CD review: Kate Bush - "50 Words For Snow"

Six years after Aerial, Kate Bush keeps following the ‘Scott Walker route’, seeking creative renewal instead of trading on past glories.

Essentially a concept album about snowfall and winter, 50 Words For Snow is – with the glorious exception of the title track – built around Bush’s delicate keyboard playing, enticing the listener with seductive melodies. Vocally, meanwhile, she shares top billing with guests including Elton John (whose Rocket Man she had previously covered to great acclaim), countertenor Stefan Roberts, the ubiquitous Stephen Fry and her son Bertie. The result is surprisingly warm, considering the subject matter.

(Fish People/EMI)

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