The most instantly engaging, least cryptic (though still sometimes inscrutable) Tori Amos record since LITTLE EARTHQUAKES, SCARLET'S WALK is a welcome return to form. Ostensibly a grand concept album based on an American travelogue, the disc is, at its core, simply a collection of detailed relationship songs in the vein of early Joni Mitchell. The instrumentation is sparer than on Amos's last several efforts, effectively showcasing her supple piano work and uncharacteristically unmannered vocal performances. Many tracks feature nothing but bass, drums, piano and atmospheric guitar (courtesy of ex-Pretender Robbie McIntosh and avant garde jazzer David Torn) and this instrumentation gives the record an appropriately open, organic feel.

Though there are, as usual, many moments of confrontational, biting humor here, SCARLET'S WALK reveals a somewhat kinder, gentler Tori Amos. Even "I Can't See New York," which appears to have been inspired by the September 11th attacks, seems more empathetic than angry, and is filled with wistful introspection. Though it lacks anything resembling a hit single, SCARLET'S WALK is a mature and fully realized work, easily ranking among Tori Amos's very best albums.

Track Listing:

1. Amber Waves
2. Sorta Fairytale, A
3. Wednesday
4. Strange
5. Carbon
6. Crazy
7. Wampum Prayer
8. Don't Make Me Come To Vegas
9. Sweet Sangria
10. Your Cloud
11. Pancake
12. I Can't See New York
13. Mrs. Jesus
14. Taxi Ride
15. Another Girl's Paradise
16. Scarlet's Walk
17. Virginia
18. Gold Dust

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