Ocean to Ocean

The album we need after these pandemic years — comforting, yet a call to action.

"Ocean to Ocean" is the album we all need after the arrival of COVID-19. It emerged from Amos's own grief — not just over the death of her loved ones but also over the state of the world. In exploring her own grief, she provides a comforting album for listeners. As she sings on the gorgeous piano- and string-laden opener "Addition of Light Divided": "Let the light break through / you don't need to stay broken." The album finds her seeking comfort among the knowledge of trees ("Speaking with Trees")...stringing together the most hilariously random series of images ("Spies")...ranting at the corporate leaders who "don't give a goddamn / that we're nearing mass extinction" ("Ocean to Ocean")... exploring the lasting effects of trauma on relationships and still seeking out healing ("29 Years"). 

Musically, it fits within the realm of soft alternative rock and orchestral pop. As always, Tori's piano prowess features heavily. "Ocean to Ocean" also stands out over Amos's recent albums due to the return of her former 1990s collaborators, bassist Jon Evans and drummer Matt Chamberlain — a dynamic collaboration. There is an array of styles presented, with some beautiful ballads ("Addition of Light Divided," "Swim to New York State," "Flowers Burn to Gold") as well as some upbeat, funky tunes ("Speaking with Trees," "Spies," "Metal Water Wood," "29 Years"). 

All in all, it's a beautiful and fun album that has a comforting quality in trying times (especially while listening outdoors).