A review of The Beekeeper appeared in the March 3, 2005 edition of the Home News Tribune, in the Teen Scene of this central New Jersey newspaper.

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Thanks to Rudy, the author, for sending this review to me. You can read it online at thnt.com or below:

"Beekeeper" full of strong lyrics and subject matter

By RUDY PALMA
BISHOP GEORGE AHR HIGH SCHOOL

With her newest creation, "The Beekeeper," the follow-up to 2002's epic "Scarlet's Walk," Tori Amos proves she is an ever-evolving musical force, never content to rest on her laurels or stick to a tried-and-true formula.

With the lengthy collection of 19 tracks, separated into six themed "gardens," the CD runs 80 minutes long and is full of both quality lyrics and intriguing subject matter. The red-haired pianist delves into the biblical history, ancient myths and the relationship between parent and child.

The disc begins with one of her sharpest opening tracks, "Parasol," a tale concerning deep shock of betrayal. "The Power of Orange Knickers," which features vocals by singer/songwriter Damien Rice, finds Amos articulating betrayal on a grander scale, likening each human soul to a terrorist in the sense that we obliterate our innermost truths:

"Can somebody tell me now/Who is this terrorist/Those girls that smile kindly/Then rip your life to pieces?/Can somebody tell me now/Who is this terrorist/This little pill in my hand/That keeps the pain laughing?"

Another strong track is "Sleeps With Butterflies," the set's lead single, which focuses on how people need to give and take to make a relationship work.

The lyrical highlight comes with the heart-rendering title track, where Amos confronts her fears of her mother's mortality and the fact that they will one day have to part, mentioning her brother who was killed in a car crash in November:

"Don't be afraid, I promise that she will awake/Tomorrow somewhere/Wrap yourself around the tree of life/And the dance of the infinity of the hive/Take this message to Michael."

"The Beekeeper" also finds Amos reflecting on her deep love and appreciation for her daughter in "Ribbons Undone"; delivering one of her most savory melodies yet with "Cars and Guitars" and commenting on the war effort with the endearing "General Joy."

"The Beekeeper" is also available in a limited edition package that includes another song and a bonus DVD, which provides more insight by Amos. Her newly released book, "Piece By Piece," co-written with music journalist Ann Powers, includes more details on Amos' creative process.

Rudy Palma, 17, is a junior.