->       I've got to admit the system sounded *damn* good today
-> listening to Tori Amos's last two CDs....  If you can get past some
-> bizarre/strange/different lyrics, those are two of the highest quality
-> pop/rock CDs I've encountered, foriegn or domestic.  Her voice
-> couldn't sound more perfect.  There's serious bass, more minimalist
-> arrangements than not, and she can play the piano (and harpsichord) like 
o
-> one's business.  I'll be adding them to my Sound Quality List
She just did a show at Ann Arbor's Hill auditorium (acoustically nice modest
sized UofM venue) about 2 weeks back, which I attended. Great performer, 
wicked
pianist, minimalist setup. She uses Boesndorfer (sp) pianos exclusivly which
(among other attributes) are prized for their bottom octave. She also uses a
full size harpsichord and a pedal/pump organ (NO synths). The only other
musician used was a guitarist on some songs, and this guy was very unusual in
that he made "sounds/aural fill" vs. "playing"; sort of a cross between Fripp
and Dick Dale! The mix/sound was sublime, and the lighting was a nice mix of
background computer/tape and a rig of varilites which were tastefully
underdone.
According to the hardcore fan who took me to this event (Tnx Melissa!) she 
ut
on a very good show that night, but was -not- at her very best.
A solid 2+ hrs of skillful performance well worth the $23.50 that I -didn't-
have to pay .
A recommended performer/concert to anyone who enjoys her style.
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