The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do

I was so afraid to open this and listen to it after the last two "new releases" from some of my favorite artists had come out and been completely...... bland. I hate to be one of those that says "It's just not the same anymore about any artist, because being a writer, myself, I know that you get to a point where you want to experiment more. The very first song, and I sighed the deepest breath of relief. I think that this album is pure poetry. Some of the music is hard to hear, in ways, but obviously that is an expression of where she is and her pain.... But the symbology, prose, strange journey this album brought me through over and over again has become as least as amazing to me as Extraordinary Machine, and when I heard that album, I was completely unable to listen to anything but for weeks, heh. There is only one song on this album that is "so-so" to me, but it's probably because its more humor than depth. Not saying it's not a good song, but I don't sit my friends down to say "just listen to how she says this". If you can stand the intensity, and have a love for words and prose, but are a little on the strange side and enjoy commiserating with other people who can voice theirs eloquently, I think there is a very good chance that you will find and appreciate the genius tucked into this album. Every time I listen, I hear something I may have missed or didn't quite catch if I'm listening undisturbed. If you can look past the stereotype of the first albums and you're new to Fiona, and any of what I've described sounds interesting, then this is probably the best cd to start with. In my opinion (and just because of my tastes)she really took the writing and journey to a profoundly new level. The most ingenious part is that she was able to keep the "Fiona" style in tact. Many times I've seen writers lose that balance. I still felt that same Sullen Girl, but there is a complexity that was just taken to the next level without losing her "core" in the process. This is not for someone who just likes to bop around to tunes, I don't think. :) It's for someone introspective who can either relate or appreciate really beautifully written, VERY raw content. The music was the second to grow on me, which is rare. But it all came together for me after listening to it over and over until when I stopped my ipod, the songs didn't stop for days. It's an atmospheric journey I've yet to experience in music, generally. In fact, I can't think of a single album I could compare it to. It stands out, still has some really amazing melodies, raw pain, sadness, anger (rage, maybe closer to, heh) and a sly sense of humor at times. And all put into a package that fits together somehow. To me, that is brilliant. I think if she could stay stable, this would be prelude to some truly, truly unforgettable albums. It does seem, however, that it's a gamble as to whether or not every album may be her last. My advice, listen with an open mind. Learn a little about her history, and really pay attention to the lyrics if your enjoy word weaving. I can almost guarantee there will be a few moments when you go "wow, that was brilliantly said". I can't offer any one song as a favorite, but I love the line in one of the songs (I'm so bad with titles) where she says, "We are like a wishing well and a bolt of electricity We can still support each other, all we gotta do's avoid each other 'Nothin' wrong when a song ends in a minor key." True. And better that than the explosive madness of a really bad breakup. :) And I love her tendency to speak over simply, or even crudely (Anyone remember Extraordinary Machine -song's called "get him back"? "One man he disappoint me. He give me the gouge and he take my glee". hehe.) There's so much more than that I could quote. There's a really brilliant song where she eludes to a volcano (another relationship) and then goes on to sing "....shot up hot from under the sea. One thing leads to another, and you made an island of me". Within the context of the song, it was so brilliantly put... I can't do it justice in such fragments, but, if listen with an open mind, and love really delving into lyrics as more than just ties to music as the main thread, you'll probably experience something really wonderful getting to know this album. I hope I made some semblacne of sense. I probably scared a few buyers away, but I just may have enticed some newer breed of fans who aren't afraid to dig deep and let the album grow on you. For me, it was a one shot deal, but for some I think it will need a couple close listens, and open minds who aren't afraid to dive into a few bizarre bits of imagery (in the brain) or ideas and will recognize how amazing this album is, standing SO very much in it's own galaxy, but still staying SO true and cohesive on it's own. I hope someone experiences what I did. It's not often for me that albums bring me to these places. That's when you know it's magic..... or wizardry is the better word, me thinks. Because this was no mere trick of the hat but a deeply developed, yet raw and exposed "project" (for lack of a better word...) that makes sense as a unit in a beautiful and strange little world of its own. I never write reviews, but I couldn't help myself. I think that a new breed of minds will appreciate this more than the general populace. If you are hesitant because of the name "Fiona Apple", I'd let that rest and give it a good listening. It'd be a shame for someone who would relate to it, and she DOES let you into some really raw places, to miss it because of a more mainstream start. You're awesome (and going to enjoy your new cd) if you lasted to the end of this review. :) Be conscious of it, but also let your unconscious take you away a bit, and you'll see what I mean. FAQ: 1. No, I don't do drugs, not even the smokie (but, I'm not saying "I didn't inhale!" when I was younger). I'm just strange (I prefer, eclectic, but some people around me prefer to tend towards using.... more drastic terms. I just ask them to try to grow a less limited vocabulary, but that hasn't done me much good (or ill, for that matter). ;) I imagine this particular album would be quite an experience if I did listen in an even more heightened state. heh. :) Do share if you try it out that way. It will be some very powerful imagery, I'll bet. Cheers to anyone who had the same experience, or got there in a different way. And more cheers if you give this album a try based on my fragmented "review" and grow to love it. Then I haven't wasted a moment of time writing this, for sure. ~Wes

