AERIAL

Singer and composer Kate Bush launches her comeback from 12 years of absence as powerful as when she started her career by fiercely conquering music lovers in 1978. This double-disc album will best meet the expectation of high-and-mighty standards of her fans.

Like she had done with her earlier albums, Bush, now 47 years old, infuses so many obsessions and lushly romantic paeans to things mundane and cosmic. She also weaves eloquence around her materials. Her voice is still strong to magically convey emotions in each song, which reminds us of her past hits like "Wuthering Heights" and "The Man With a Child in His Eyes".

The first disc, "A Sea of Honey", is a good appetizer choice for those who usually fit instantly with easy listening music, though it contains a set of songs that mostly are a deep look into domesticity -- with the exception of the opening, "King of the Mountain". These songs are well-crafted and beautifully arranged into varied forms, from full-on rock band to solo piano.

As for the second disc, labeled "A Sky of Honey", it's definitely a guarantee for those who prefer conceptual set of songs. Stretch over 42 minutes playing time, the selected songs Bush puts in it meditate the passing of 24 hours. There's drama of everyday life, things that almost always interesting, sometimes even startling, except that meditation means it takes more time and special situation in order to enjoy the songs as well as to get into the message. There's no way both destinations could be reached by listening to the disc while you're driving.

While there's no pushing of the envelope, this album has its plus side than its predecessors: it creates an ordinary world that seems remarkable as long as you enjoy it with all your heart.