Dig These Discs :: Tori Amos, Katy B, Tony Bennett, The Bangles, The Best Is Yet To Come: The Songs Of Cy Coleman

This spectrum of sounds sheds new and vivid light on various genres of music. The five CDs presented run the gamut from classical to electronic, a fusion of 1960s-inspired rock to the American songbook of popular song. So as we head into the fall season, why not give them a spin?

"Night of the Hunters" (Tori Amos)

"That is not my blood on the bedroom floor." That lyric begins an album with a high intensity infusion of classically inspired music created by Tori Amos. Her variations in theme, structure and emotion transpire and evolve throughout the 14 compositions presented on "Night of the Hunters." Amos has created this musical story for her debut recording on the prestigious Deutsche Grammophon label. As she weaves through the story, she is part Victorian maiden and part Madame Bovary. During certain songs, her daughter Natashya Hawley accompanies her. Amos has said, "I have used the structure of a classical song cycle to tell an ongoing, modern story. The protagonist is a woman who finds herself in the dying embers of a relationship." An appreciation for her art and a love of classical music is required. The darkness, remorse and tone are strictly for the serious-minded music lover. (Available now)

"Sweetheart of the Sun" (The Bangles)

There are flavors of "Sweet Charity," The Byrds and The Beatles throughout the new release, "Sweetheart of the Sun." The Bangles have snapped on to a sound in their own distinctive way while conveying an essence of pure 1960's-inspired grooves. Vocally, the power trio of Suzanna Hoff and Vicki and Debbi Peterson are a winning combination and the quality of their lyrics has evolved to a greater extent since the days of "Walk Like An Egyptian." There is an even mixture of the bitter and the sweet in the material while one song in particular ("Sweet and Tender Romance") finds the three pulling off a solid rock explosion of sounds. This song is definitely a "stand-out" track. It's been eight years since The Bangles hit the studio to record. There is once again a unified passion mixed with top-quality players presented on "Sweetheart of the Sun." (Available September 27)

"On a Mission" (Katy B)

Sassy, without being "cheeky," and real with a witty sense of the "unreality" of it all, Katy B has been dubbed the "Queen of Dubstep" on the musical scene. Just what is dubstep? It's a style of electronic dance music that places its musical roots in the south of London. On her aptly titled debut recording "On A Mission," Katy B has the hooks, lyrics and songwriting ability to stoke any musical fire of emotions and bluntly tells it like it is. Her vocals move effortlessly through this batch of music like a black cat with nine lives. Whether she's ratting out a cheating man on the song "Why You Always Here," or passionately telling a former love to "Go Away," this 22-year-year old U.K. singer works it out with her perceptive take on the "ins-and-outs" on the battleground of love's emotional pull. Modern, well produced with a vibrant touch of electronica, "On a Mission" lands Katy B in the forefront of new and exciting talent. (Available now)

"The Best is Yet to Come: The Songs of Cy Coleman (Various Artists)

Though some may disagree, Cy Coleman's songwriting epitomizes the "New Frontier" of the early to mid-1960s. He had the ability to get under the surface creating songs on love's foibles, regrets and passions with a unique style all his own. His songs are wise and fresh even now. On "The Best is Yet to Come: The Songs of Cy Coleman," his talent is reflected back with a head-turning line-up of female singers. And what a line-up it is! Patty Griffin, Madeleine Peyroux, Fiona Apple, Nikka Costa and several other notable vocalists add their own special delivery to the 13 songs presented from Cy's catalog of songs. Here the cast presented to showcase his material adds a new and thoughtful perspective to each song. The emotions of love from Cy Coleman's heart are priceless. (Available now)

"Duets II" (Tony Bennett and Friends)

Tony Bennett continues to amaze in "Duets II." In my book, he can do no wrong. For this second round of duets, he enlists a stellar cast of singers to share in his musical spotlight. At the wry age of 85-years-old, with his skilled craftsmanship he shines as a beacon of true talent. Artists such as Sheryl Crow, Faith Hill, John Mayer and other notables bask in his glow. Also included is an unforgettable and timeless addition - Amy Winehouse and the shadow of her unique gifts, tugs at the longing and love in the song "Body and Soul." Tony Bennett is the last of a high-pedigree. His appreciation for popular song and its message will always inspire new musical artists who have yet to travel that long, long road to an everlasting career. (Available now)