TO VENUS AND BACK

1999 heralded another swift release from Tori Amos. Inspired from working out of her new studio in Cornwall UK, To Venus and Back consists of a double CD package. The first being new material - Venus Orbiting, and the second a live release aptly titled, Still Orbiting. Beginning with the new material, many would argue this is a return to her material similar to " Under The Pink from 1994, for this reviewer it is an even more refined sound than the superb " Songs For Pele" from 1996 yet almost gothic at times, reference the excellent " Datura" which is eight minutes of swirling, manic bliss. " Concertina" the single off the album, atypical of work in the more commercial arena of her output. A nice tune nevertheless. Other great tracks off Venus Orbiting are " Precious Things" and the beautiful " 1,000 Oceans"

Still Orbiting is a real bonus as it highlights Amos in a live setting where she really connects with her audience, sounding almost Cure like at times with great musicianship from her touring band providing layers of keyboards and guitars pushing outwards in a hyonotic frenzy. Another plus is Amos's ability to improvise on the originals setting unique moods to the songs. Check out " Sugar" and the famous " Little Earthquakes". To this reviewer this was Tori Amos in her prime. Not necessarily the best album but fantastic music all the same. Four stars.