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“Tori Sparks knows her craft so well that she is able to easily maintain our focus during the nearly two hours of her live show… the presence of her deep voice and serious lyrical drama accentuated and emphasized by just the right musical arrangement. She showed a sense of spectacle typical of some North American artists who care not only the songs, but about how to fill the space between them… Her strong personality could be the trick that will guarantee her prominent place in the music scene.”” “Tori Sparks is an American born and bred singer/songwriter who left the musical comforts of Nashville and headed to Barcelona. That is a gutsy move and can only help broaden her already extensive musical palette. Sparks has a soulful style and a wide, wide range. The worldly influences are clearly evident... This is a major work here and is as deserving of a broad based audience as much as anything I have heard in the last few months… I don’t think it took me even a full listen for me to judge this as one of the better albums of the year.”
“Tori Sparks is an American artist who has recently traded Nashville for Barcelona, but she spends most of her days traveling all over the world. Her live shows awaken a huge range of emotions in the audience, from the most joyful, spontaneous laughter to the deepest sense of sadness.”
“Before listening I thought that a double CD [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] was going to be a lot to take in, but in fact the total playing time is only 50 mins, and splits the material nicely into manageable sizes, emphasizing the Saturday night/Sunday morning feel. I really like the voice, production and mix - top notch. …Excellent stuff, indeed!”
“[Tori Sparks] is not new on the music scene, but the release of her fourth disc [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] could mean a rebirth... and the definitive take-off for her. Her concept is very original.”
“Usually, the term "singer/songwriter" suggests that the artist is a songwriter who sings, sometimes in only a barely adequate, get-me-over voice, in order to showcase her songs. But then there are artists like Van Morrison and Laura Nyro who are sufficient vocal stylists to be considered singers who happen to write their own songs. Sparks... sings in a throaty alto, adding all sorts of expressive coloring to her romantic, poetic lyrics, thus giving them an added emotionalism.” “It is wonderful to discover music that you excited, that touches the soul, as does this new release of Tori Sparks, ‘Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark.’ …Tori prints her soul into each groove of the record. She moves between genres, but her music is inspired… You should not miss the opportunity to listen to Tori, because when music contains true beauty, it crosses cultures and borders.”
“[Tori Sparks’ Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] is a flawless collection by a name that deserves to be far better known, and an artist whose back catalogue I'll now be tracking down.”
“Her voice is [Tori’s] most powerful weapon, steeped in soul but capable of performing rock and of course folk music…” “This woman has been compared to many people, although in most cases they are incomplete comparisons, because if there is anything particularly remarkable in her work, it is its originality. [Tori] melds genres and content so as to wrap every song in the musical clothing consistent with its story.” “Tori Sparks is a headstrong and independent songwriter who goes her own way, her singing incredibly expressive and energetic. But what really grabs you is the lyrics… Tori is not just some sad singer-songwriter… she is a girl with an attitude and the inner strength, who dares to stand strong in the middle of the storm. In Tori Sparks I find a musician who has that spark that so many lack.”
“Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark demonstrate contrasting sides of Tori Sparks’ talent, but the two discs are bound together by one shared quality – passion. 4 of 4 stars.”
“Until Morning is dark and sensuous… expertly written and sung by Tori. Come Out of the Dark is absolutely joyous, uplifting vocals and tender ballads… Tori Sparks has been compared to Bonnie Raitt, but Bonnie is not in the same league as this lady when it comes to passionate lyrical songwriting, but mind you she is a damn good slide player.”
“[Tori Sparks] is more than special... a unique mix of folk and 'country' with touches of rock.”
“Tori Sparks never leaves you feeling indifferent... her strong personality comes through in all of her work. She is well worth discovering.”
