Tori Amos, 'Abnormally Attracted to Sin'

Release date: May 19, 2009
Record label: Universal Republic
Official Web site: http://www.toriamos.com/

The buzz: Tori Amos and her trusty Bösendorfer return for their tenth studio album—and remind everyone that her trailblazing impact on younger, hipster-approved piano ladies like Bat for Lashes and Regina Spektor should not be underestimated.

The verdict: “Abnormally Attracted to Sin” is another winner for an artist who’s been remarkably consistent given her adventurous streak and soft spot for concept albums. Typically ambitious, she covers musical styles from cabaret to trip-hop while delving fearlessly into high-stakes lyrical drama. Like much of Amos' catalog, “Sin” often sounds pretty, but it’s hardly light listening; song topics include suicide, self-mutilation, the struggle between sensuality and spirituality, and the impact of global economic disaster on our sense of self. There are a few misfires and formless stretches, but those who argue that Amos needs an outside editor (a typical criticism) are sort of missing the point—hers isn’t the sort of artistic vision that would be conducive to checks and balances. High marks include the tender character study “Maybe California” and the fantastic opener “Give,” a darkly atmospheric piece that’s part beauty and part predator.

Did you know? A bonus DVD includes artful short films for each track on the album.

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