American Doll Posse

Tori Amos is never short of ideas. <i>American Doll Posse</i> centers around the concept that Amos inhabits the mindset of five distinct “dolls” named Santa, Clyde, Isabel, Tori and Pip. Each represents a different part of the female psyche and perceives her environment in slightly different terms. According to Amos’ notes, for example, Santa is sexual, while Isabel is neutral. Following these concepts is made far more difficult by Amos’ obscure symbolism, her bizarre enunciation and the layer of thick production that coats each song in orchestrations and various recording studio tricks. This adventurous modern-day progressive rock makes for involved listening. Amos can deliver the moody piano ballad (“Girl Disappearing,” “Father’s Son”) or the indelible pop song (“Bouncing Off Clouds,” “Secret Spell”) with ease. But it’s the way she paces these efforts that makes the drama so effective. “Fat Slut” lasts less than a minute, but it’s harsh denunciations color the mood of the surrounding tracks. “Programmable Soda” tinkles with a lightness of being that’s immediately shut down by the chords of doom that open “Code Red.” Amos’ constantly shifting tones suggest her only fear is being cornered and becoming predictable. No worries here.