“The production and vocal talent is clothed in freshness… Tori sings, composes, plays acoustic guitar and travels surrounded by songs recorded with a delicacy and attention to detail that enriches the listening experience… I listened to [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] five or six times! I am a fan of Tori Sparks. 8 of 10 stars.” “One quickly learns to recognize Tori… The production [of Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] gives the songs the weight they were meant to have, and the textual meaning is reinforced by the distinctly talented instrumentalists playing behind her. It is an album that captures it’s audience immediately. When I played it at home with people visiting, the questions came spontaneously: Who is this? Who is the singer? What's her name?” “Sparks’ double album, released in the era of the neosingle priced at ninety-nine cents… The young and prolific activist from Chicago… has knocked on the doors of voices who still believe in real roots rock, such as Shawn Mullins and Mike Farris… in order to give us a record that harkens back to Petty, a bit of Crowes, with vocal forays into the stylistic territories of Stipe and Benetar.” - Jordi Torrents, Ruta 66 (Spain)
“In [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark], Tori Sparks announces herself as a true performer with a presence, a firm grip on herself, and with something to say… Though her commercial potential is obvious, she also delves into realms more intimate and folky.” - Redacteur, La Cri du Coyote (France)
“Essentially Sparks is a very good songwriter with a powerful voice and a cooking band… from her new disc Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark, Judge a Book is a real humdinger. Classic pedal steel and twang guitar rumble and wail throughout this turbo charged monster that has a wonderful cinematic feel about it. The first disc opens with Rain (The Widow), a pile-driving howl with a magnificent percussive drive and some wild guitar squalls while Mama has an almost Hispanic beat to it. The Hispanic influence reappears on the one cover here. Quizas Quizas Quizas is a 1940’s Cuban song and Sparks delivers it with a fine sense of sensuality and menace.” “Only 27 years young, Tori has 4 critically acclaimed albums on her own label, Glass Mountain Records. With over 200 concerts a year, Tori is one of the most hard working women in the music business. This fourth release [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] is a collaboration with multi-instrumentalist and top producer David Henry…Tori Sparks is a great singer-songwriter who works with many great artists. This album is top in its genre!”
“A great vocalist with a strong and distinctive style... evocative lyrics and catchy tunes... [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] is a very thoughtful album with lyrics straight from the heart.”
“Tori Sparks, who has transplanted herself from Nashville to Barcelona... blends all styles of music, from rock to country to jazz, resulting in an aggressive yet sensual sound.”
“[On Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] Tori Sparks’ compositions and arrangements are again excellent, and just like the last album [The Scorpion in the Story], her vocal style is intense and expressive.” “There's something about Tori Sparks I like. If it's because she creates really good songs, or if it is that they also are incorporated into a complete sound, I do not know… The whole album [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] is like a sketch, a sample or map of all that is good within the realm of melancholy. The songs revel in solitude and in relationships, and in enjoying a minor mood.” “Her third album, released in 2009, "The Scorpion In The Story," garnered a lot of applause in European roots music circles, and so it was for Tori Sparks especially important to come up with an equally solid successor. In this case, the iron forge has now suddenly turned very hot. ….For example, with one of the title tracks [to Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark], Sparks confirms our response to "The Scorpion In The Story" with regards to her proclaimed abilities. It is possible that this new album will be an even a breakthrough, on a larger scale. For Tori, we hope so!” “Her music is a fusion of blues, rock, folk, and jazz, even a little country... Tori Sparks is known internationally for her artistic commitment and for her independent spirit.” “[Tori Sparks’] latest release, Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark, finds an artist who has matured over the past four years… The lyrics are more incisive and the music has acquired greater sophistication… The one thing that hasn’t changed is her voice, which remains a formidable instrument and the foundation of her appeal… Tori Sparks… takes a giant step with Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark to produce a work that is both creative and inventive.” “As suggested by the title [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark], the fourteen songs are divided by the dichotomy between the night and the morning, light and shadow, and muscially between Rock and Folk. Guided by Tori's robust and versatile voice, and a praiseworthy narrative sense, the songs reflect the distinct emotional atlas of their composer.” “It has been a