Tori Amos Sony/BMG / 2005
Tori Amos’ latest release, The Beekeeper, comes on the heels of Scarlet’s Walk, one of her most critically acclaimed works to date. Beekeeper differs from the album in many ways, not the least of which is its scattered subject matter. Where Scarlet’s songs detailed a drive through the United States (which was mapped out on the liner notes), Beekeeper abandons such inclusive themes, and the result is an album that is not as initially gratifying as previous efforts, but an Amos gem nonetheless.
Beekeeper is at its best when Amos is writing with structure – “Sleeps With Butterflies,” “Ireland,” and “The Beekeeper” all exhibit the quiet grace that is Amos’ trademark, and the format of the songs allows for Amos to express herself without deviating from the subject at hand. The album’s minor flaws are evident in tracks such as “Original Sinsuality” and “The Power of Orange Knickers,” where the lyrics and music tend to amble along without much direction.
This is not to say that Beekeeper is essentially a flawed album – it is actually far from it. Amos’ vocals continue to showcase her effortless range, and her piano playing is as fluid and transporting as ever. Beekeeper, like Amos’ entire catalogue, is immensely listenable and ultimately enjoyable, simply because of the journey it takes you on.
-- Jessica Netishen, 2/24/05 |
