the idler wheel (columbia)
Coming some seven years after her previous offering Extrodinary Machine, Fiona Apple’s fourth album is bursting with beauty. Alone with her voice, piano and percussionist Charley Drayton for the most part, Apple has nowhere to hide, and we’re glad she doesn’t.
The arrangements are haunting and compelling, drawing influences here and there from her jazzy first album Tidal, as well as colouring themselves with harmonies, subtle effects, complex rhythms and additional keyboards.
Nothing is wasted, either in composition or arrangement. The Idler Wheel is evidence that Fiona Apple remains as rich and as compelling as ever.
Duration: 42:34
Listen to: Jonathan.