long, hot summer, but for singer/songwriter Tori Sparks the last year has been on fire. Last fall she lit up stages in eight European countries, playing 200 concerts worldwide. This summer she released her fourth critically acclaimed album, Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark, sold her home in Nashville to one of the Doobie Brothers, and made herself a new life in Spain. There she eats churros in Hemingway haunts and runs with the bulls, all with the British press panting in pursuit. We’ll be seeing much more of this young lady.” "I had to listen to [Tori Spark’s] twofer EP [Until Moring/Come Out of the Dark] three times in order to try to nail down why it was so intriguing… in riveting intensity, she has mastered the marrow-deep conviction and passion that made Janis such a phenomenon. By a factor of 10, Sparks is a true full-spectrum artist… a movingly hypnotic instrument of thickly painted canvases, Catalonian and Greco-esque in smoldering storminess and power. In truth, try as I might, I can't summon up a comparative except in the male domain: Tom Waits, Nick Cave, Randy Newman…although when this firebrand revs up in Over, Ana Popovic comes to mind in a searing white-hot conflagration.” "Singing in English, French and Spanish, Sparks… finely balances soul and hilarity. Her combined talent and entrepreneurial spirit has kept her busy… The first disc [on Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] reflects the dark and sensual dynamic of Sparks’ vocal and songwriting skills. Check out “Mama.” The second disc, is Americana meets folk—the first track, “My Delilah” reflects the polarity of the first disc. 5 of 5 Stars.”
“Folk, Country, and Americana are all within the talents of Tori Sparks, a prominent figure in the US music scene now living in Barcelona… the first half her new double-pack album [Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark] is dark and sophisticated bluesy rock… the second is more folk, traditional and emotional, and shows off her captivating voice. Two sides of a very valuable coin.” “Fiery, gutsy delivery." [5 stars] “Here’s a singer/songwriter with the strong, eloquent vocals of Bonnie Raitt and the guitar mastery of Joni Mitchell... a bounty of subtle rock and haunting blues." “The talented Tori Sparks... is a knock-out!" “Tori Sparks is an American artist who has recently exchanged Nashville (Tennessee) for Barcelona… Her live shows awaken a wide range of emotions in her public, from laughter, to deeper feelings of melancoly…. Tori is known for her spirit of independence as an artist."
“Tori Sparks is one of those independent singer-songwriters who’s so driven it seems like signing with a record label would only slow her down. Sparks sings with distinct intensity—Scorpion is bluesy folk-rock in a Tom Waits vein: rough-edged, worldly-wise and potent. “Sparks' talent for brewing great Americana songs is already clear from the first notes of opener "Tall Towers" ...and by the second track on the album, I was hooked. …The way Sparks tells a story through song, and even manages in a mere four minutes, to bring the listener from a smile to a tear and bring back, is phenomenal. Let nothing stop you from listening to Tori Sparks.” “Tori Sparks’ voice isn’t one of those passive instruments that treats a lyric like it’s a classified ad… Here is a supple, teasing voice that flutters and flies seemingly without effort from note to note, line to line, so that weepy sensitivity and pleading vulnerability cozy up with tough resilience and firm resolve so seamlessly you never even notice the mood swing.” “Sparks has earned herself a reputation of being a do-it-yourself musician. Her combination of raw musical talent and personable charm have earned Sparks the privilege to perform at venues all over the world. The truly remarkable thing about Tori’s success is just how much of it that she does on her own…. Sharing influence from Tom Waits and U2, to Patty Griffin and Jeff Buckley, [her] music is equally as unique.” “Tori has obviously lived the stories she weaves… and she not only sings, she can also play. The often shockingly good text of the songs are built on a musical “background” of many colors, including folk, rock, and blues elements. …Fortunately, Tori Sparks, is not in the camp of those artists enrich, whom they say, ‘if you’ve heard one, you’ve heard them all.’ The songs are diverse, and each contains a spark of the ‘unusual.’ They will convert anyone who listens to The Scorpion In The Story album.” “American Tori Sparks is well-known on the Americana scene. She is a singer-songwriter - but one of those who redeems her own material with courage, and above all a coherent vision. It is that - combined with an obvious songwriting talent and a flair for surrounding herself with solid musicians - that makes her music so interesting… The music emerges as forceful and significant… Characterized by a fascinating, raw vocals… and terrific riffs.” "In the time that I’ve known Tori Sparks, there’s been more than one occasion when I’ve wondered if she was an actual person or possibly an amalgamation of fact and fiction like a legendary folklore character. In other words, she’s epic. Sparks is a classic troubadour who melds verse and melody to create emotionally driven literary vignettes that engage, seduce and enrich with a preternatural prowess."
