Night of Hunters (Deluxe Version)

iTunes Review

Commissioned to create a “21st-century song cycle inspired by select classical pieces spanning the last 400 years,” Tori Amos, true to her muse, turns it into a classically influenced Tori Amos album. She works variations on Bach, Debussy, Mendelssohn, Satie, Schubert, Schumann and others. At her beloved Bosendorfer piano with orchestration arranged by John Philip Shenale, Amos creates a concept album that’s difficult to explain quickly. The dramatic piano flourishes from “Battle of Trees” create a genuine tension over its eight minutes. “Fearlessness,” based on Enrique Granados’ 12 Spanish Dancers, is a melodic feast. “Edge of the Moon” is a solemn poem. Her 11-year-old daughter is in strong voice and together they make tracks such as “Cactus Practice,” “Job’s Coffin” and “The Chase” special moments for mother and child. It’s a one- of-a-kind piece that should please hardcore Amos fans who have no less interest in whether or not there are any radio hits. The Deluxe Edition includes videos for “Carry” and “Nautical Twilight” that visually evoke the music’s heart and display Amos at work.