'Scarlet's Walk' an easy journey

Scarlet's Walk is a simple, pleasant stroll on a paved path through smooth rolling hills. Amos' journey lacks the distinct changes in landscape that have defined her creative signature, which she established in 1992 with Little Earthquakes. That album's sectional compositions are characterized by abrupt shifts in sound and mood. Generally, Amos maintained creativity in her following albums, though the first disc of 1999's To Venus And Back ends with the radio-friendly ballad "1,000 Oceans."\nIn retrospect, "1,000 Oceans" foreshadowed the eroded Scarlet's Walk. "Amber Waves," "A Sorta Fairytale" and "Taxi Ride" feel packaged for radio. Especially on the latter two tracks and title track, the clean electric guitar sounds contrived. It should have been omitted from the album because, at best, it adds nothing to the songs.\nThe fact that Scarlet's Walk is a concept album also contributes nothing because Amos' concept is weak and vague. According to a promotional CD, the album is about "a girl called Scarlet who may be the land and may be a person and may be a trail of blood."\nIn the release, a U.S. map with trails, mock snapshots of Amos, and a few names of U.S. destinations in song titles hint that Scarlet's Walk is a concept album. But Amos' messages are similar to her previous albums. "Amber Waves" is about a woman who can only recognize her self-worth in "every young man's bedroom." Religion and lovers' issues are also strong themes. The most notable new themes are Amos' references to Native Americans and Sept. 11. \nMy initial disappointment that Scarlet's Walk shows no creative evolution has lessened with repeated listening. Though these compositions are simpler, some are quite beautiful. The simplicity of "Your Cloud" makes it more affective because it brings out Amos' lovely vocals. "Gold Dust" has a naturally moving melody. \nAmos' previous work is so emotionally affective that I must be in a certain mood to play it. The subdued Scarlet's Walk will allow her fans to just relax and soak up her style.