"Go see Tori Sparks. Everyone in the world needs to see, and hear, Tori Sparks." "The Scorpion in the Story is an Americana opera. I've listened to it at least a couple hundred times already." "Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen….I can see [Tori’s] name printed boldly amongst these illustrious phenomena…The Scorpion In The Story is definitely a keeper… Words fail me to describe why I enjoy it so much." "Tori Sparks is an awesome house concert performer. She has a magnificent, dynamic voice with a three octave range …Tori's personality on and off stage makes her a treat to be around, with a fine sense of humor and the sophistication not to take herself too seriously. She connects with the audience from the stage and works hard to get to know each person. …Tori's singing and playing burns with white-hot emotion and energy. …We'll have her back whenever we can." “The use of incredible backing musicians means nothing if there is not truth in the songwriting, but fortunately, this is not the case… with Tori Sparks. The Scorpion in the Story [is] a success… it is time that the world pays more attention to this woman.” “Tori Sparks is an American rock and blues singer from Nashville… she has already released [four] albums by her own record label and has toured internationally. In her performances she alternates between soulful and hilarious, making her presence and her voice very dynamic.”
“Folk-Pop with a hint of R’n’B… Tori [Sparks] has a gorgeous voice, it’s impossible to listen with indifference… especially to the ballads with their delicious accents.” “Each track [on The Scorpion in the Story] is like a little history or story… they are different but they are somehow connected. Musically, Tori [Sparks] succeeds in mixing different genres into a glorious and beautiful blend… Tori really manages to convey all the emotions that a human can feel.” “Sparks needs little in the way of effects or layering to get her music across… strong and fabulous…” “This is why I wanted to get into the music business: Tori Sparks gave a take-no-prisoners performance of the kind that I've only ever seens from Bruce Springsteen and Dave Olney. And her music is fantastic.” “Tori Sparks, in just a few months living in Barcelona (the Raval) has seduced us with her voice on numerous occasions in live concerts… Her hard work has recently brought to light another self-produced album, Until Morning/Come Out of the Dark, which maintains her stamp of superior quality …Her musical vision, earthiness, and ability to give meaning to the everyday world around us guarantees that her reputation will only continue to grow.”
“[Tori Sparks’] gentle ballads shine… but no less fascinating are the ramblings in the southern sounds of Tall Towers and Days and Days And Nights. In short, The Scorpion in the Story is a great album that will excite those who let the songs in.” “Intimate songs, smoothly as well as intensely sung, gorgeous semi-acoustic foundations framed with exceptionally good arrangements… A succession of pure gems. …[Sparks’] The Scorpion In The Story is simply a sparkling jewel in the singer-songwriter genre, and in any event, not be missed by fans.” "Tori Sparks is one of the hardest working songwriter/performers in the business. She is a relentless powerhouse with an ever-growing and highly devoted fan base. She brings a raw yet elegant presence to the stage as she satisfies her captives with delicately fine tuned lyrics coupled with edgy (the cool kind) melodies. No sit on a stool and play kind of stuff here, this girl's an artist who happens to be an exceptional songwriter." "Root and branch music as opposed to regular Americana, [The Scorpion in the Story] is quite a broad canvas. Ms Sparks has one of those pristine voices that’s a little bit country and an equal part pop, similar to Eddie Reader before she turned into a folkie diva, and without the affectation… What’s not to dig?" "[Tori Sparks’] soulful vocals roam atop the haunting, earthy twang of banjos and accordions… Music so vivid that I could not only see colors as I listened, but it left a dusty taste in my mouth as well. This woman can tell a gripping story… with the precise timing and delivery of a stand-up comic!" “A sensuous blend of folk, blues and rock. … Sparks proves herself a soulful songwriter and vocalist who at once manages both strength and vulnerability. An assured, auspicious disc that should bring [Sparks] deserved national attention.” [4 stars] “Tori Sparks was born in America, but now lives in Barcelona, and is an artist with an already remarkable career… Tori plays numerous concerts with and without a band ... this time she came alone [to play in Tarragona] with a pair of acoustics… and the percussion provided by her stomping feet. Obviously an experienced performer, Tori knows how to effectively "fill" each moment of the concert with songs and anecdotes, presenting herself and her music with a combination of sensitivity and humor… Tori’s unique voice combined with her elegant way of playing the guitar was more than enough to convey all the emotion you could ask for, proving that sometimes it few tools in the right hands are enough to move an audience.”
