This came out in 1999 – or at least that’s when I got it. Here’s what I said about it back then (with some minor editing):
“Father, I killed my monkey,” breathes the ever-quirky Tori Amos at the opening of the two-CD set To Venus And Back — just to let you know she hasn’t lost her um, unique lyrical touch.
As for the music and vocals, well, that’s another monkey’s tale. Instead of the usual musical therapy session, Venus captures Tori in a relaxed, meditative state, gently vocalizing over a series of electronica soundscapes with subliminal, trip-hoppy progressions. For those who prefer the more traditional, higher-strung Amos, don’t fret. The second disc — a live collection recorded with her band last year — finds her in familiarly flamboyant turf, making love to her piano on favourites like Little Earthquakes, Waitress and Precious Things. That oughta shock your monkey.
