In 2001, male Philippine vocal group Formula released
Genuflect, its first album for Star records after recording one album for BMG Records Philippines. The group contains five vocalists, none of whom play instruments. The album is dominated by passionate, easy listening love songs, a style of music quite popular in the Philippines, but doesn't have much of an audience outside the country. The album contains 16 songs, many of which sound as though made from the same slow, easy listening mold. The variation between the songs is subtle, and the songs tend to bleed into one another. There are four spirited songs, such as the remake of the American tune "Give It Up," but the songs get buried amidst the other 12 slow songs. It can be difficult for a listener to stay awake while listening to this album. Formula's singing is distinguished by strong lead singing and imaginative backing vocals. Some songs are reminiscent of American 1950s doo wop, as heard on "Maunawaan N'Yo Sana Ako" (I Hope You Understand Me), which contains swooping backing vocals. "No More" is performed entirely a cappella in a style similar to doo wop. The group's singing is always passionate and intense, and the voices blend well. Another upbeat song is a remake of "You to Me Are Everything." One of the better slow songs is "All at Once," but is easy to overlook amidst the many slow songs. At 16 songs, many of which sound alike, this album is too long. ~ David Gonzales