nids's Full Review: From the Choirgirl Hotel by Tori Amos
The truth about Tori is that she writes beautifully when something tragic has happened to her. Following her miscarriage, and coupled with her wedding, this album is a combination of somber and hip swinging tunes.
I'm not going to proclaim how big of a fan I am, but my opinion is not biased just because I like her. It's valid, but I will admit that Tori isn't for everyone.
This album especially has a low down and dark tone to it that grew from her third release (Boys for Pele) and is in full bloom with almost each song on this album. This is definitly a deviation from the normal "girl and her piano" Tori Amos album, and it takes some time to listen and fully enjoy the evolution that Tori's gone through. When I first got this album I refused to listen to it after one run-through. Tori's changes have been gradual, and if you listen to Little Earthquakes and then jump to Boys For Pele I'm sure you could see it coming. For me, I felt as though it was a leap, but the more I listened to it, the more I realized that the album still is Tori, but more electronic, and she's growing. Truthfully, I wouldn't want to listen to four albums that are all like Little Earthquakes.
My favorites are Iiee, Black Dove, Hotel, and Cruel. There are some good qualities in Raspberry Swirl, but I like the techno single version much better, it's got more punch.
I cannot stand Pandora's Aquarium, there is something about the way Tori sometimes lets her voice stretch out that makes me cringe. I don't really like Liquid Diamonds all that much either, but just because I skip a few sons on the CD doesn't mean a thing, it really is a good album.
The thing about Tori albums is that you can have your favorites, and still press play and listen to the whole darn thing in one sitting. The reason is that Tori magic, and it inspires you and definitely sets a mood.
I love to put this particular album on when I'm drawing with pen and ink, and when I plan on dressing up gothic style.
Although, I will warn you that this is not the best album to start with if you're just getting into Tori. Start with Little Earthquakes or Under The Pink then work your way up. ;) If I was to compare this album to another artist I would say it sounds like Tori and Bjork.
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