Don't take that the wrong way. Amos' music hasn't changed, per se. Her unorthodox lyrics, unique way of pronouncing words, familiar style of stroking the keys, and distinctive, haunting harmonies are still present. But gone are the striking emotional ballads, bold fierceness and shocking dynamic changes and that were once so present in her songs. That doesn't make it any less good or artistic, though. Tori is just in a different place now as a mother and wife instead of a fiery woman who had recently suffered horribly tragic events in her young life.

All of her albums have a kind of theme or concept to them, and The Beekeeper is no different. Loosely autobiographical, it is comprised of six different "gardens" which represent each of the kinds of relationships that a woman can have. It is also told from the perspective of a Christian woman--which Tori is not--something thathaving a preacher for a father may have helped her accomplish. That might also be responsible for the rock Gospel-ish sound resonating in the second track, "Sweet the Sting." But then again, it might be the organ she's playing, too.

Other highlights include a track featuring Irish singer/songwriter Damien Rice called "The Power of Orange Knickers,"the first single "Sleeps with Butterflies" and "Goodbye Pisces," reminiscent of "China" with its oriental feel. However, the real beauty of this collection shines after the disc has been spun a good three or four times and the songs become familiar. Only with repeated listens do subtle touches of genius come out. But they are only the shades of magnificence to be expected from Tori Amos.Let this one grow on you.--Kristen Kissenger in Boston, MA