latest release entitled “Same Dream.”
The CD is produced by Jon’s new record label (Big 3), who hopefully can bring new success back to Secada as a singing sensation, as well as an accomplished songwriter.
Secada wrote much of the new material for “Same Dream” and collaborated with great and long-time producer/songwriters such as Miguel “Mike” Morejon and Willy Perez-Feria aka “WillyPop”.
Secada’s voice is better than ever, stronger with great passion and control.
The grand opening of the CD is “Bring on the Sun,” which demonstrates a high potential from the beginning; and you will accidentally shout “SECADA IS BACK!”
Another track, the great radio hit and Billboard top 10, “Window To My Heart,” is a fantastic, well-arranged, upbeat classic; featuring a beautiful Spanish guitar.
Secada’s version of the Hall and Oates classic “My Baby Don’t Rock Like That” and the Reggaeton hit “Tender Love” are cool sexy tracks.
The title track, “Same Dream,” has been written and produced once again by Jon’s best friend/co-songwriter, Miami-based mega-producer Willy Perez-Feria, and is a beautiful ballad about Jon’s own life, where Jon speaks of his passion for being himself even as everything around him changes.
“All I Wanna Be” and “Someday” showcase Jon’s smooth and relaxed voice. The ballads “Last To Know” and “Love’s Tears” are eerie and romantic.
“Free” with a great Spanish tempo and “It’s Over” are well-arranged pure pop songs that make you want to listen to them over and over.
The CD closes with Jon’s own versions of the smash hits: Gloria Estefan’s “Coming Out Of The Dark” and Ricky Martin’s “She’s All I’ve Ever Had,” which were written by Secada but shared and recorded by his artist/friends initially.
All in all, Big 3 Records, with management by Bill Edwards, could be the key to make it possible to “bring on the sun” once again to Jon’s impressive singing career.
From the awesome opening to tremendous closing, this album delivers the goods wrapped up in a great package. Great album, wonderful and strong voice, fantastic music and lyrics… what else can I say? Jon! You are still the shining star.
My Overall Rating: 5/5