Artist: Fiona Apple Album: Extraordinary Machine

Year: 2005
Duration: 1:02:56

A Deep Dive Into Fiona Apple's Extraordinary Machine

If you're a fan of introspective and thought-provoking music, Fiona Apple's Extraordinary Machine is a must-listen. Released in 2005 after a long hiatus for the artist, this album showcases Apple's exceptional songwriting and unique vocal style. In this critical review, we'll take a closer look at Fiona Apple's background and the music genre of Extraordinary Machine, examine the standout songs on the album, analyze the most innovative parts of the record, and offer our own critique of the project.

Background and Genre: Fiona Apple first gained popularity with her debut album Tidal in 1996. She quickly became known for her raw, emotional lyrics and distinctive voice. After several years away from the public eye, Apple began working on Extraordinary Machine in 2003. The album was produced by Jon Brion, who also worked on her previous album When the Pawn... The genre of Extraordinary Machine can be best described as art pop or chamber pop. It's a genre that emphasizes the use of orchestration and classical instrumentation in modern pop songs.

Standout Songs: There are several standout tracks on Extraordinary Machine. O' Sailor is a track that centers around Apple's life experiences, with vulnerable lyrics that make the listener feel as though they're experiencing the introspective journey with the artist. Not About Love is another great song that showcases Apple's exceptional lyricism. The track features an unpredictable structure, jumping from a soft spoken-word introduction to a belted-out chorus. Parting Gift is a haunting, bare-bones ballad that shows off Apple's vocal range and emotional delivery.

Innovative Parts: One of the most innovative parts of Extraordinary Machine is its orchestration. Jon Brion's production style is infused with classical instrumentation, like harpsichords and wooden flutes, which gives the project a unique and otherworldly feel. Additionally, Apple's vocal experimentation on some tracks makes for a distinct listening experience. In Get Him Back, she employs a husky and edgy tone that's not heard much elsewhere in her catalog.

Critique: While Extraordinary Machine is a great album, there are some criticisms that can be made. Some reviewers have noted that the album feels overproduced, particularly in the use of Brion's musical arrangements. Additionally, some have noted that Apple's vocal experimentation doesn't always work, leading to moments of vocal fatigue or over-singing.

Fiona Apple's Extraordinary Machine is a unique and complex album that showcases the artist's exceptional songwriting and emotional range. Its art pop genre, orchestration, and vocal experimentation make it an innovative and engaging listen. While there are some elements of the album that could have been improved, it's an essential addition to any music lover's library. If you haven't listened to Extraordinary Machine yet, now is the time to dive in and experience this exceptional work for yourself.