“Watch out, this album will take you aback! [The Scorpion in the Story] is a flawless work where Tori’s voice and the music mix together with delightful aggression and sensuality… It's hard to find comparisons… Magnificent!" “Intensity is carying the 25-year-old Sparks to ever-greater accolades... what she is representing... is basically the song of her soul.” “Drenched in drama, featuring Sparks’ torrid vocals splashed over self-penned, alternative roots-rock numbers that sizzle with authenticity.” “Sparks has made quite a name for herself... be sure to catch [her] while she is in town.” “The voice of Tori Sparks is reminiscent of Ani DiFranco, but better because it sounds full and fulfills the potential created by the lyrics and music… [Her] music reminds me of rockin’ Sheryl Crow with a certain southern groove." “[Tori Sparks] comes across as a forceful and dynamic performer. At times she comes across with an elemental force as on “Blue Tattoo” or the fiddle driven swagger of “Tiger’s Mouth” [from her new album The Scorpion in the Story]…There is a muscular depth to the songs with plenty of light and shade.” “Even as singer-songwriters go, Nashville-based Tori Sparks is a bit of a self-confessed enigma, for on her extensive touring she displays a persona almost as much akin to a stand-up comedian as a folk musician. Her gift for musical storytelling, however, is strongly in evidence on The Scorpion In The Story… Any quirkiness is sufficiently present to make it interesting, but doesn't intrude on the message or the narrative. …Tori herself certainly makes sparks fly.” “ ‘Until Morning' reflects the dark side of Tori’s vocal and songwriting skill, while 'Come Out Of The Dark' is a little lighter regarding the songwriting and also touches more the Americana/Folk side... Without a doubt, this is high quality music and let’s hope her upcoming non-stop touring throughout 2012 in support of 'Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark' will pay off and give her the credit she deserves. 8.5 of 10 stars.” “[Tori Sparks’] dynamic live show is equal parts … singing and zany humor.” “Tori Sparks is a combination of Ani DiFranco steeped in Nashville and the Cowboy Junkies' Margo Timmins hopped up on Red Bull. ...Sparks' songwriting, punctuated by her come-hither hair flips, proved to be a delicious mix. ...Tori didn't need a backing band; her witty banter and engaging storytelling-such as her detailed account of an almost-doomed gig in New York City, and a song about a session singer from Memphis taking a stand against an oppressive spouse-made for a wonderful performance.” “Tori Sparks [is] a dynamic young folk-rock songwriter based in Nashville… something of a powerhouse…” “Tori Sparks has a great voice and uses it with intensity and force…There is a concept behind the separation of the two discs that I like… Until Morning reflects [Tori’s] dark and sensual side, and Come Out Of This Dark is filled with hope and faith. …Her lyrics are an integral aspect of her songs and well worth studying.”
