50 WORDS FOR SNOW

Unquestionably Kate Bush continues to evolve into beautiful and unpredictable directions. Yes, there is a semblance of the Aerial theme of Kate's ubiquitous piano laden tracks throughout 50 Words For Snow. But I probably stand alone here, this is a conceptual work again, like it's predecessor and Kate Bush as usual comes up trumps in artistic hierarchy.

The albums main characteristic is restrained repetitiveness, which always works wonders. The opening " Snowflake" with her son Bertie handling the lead vocals is a 10 minute classic preamble much like " prologue" off Aerial. " Misty" is a wonderful sidestep version to a novel and Kate's dream of seducing a melting snowman only to wake up to a wet bed! For those familair with her works will fondly remember the washing machine song. Her real life partner and guitarist Dan Macintosh is excellent as usual as is John Giblin on bass. One of the highlights on the album is Elton John's contribution to " Snowed In At Wheeler Street"...I never knew the guy could sing so deep. And of course Stephen Fry's narration for the " 50 Words For Snow" along with KB egging him on makes for delightful listening. " Wild Man" the single is very apt and definitely the most commercial but for this reviewer the sweet spot is the closer " Among Angels" which although different from the rest of the album, is without doubt the most cutting lyrically with KB's steady keyboard work. A stellar release form the magic woman of knowing the Lhakpa-La. It may grow to a masterpiece.