July 15, 2023 – Orpheum Theater – Omaha, NE

It was a magical evening on July 15, 2023 in Omaha, when the incomparable Tori Amos took the stage at the Orpheum Theater, bewitching the audience with her ethereal voice, masterful piano skills, and heartfelt storytelling. Amos delivered a concert experience that was as intimate as it was mesmerizing.

The night began with an absolutely amazing set from Tow’rs, a husband and wife duo from Flagstaff, Arizona.  The duo has over 240 thousand monthly listeners on Spotify, and it’s easy to see why.  They’re melodic magic left the audience in awe.  I hadn’t heard of them before this performance, but when I returned home from the show, I quickly added them to my Spotify playlist.  Their latest single, “Baker’s Dozen”, draws on the themes of embracing mystery and finding fulfillment in being present with the ones you love.  Kyle and Gretta looked and sounded absolutely amazing, and during some parts of their performance, their harmonies reminded me of Of Monsters and Men.  This was a fantastic way to open the show.

After a brief intermission, it was time for the headliner!

From the moment she walked on stage, Tori Amos exuded a captivating presence that held the audience in rapt attention. Adorned in a flowing orange silky dress, and accompanied by her grand piano, she began her performance with a delicate melody that instantly transported the audience to a world of emotion and introspection. Her voice, both powerful and delicate, effortlessly soared through the theater, casting a spell on everyone in attendance.

Amos crafted a setlist that spanned her illustrious career, offering a beautiful balance of fan favorites and lesser-known gems. Each song was a tapestry of emotions, woven with poetic lyrics that spoke directly to the heart. The audience hung onto every word, their souls seemingly intertwining with Amos’ haunting melodies.

Amos’ piano skills were nothing short of extraordinary. Her fingers danced across the keys, effortlessly transitioning between delicate melodies and thunderous chords. The passion and precision with which she played were a testament to her exceptional talent as a musician, captivating the audience with every note. At certain points, she even played the electronic keyboard and the piano at the same time!

The lighting and stage design complemented the ethereal nature of Amos’ performance. Soft, warm hues bathed the stage, creating an intimate ambiance that perfectly matched the intimacy of her music. The interplay of light and shadow added depth to the performance, enhancing the emotional impact of each song.

The concert reached its emotional climax when Amos performed some of her most beloved and iconic songs. The audience erupted in cheers and applause as she played fan favorites like “Caught a Lite Sneeze”, and “A Sorta Fairytale.” These timeless classics were met with both nostalgia and a sense of rediscovery, reminding everyone of the enduring power of Amos’ music.

The encore was a breathtaking finale that left the audience in awe. Amos returned to the stage for a captivating solo performance, her voice and piano intertwining in a hauntingly beautiful rendition “Cornflake Girl.” 

I’m so glad I got to see Tori Amos live.  Her concert was a transcendent experience, showcasing her unmatched talent, poetic lyricism, and undeniable connection with her audience. With her enchanting voice, masterful piano skills, and ability to create an intimate atmosphere, she transported the crowd to a realm of emotion and introspection. This concert was a testament to Amos’ artistry, reminding us why she remains a beloved icon in the music industry. It was an evening that will forever be cherished by those fortunate enough to be in attendance.

Tori Amos Setlist:

• A Sorta Fairytale
• Ocean to Ocean
• Amber Waves
• Honey
• Taxi Ride
• Lust
• Here. In My Head
• Purple People
• The Wrong Band
• Caught a Lite Sneeze
• Spring Haze
• Big Wheel

Encore:

• Cornflake Girl
• Take to the Sky