Bubble gum rock of the past is almost in the same vein as the melodic pop rock of today. Secret Smile is one of those bands that fit in the genre; they have that pop sound with easy listening melodic vocals, similar to the style of Nick Gilder (Hot Child in the City) or Mike Tramp (WHITE LION). All the songs are balanced and could be played on pop stations around the globe. Two of the tracks have background vocals by Ted Poley (Danger, Danger).
“Feels Like Forever To Me” is a flowing ballad that has tantalizing vocals that ooze into your mind. Many of the tracks will be burned into your memory such as “Like Talking to a Stranger” as it even has a short keyboard and guitar sequence that sounds like Van Halen’s “Jump”.
Secret Smile has some great harmonies that add to that sing-along style. Lead vocalist T.J. Gabriele’s high-pitched vocals are the main attraction. The songwriting skills by Ken Barberio and T.J. Gabriele are a match made in heaven and the production by Jeff Cannata just smokes this CD.
Secret Smile is recommended for AOR fans around the world. Before ending, check out the Fleetwood Mac cover “Go Your Own Way,” as the background vocals and chorus are fantastic.
1. Tears In The Sky
2. Runaway
3. When We Were Young
4. Feels Like Forever To Me
5. Talking To A Stranger
6. Sorry It Didn’t Work Out
7. Another Lonely Night
8. Here With You Tonight
9. You Said Goodbye
10. With All Of My Heart
11. Go Your Own Way
12. Movin’ On
T.J. Gabriele – vocals
Ken Barberio – guitar, keyboards
Scott Wilson – guitar
Todd Wilson – bass
Bob Ventresca – drums
Ted Poley – backing vocals
Jeff Cannata – producer
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