“Tori Sparks attempts to discuss something about human nature on her ambitious new album [The Scorpion in the Story]… great poetic lyrics… soft tunes with sharp words. Sparks handles this with finesse, and sings like an angel… It's an appealing and intriguing listen.” "[The Scorpion in the Story] is an interesting mix… Tori´s voice is the centre of the songs… Really beautiful." "Do not attempt to operate heavy machinery while listening to Tori Sparks! I mean this in the best possible way, of course. Wow." "Tori Sparks is a DIY artist in every sense of the word. She is manager, producer, singer, songwriter, marketer, distributor, publisher, saleswoman, web designer and she drives her own car too! Phenomenal." “Tori Sparks... highlights [any] event.” “I've seen many artists, and Tori Sparks is the most amazing songwriter I've ever seen!” "Scorpion is my favorite record I've heard in years. It hasn't left my CD player!" "An exciting musical trip! The journey [through The Scorpion in the Story] begins in Kentucky, with the wonderful "Tall Towers,” and ends at the Canadian border. In between there's room for a lot to happen. …Sparks’ voice is powerful and intense, always filled with passion, and the band moves easily within all the musical styles" "Refreshing… [Tori Sparks’ The Scorpion in the Story] contains that secret ingredient of a hit song, the enjoyable heartbreak. All this to music that ties itself with understanding, to every word." "With the grit of Chrissie Hynde, the sadness of Martha Davis in the Motels, and the pure sensualness of Margo Timmins from the Cowboy Junkies, this girl hurls you onto planet Sparks and leaves you there ...[Tori Sparks] is truly, one of the most original artists I have heard in a long, long time." “Tori Sparks manages to avoid the misstep of sounding like every other coffeehouse-circuit singer… Sparks seems to have approached the arrangement of each song on its own...[she] wisely avoids the write-the-same-song-twelve-times approach favored by many young artists. Every track... sounds like Tori Sparks, but none of the songs sounds like another one.” “Those are the songwriting skills of someone like Roseanne Cash…Providence RI [from Under this Yellow Sun] has Springsteen a la Nebraska or Darkness on the Edge of Town magic about it.” “The Scorpion in the Story sounds Amazing with a capital A.” “Blending unconventional lyrics with fusion of folk, rock and blues, [Tori] Sparks is known for audience interaction and her a DIY (do-it- yourself) work ethic. ...Sparks has become a go-to person, sought after for advice by up-and-coming songwriters and musical artists.” “Wonderful, vaudeville-colored cabaret blues, country, and Americana. Sparks has a captivating voice… beautiful, well-produced, and with really good song material.” “Tori was simply spectacular onstage! I was enthralled by her performance and very much look forward to her gracing our fair city again... She is a truee star with such enthusiam... completely original music that dives deeply into the hearts and minds of those lucky enough to see/hear her in person. Her stage presence is stunning.” "Tori is a treat to have live in the studio... An excellent songwriter with incredible, fun energy." “[Tori Sparks] has displayed... a voice that is equal parts elegant, striking and rangy, while her songs can be soothing, evocative, or energetic.” “Tori Sparks is… a guitar whiz.” "Tori Sparks is aptly named – she definitely has that spark in her performance!” “Besides her great talent, Tori is also one of the hardest-working independent artists out there.” “At 26 years old, Sparks has an accomplished record as an independent musician with a do-it-yourself attitude… [she] has gained an international reputation in Europe, Canada, and the U.S. for her powerful vocal presence and her audience appeal.” “Tori’s voice evokes for me Sam Brown… as well as Joan Osborne… though I must say that Tori leads with style points over her aforementioned vocal colleagues. 