TORI SPARKS
Rivers + Roads (Platinum Plus Records)
Reviewed by Ron Saranich

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A seasoned, eloquent vocalist at only twenty-one years of age, Tori Sparks has produced a mature CD full of heartfelt warmth and insight. A professional musician since she was seventeen, Sparks has spent considerable time on the road, constantly touring while seeking to learn her craft. Nothing ventured, nothing gained and Tori has gained considerable seasoning. So when she sings of disappoint and heartache, she sounds believable. For a vocalist, that is difficult; for someone of her age, that's remarkable.

On Rivers + Roads, Sparks has written all the songs plus plays acoustic guitar. Favorite numbers include her two ballads "Looking For Wisdom" and "Shame," both concise and taut mixtures of lyrics with music that are thoughtful and evocative without being pretentious. Adult themes maturely presented make for a wonderful listening experience. The band Sparks has assembled more than hold its own, fleshing out the songs' moods and adding complexity and depth.

Tori Sparks gives each song on Rivers + Roads her own personal touch. As far as debut CDs go, this is a good one. Check it out. Discover Sparks' powerful voice now, and join me as we watch her nascent career mature and grow.

© 2005 - Ron Saranich