Why is everyone so quick to compare to Little Earthquakes?
05/05/1999
(4 out of 5 stars)
"This cd isn't Little Earthquakes.I don't know why so many fans keep expecting Tori Amos to come out with that album again every time she releases something new.It is brilliant,however,even if not from beginning to end,as her first cd was,it shines in different ways,and I think her maturity as a songwriter is more evident on this release than any other so far.When I listen to songs like "Jackie's Strength" and "Black Dove",I get more out of them each time-more depth and emotion.She's surprising powerful(and almost kind of predatory!)on "She's your cocaine" and haunting while still being catchy singing songs like "Spark".I will always love Little Earthquakes,but I love to see her grow and write music differently.She's never stopped changing-except that she's still consistently brilliant!"
A superb album with an extra little goody.
Matt. | New Jersey | 01/16/2005
(4 out of 5 stars)
"My favorite Tori Amos album to date finds Tori experimenting for the first time with a band. On all her previous efforts, Amos recorded herself and the piano or harpsicord first, and add other musicians' instrumentations later. The album continues to show the songstress challenging herself and her listeners, penning intense songs largely centered around a miscarriage that she suffered; though not all of the songs touch on the subject. The album is completely unforgettable, and these songs will stay with you, even long after you turn the stereo off. Highlights include "Spark," "Raspberry Swirl," "Northern Lad," and "Playboy Mommy." This version also contains the bonus track "Purple People (Christmas in Space)," also available on the "Spark" singles. Though it's a good song in its own right, it doesn't fit with the flow of the album - at least not as the album closer. It does touch on the theme of miscarriage, but it seems just thrown on, as most import bonus tracks do. Nevertheless, it's a nice little added extra."
Tori's Best Yet Without Any Doubt
James Scurry | Melbourne, Victoria Australia | 06/01/1999
(5 out of 5 stars)
"I have only recently become a Tori Amos fan, but in my short time I have already bought all her albums and every single I can find (approx 25). She is without a doubt the most amazing artist I have EVER come across. 'From the Choirgirl Hotel' is a musical masterpiece and I am shocked to have read reviews on this site that claim otherwise. Comparing this album to 'Little Earthquakes' is naive; they were recorded 6 years apart and therefore completely different. I'd compare Tori Amos with Madonna, they both never fail to create new layers to their music. Consequently critisism is inevitable from sceptics who want them to stay the same. Diversity adds dimension to this world, and Tori's originality as an artist is unsurpassed. Every track on this album is nothing less than brilliant!!! Especially the bonus track 'Purple People (Christmas in Space)' which is one of the most beautiful and haunting songs I've ever heard. Let's face it Tori will never fail, because her music is not only from the very essence of herself, but from life in general. I've brought every Tori Amos song I can find, and whether I've liked them straight off, or whether they've grown on me ...I've always loved them in the end. My only advice- BUY EVERYTHING."
Track Listings (13) - Disc #1