AERIAL

Aerial is Kate Bush's most mature, inventive and mysterious album. After 12 years the prospect of new material was exciting and I wasn't disappointed. And this happens to have the power to draw you in more with each listen. The melodies and accompaniment are stunning. The majority of the album is slow tempo, and very subtle. It's like being relaxed and stimulated at the same time. The first half of this double album is full of Bush quirk, all great songs, of which Mrs Bartolozzi stands out the most, a very clever, unique ode to her washing machine! Listen to the lyrics here about washing her lovers clothes while making some rather sensual and sexual references indeed. It really comes into its own on the second half, a gorgeous and flowing visual montage of landscapes and birdsong sunstes. More of a painting than a record! It's a concept album like the Hounds of Love second side the Ninth Wave, and as great as that was this is even better. "An Architect's Dream" and "The Painter's Link" features the wonderful artist Rolf Harris who briefly lends his vocals. Overall favourites here include "Sunset" and the dreamy "Somewhere In Between". Brilliant production and percussion on the album throughout! I can't recommend this enough. Bush's inspiring musical and poetic songwriting genius really shines through here!