Despite the influx of new talents and musical trends, MARTIN NIEVERA still reigns supreme in the Philippine entertainment industry as the OPM Concert King. No doubt he remains the country’s premier balladeer as he infuses passion into each and every word he sings with conviction. The words ‘hardworking’ and ‘prolific’ also best describe the man who just celebrated his 23rd year in the music industry, and is now set to release his latest album “When Love is Gone” to prove that heartbreak has never sounded so good.

Martin’s comeback with a new concept relies with an array of break-up songs which is a follow-up to his hit album “ Best Wishes ” (compilation of best wedding songs) launched in 2004, “ When Love Is Gone ” boasts 17 tracks of love song after a love song which is exquisite and endearingly heartwarming. Ten of which are newly recorded tracks and another concept album made up of songs that make tears flow and hearts bleed.

The album’s first single is “Goodbye”—song about a lost love and Martin’s duet with Ms. Pops Fernandez who also is touted the Concert Queen. “Goodbye ” is a remake and was originally sung by Regine Velasquez but written by Martin Nievera and Louie Ocampo. The used-to-be couples will also be seen in a Goodbye’s music video which was directed by Louie Ignacio.

“Hanggang Langit”, which serves as the album opener (and adapted from the GMA Koreanovela “Stairway to Heaven”), “Nasaan Ka Man”, Alvina Sy’s “Minsan Lang”, “Naghihintay”, “Never Said Goodbye”, “Before You Say Goodbye”, and the title track “When Love is Gone” complete the few original compositions of Martin.

His version of James Ingram’s “There’s No Easy Way” created a whole new impact of the song because of Martin’s velvety voice. Another cover is “Let Me be the One ” of acoustic singer and writer Jimmy Bondoc. Martin turned this acoustic piano song into one of his masterpieces in a ballad-y and soulful version. A duet with Ima Castro, “I Don’t Want you to Go ” was originally sung by Lani Hall, again Martin created another sound behind this song because of Martin’s soothing voice that can’t get wrong with a love song. “Please Don’t Ask Me, ” another tearjerker song which was popularized by John Farnham was also chanted by Martin in a more dramatic pose.

Another phenomenal heart warming hit from an international R&B and soul singer Brian Mcknight, “Just Once ” also included in a remake. Martin and Brian’s duet with the song “Sorry Song ” also gives a heartwarming song of forgiveness.

Martin’s old friend and OPM’s Divine Diva shared a duet with him in the song “Separate Lives ” which Phil Collins and Marilyn Martin popularized in the 80s. Another remake of the “senti ” song originally sung by Barry Manilow is “Somewhere Down the Road ” is also included in the album. “Ikaw Lang Ang Mamahalin/Kahit Isang Saglit ” has always been a love song for every loved one, in every love story created because this song is simply romantic. Martin’s version of an old Vernie Varga original love song even became a theme for a local movie.

Being a successful singer/entertainer for 23 years is a quite achievement in this age and industry of fleeting favorites. However, this comes as no surprise for someone who is well-known and respected for possessing a work ethic and talent that is unquestionable.

Martin Nievera’s album is smooth as silk, and as deep as the ocean. The music penetrates your soul and leaves you feeling warm and calm on the inside. Martin shares to us the most sincere songs of the hardest thing to do in loving—saying goodbye.

Watch out for this “ When Love Is Gone ” now selling at your favorite record bars in cds and cassettes (also available in minus one) released by EMI Music Philippines, Inc. in cooperation with Smart Buddy Prepaid – Simply Amazing, Discovery Suites, Visine and Manila Bulletin.