5 stars… [The Scorpion in the Story] is an excellent disc.” "Like Natalie Merchant and Madeline Peyroux getting together to go on a binge... in an awesome sultry way." "[Tori] is an excellent songwriter... Her songs are well crafted, personal and at times introspective. ... More than anything, Sparks deserves to be recognized for her voice. It can take her about anywhere she wants -- it's that good." “The attractive and talented Tori Sparks dazzled the Beehive audience… Tori played guitar throughout the evening, explaining the stories behind the songs… The songs “Tall Towers” and “Blue Tattoo” particularly highlighted Tori’s musical versatility. …I would recommend that music fans of all genres go and see Tori Sparks if they get the chance, as they certainly will not be disappointed.” “There is a very sensual quality to her voice. It just drips with emotion...damn near heartbreaking. ...The songs are well written, interesting and catchy without being trite. The musicianship is fabulous... Under This Yellow Sun is a fantastic album.” “[Sparks] packs a wallop of a voice… each song proves that she’s more than just a pretty face.” “Just damn good… [an] exuberant and muscular vocalist/songwriter/guitarist.” “[Tori] should add The Pretenders to [her] list of influences. In a good way. I’d take that any day.” “Tori Sparks' stage presence is dynamic, personable, very entertaining, and witty. Many in your audience, for days to come after the show, sent accolades for her performance. Tori's songwriting is diverse, her delivery is intense and passionate, and her voice is, quite simple, powerful." "[Tori's] dynamic live show is equal parts soulful singing and zany stand-up-style humor... falls somewhere between Dixie rock, folk blues, and Americana." “Sparks’ bluesy vocals and intensely rhythmic groove paints a sexy and sultry sound that’s a joy to hear in any venue… [the] songstress rocked the room, drew listeners from tables in the back to the stage front and pulled people in from off the street (yes, during SXSW) to hear her…” “Sparks... [has] stuck to her muse and it was exactly what people wanted.” “Americana-Rock artist Tori Sparks sounds like one tough, passionate cookie. Her voice has the gritty blues of countrified Etta James and the cool growl of Janis Joplin. [Under This Yellow Sun] is blessedly full of simple truth, kick ass guitar riffs and soul baring song writing. … It's obvious that Tori Sparks is the real thing.” "A fearless performer, she is notorious for her blend of quirky humor and fiery delivery and has fused a sound and astyle that is unmistakably her own." “I found her vocal stylings interesting, different…Her music possesses a grit and angst not heard much today.” "Both concise and taut mixtures of lyrics with music that are thoughtful and evocative without being pretentious. … Discover Sparks’ powerful voice now…!” "All of her hard work is starting to pay off... Yet, with all the apparent beginnings of commercial success, Sparks remains incredibly focused on the reason she sings and plays: the passion that fuels the creation of her music." “When Tori began to sing I got chills down my entire body. I have never been in a room where a woman, or man’s for that matter; voice can bring me to that level. ...From song to song, I just wanted more... The show was a success from every possible angle. After a few hours of stories from Tori, I was nothing short of completely satisfied.” “Tori can rock so seductively then revert to a striking emotive process... there is nothing formulaic that you can pigeon-hole." “[Tori's] dynamic live show is equal parts soulful singing and zany stand-up-style humor...” “Amazing how you can feel so much power in a song without crying out loud.” “As a songwriter, [Tori Sparks] moves from mid-tempo honky-tonk songs to delicate emotive folk ballads…Sparks has a strong and versatile voice and should win over many people with her thoughtful and expressive songs.” “If her music needed to be categorized, Tori Sparks would define it as Americana, with her influences ranging from Rock and Folk to Blues and Jazz fusion. However, when it comes down to it, Tori just sounds like Tori.” “What was most impressive was the breadth of the entertainment. Funny, witty, a lot of local knowledge woven in, and of course quality music and stage presence. Well done, Tori Sparks. "Tori Sparks' music made me do it." " “Sparks’ hard work and constant touring is starting to pay off… Musically, Sparks doesn’t sound much like… any other young female singer-songwriter you’ve ever heard.” “[Tori Sparks’] latest release, Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark,
finds an artist who has matured over the past four years… The lyrics are more incisive and the music has acquired greater sophistication… The one thing that hasn’t changed is her voice, which remains a formidable instrument and the foundation of her appeal… Tori Sparks… takes a giant step with Until Morning/Come Out Of The Dark to produce a work that is both creative and inventive.” |