Live Review: Tori Amos, Matt Malters

Coming off latest album Unrepentant Geraldines’ successful release, singer/songwriter Tori Amos’ latest Australian tour strives to honour her worldwide fan base.

Awarding her the prestigious and expansive Riverside Theatre, Perth welcomed the acclaimed musician warmly. As the crowd poured into the theatre, the anticipation steadily climbed. Her support act, Matt Walters, strolled onto the stage to immense applause. Launching straight into sleeper hits Talking in My Sleep, Hard Luck, Julianne and Build A Place, his mesmerising and earthy acoustic sound silenced the frenzied crowd. Entertaining the masses with his calming demeanour and wry sense of humour, Walters’ eclectic set established the event’s mood-altering vibe.

As the clock struck 9pm, the crowd’s enthusiasm reached breaking point. As the lights dimmed, Amos lovingly waltzed across the stage in a flowing red and black dress. Adjusting to her piano-and-keyboard set-up, the 51-year-old performer got straight down to business. Kicking off with a touching rendition of Parasol, her crystal-clear vocals stunned everyone. Solidifying her reputation, her touching harmonies cut to the core. Saluting her rabid fan base, Amos launched a mix of latest and greatest hits. Playing her piano and keyboard simultaneously, she shifted into a peculiar position. Projecting Doughnut Song and Carbon through a pristine American accent, her uncompromising melodies tugged the heartstrings. 

Switching between instruments and microphones, the sound occasionally dropped out. Despite the obstacles, Amos’ haunting stories and bursts of energy enthralled everyone. Thanks to her enigmatic stage presence, she created a visceral experience. Matching the engaging lighting set-up at every turn, her renditions of smash hits Liquid Diamonds, Silent All These Years, Siren and Sister Janet constructed an alluring window into her world.

Delving into Marianne, Snow Cherries From France, and Oysters, her set took her audience on a spiritually and emotionally resonant journey. Swaying longingly throughout, Amos dug into each track. Switching from soul to acoustic with I’m On Fire, her nuances seeped into lyrics, notes, and movements. Completing a major tempo turnaround, Sleeps With Butterflies, Taxi Ride, and Little Earthquakes received thunderous applause. Guided by silky and eclectic keyboard riffs, Amos’ journey ended with spirited renditions of Apollo’s Frock and Precious Things. Receiving a standing ovation, she came back to give her crowd a little more. she took requests from the adoring audience. Delving into jaunty renditions of Cornflake Girl, 16 Shades Of Blue and Sugar, Amos solidified her immense status. As the crowd dissipated, her aura faded into the chilly night’s sky.