If you LOVED Extraordinary Machine and consider it one of the best albums in recent memory, you might want to skip this record. This record has no polish, no hip-hop beats, no fun/silly/dancy hooks, and almost nothing light-hearted. Almost. Alternatively, if you're a fan of Janis Joplin, Animal Collective, and more complicated - and yes, more difficult - art, then this is your dream come true. I fall in the latter camp. This album is WAY more art than luster. It's more honest that way. Upon the first listen, I was slightly put off by the transition between what one might initially consider "cute" and "interesting" in the opening track "Every Single Night" (which recalls 2005's "Extraordinary Machine") and "Daredevil," a song which seems totally unpredictable and wild by contrast. The percussion, including the percussive piano chords, are driving and maddening! Her vocal performance is top-notch, and when she gets to the jazzy, Janis-esque bridge, you're having a "wow" moment. It may take a few spins, this isn't the kind of song (or album!) that's immediately gratifying for everybody. This song is indicative of the album as a whole in that it's challenging, rewarding, off-putting, and gripping all at the same time. "Valentine" is a welcome respite from the madness of the second track, reminiscent of Fiona's earlier albums, especially When The Pawn.... The stand-up bass is positively delicious. She injects some humor and sweetness into a rather melancholy song. It feels like an instant classic. The next song "Jonathan" brings us back into challenging territory. It begins with extremely unpleasant sounds that remind me of Nine Inch Nails. Very industrial, mechanical sounds. It's a meandering piece, and the conflict of the relationship is stunningly apparent in the music, in the lyrics, in the vocals. It's actually quite a feat. I've heard complaints that this song runs too long, which is fair, but being that this song is about an awkward, bumpy train ride, lasting too long in discomfort is kind of the point. I had to revisit the next track, "Left Alone," a few times to believe it. In fact, I still can't believe it. It's an unambiguously ugly, mean, self-loathing, self-pitying cluster-mess! She verges on so much musical potential - you think for a moment she might take you there, to some place soaring and heavenly. But her voice taunts. It contorts. She starts groaning and squealing sometimes in the same word. It's very jarring. Again Fiona has put a very uncomfortable emotion into songform. Absolutely brilliant. Has to be heard to be believed. Multiple times. "My ills are reticulate, my woes are granular/The ants weigh more than the eleph-ants." No one is making music like this nowadays folks, NO ONE. "Werewolf" is the "Paper Bag" (from 1999's When The Pawn...) of The Idler Wheel.... It's plaintive and pretty. Rare on this record. It's reminiscent of older music, Kurt Weill? Carole King? Probably not. The song is gorgeous heard out of the context of the album, but it shines particularly brightly among the other songs. It's so gentle, so humble. It's another respite after the density and difficulty of the last song. A good thing too, because the next song, "Periphery" is not an easy listen. Even in a simple and gorgeous tune, Fiona manages to have some fun: at one point, a banjo makes a cameo for 4 notes, and then bows out. Another fantastic detail to this song is the sample from the playground. It somehow captures nostalgia, innocence, sadness, happiness and terror all together. I love her spontaneity on this record, it is beyond refreshing. "Nothing wrong when/a song ends in a minor key." You can say that again, Fi. Your entire album is in a minor key. "Periphery" is discordant and unpleasant. Deliberately. It opens up with ripping sounds. Again, Apple hints at harmony once in a while, with backup vocals popping up right in the middle of the song for a few bars, sounding almost - almost! - harmonious. But then the piano goes bonkers and she sings "I don't appreciate/people who/don't appreciate...You let me down/I don't even like you anymore at all!" Absolutely bizarrely delicious. And then it sounds like she's ripping up something again. I heard a pillow was one of the instruments in the liner notes, and this could easily be a pillow getting shredded and it's easy to imagine feathers floating around when the song ends. The next song snuck up on me. It's a real stunner. "Regret" starts out with mechanical beats, like an unhappy machine with missing pieces. Again: immediate tension. The piano is also displaying a longing: chord. pause. chord. pause. chord. pause. After being so off-kilter in "Periphery," "Regret" feels measured and sure-footed, even when she sings the ridiculous/hilarious highlight lyric: "I ran out of white doves' feathers/to soak up the hot piss that comes from your mouth/every time you address me." But finally, it's on "Anything We Want" that Fiona finally reveals her secret garden. The toys are all in full effect, bangs and taps and clings and clangs, with Fiona's grounding piano leading the way. In the middle there's a sort-of crescendo chord change that seems to finally peel back the ivies and let the sun shine in on you (and her). It's a unique and wonderful listening experience. The album closer, "Hot Knife" is indeed hot and sharp, a perfect upbeat finish that helps alleviate some of the emotional exhaustion one may feel at the end of such laundry airing. It's infectious and warm and yummy the way "The First Taste" (on 1996's Tidal) was, except in a much more nuanced execution. "You can relax around me." It's easy to think The Idler Wheel... is almost under-produced, until you realize that the vocals are well-layered and the sampling is perfect - and then you realize that these complex and difficult emotions are perfectly framed by this production. It's a strange sound taken as a whole, but a sound Fiona is comfortable with. Not that she didn't previously have full artistic control over her music, but she was kind of wandering around looking for a sound on her first 3 records - and that was a beautiful and wonderful journey to follow her on - but THIS is how Fiona Apple wants to sound. This is an artist at her peak, honestly showcasing her talents, her toys, her thoughts, her turmoil, her artwork, her ideas. And it's astounding, nothing less.

