AERIAL

"Aerial" is a tremendous album from Kate Bush who joined in a collaborative effort with the likes of Rolf Harris who is terrific on didgeridoo. Harris knows how to get just the right sound of the outback as he is an expert at capturing atmospherics such as on his famous Aboriginal paean 'Sunarise'. This album in fact is Bush's most atmospheric, encapsulating a very strong environment. Bush delves into some dark territory on this with haunting songs about loss, separation and returning to the painful past.

The package is stunning with beautiful haunting artwork, and over 2 CDs worth of studio material that tells a compelling story. Some unforgettable moments are captured as Kate sings about the washing line and the clothes waving as if they are alive, reminiscing on her long lost husband; how she hung his clothes out that seem to have manifested his spirit. Bush really captivates vocally on this stunning concept album; it is one of her finest works.

The bird song that is heard in places lends an unmitigated chilling vibe, along with other effects used to create an ambient tangible atmosphere. Kate's vocal performance, powering out poignant lyrics, are among the best thing she has done in a long and somewhat jaded career.

CD 2 is the 45 minute epic 'An Endless Sky of Honey' beginning with gorgeous piano, a child speaking and bird whistles. The epic blends a number of songs into one multimovement suite. The crystalline quality of Bush is mesmirising, as she moves to low husky tones and the trademark soprano high register. One can just get lost in this lovely piece, as it transfixes with exceptional emotional musicianship and a melancholy mood.

There are no other highlights to mention, as it's all great quality and works as a long enchanting masterwork. I could almost give this 5 stars but it is not quite to that level. Nevertheless "Aerial" is an incredible piece of music and songs that are among Kate's best since her powerhouse opus's "The Dreaming" and "Hounds Of Love".