Of all the brilliant, talented female musicians of the 90s - Fiona Apple would not have been the one I'd picked to artistically reign supreme in 2012. But Idler is a masterful LP and Fiona effortlessly takes the crown. I've watched and wept as Tori Amos has gutted her feminism by desperately clinging to her plastic surgery enhanced dolled up closeups. I've held my forehead in shame as Bjork recorded an album on her freaking I-phone, so out of touch she believes embracing elitist technology will keep her vibrant. And I've fallen asleep listening to Ani Difranco sing her ode to Occupy Wall Street. So ya know, really, if I hadn't suffered a romantic disappointment the very same week Fiona Apple (Unidisputed Goddess of the Break-Up Album) released her first album in 7 years, I don't really think I would have had the heart to download this after all the disappointment that's come lately from my posse of favorite females of the 90s Well, Gawd bless relationships that end in disappointment and Fiona Apple for documenting the misery that follows them in all its glory. If you've made it into your 30s, or 40s, perhaps even 50s divorced, never married, or not-otherwise-specified alone, ask yourself this question: Who exactly is singing our song? The formerly mentioned ladies are all confronting wedded bliss (and I wish them all the world's happiness) while the rest of us are marching on, facing the world alone, without a back up choir. This release is enchanting. I found myself tapping my foot, nodding my head, and singing along. Fiona has matured - This album is complete from start to finish. It is a complete work of art, spilling over the edge with creative juice - no room for filler tracks or incomplete thoughts. This is developed, mature, and different than anything else she's put out so far. Yet, it's a natural evolution from where she started. For a seven year absence, there is no anxiety here. Fiona is calm, calculated and serene. "I can love the same man in the same bed in the same city But not in the same room, it's a pity, but Oh, it never bothered me before Not 'til this guy, what a guy, oh God what a good guy And I can't even enjoy him And now I'm hard, too hard to know I don't cry when I'm sad anymore, no no Tears calcify in my tummy Fears coincide with the tow How can I ask anyone to love me When all I do is beg to be left alone? " Her skill as pianist is formidable and she finally steps into her own as a competent musical rival to all of her contemporaries. She bends her piano to her will and holds it spellbound. Fiona's strong Jazz roots give this album a distinguished flair you won't find anywhere else in the last or the next decade. She is heart-broken, yet absolutely her own, a complete, and fulfilled human being who can't help but keep rockin' on. Taking the road less traveled has left Fiona to fine tune and craft a passion that her contemporaries traded in for settled stability - This album is riddled with bipolar angst that refuses rest or regret and therefore stays vital, restless and alive. Her trademarked confessional passion is here, but it is no longer a young woman's passion; honest and inspired, Fiona's talent has ripened, and it is so bitter-sweet it will leave you salivating and craving more with spit dripping down your chin. Pure Excellence - Highly recommended!

The keyword in that title is album. This seems to be an album that fans are either loving or hating. I only wonder how the fans are getting there... If you are a strong fan of Fiona, you probably already own the album, but all I can suggest is to not give up on it too quickly. Of course, there is no guarantee it will ever grow on you. This album is not as melodic as her previous albums, but that is more of a comment with regard to pop-like melodies that mainstream listeners of pop, rock, etc are used to. The jazz fan in me (that has become a favorite genre of mine) finds this album has plenty of melody. It is just something that doesn't become apparent mostly due to some differences in the vocal melody, musical melody, and even some rhythmic differences that remind me of some free jazz musicians of the past. It is a loose analogy, however, so don't expect a jazz album. Now as I mentioned, this work is best when listened as an album, and it really fits nicely as a progression in her catalog, but it stands alone as well. Reading the reviews there are many comments about the darkness and emotion in this album, and it is there. But she has also matured in her song writing, and for all the anger that may be there, she knows how to control it, and she definitely shows she's not an entirely depressing person. Put it all together, and you have an album that fits nicely into her catalog. Fiona has not put out an album that is a part 2 to anything she's every done. She has evolved a bit with a relatively free approach. As such, the complex melodies are difficult to grasp on a first listen, and they are leaving many fans with mixed opinions. I'm sure many fans are forming opinions on a first listen, but if I had to do that I would have given this album 1 star. It took a half dozen listens for my rating to go up. Your experience may vary as may your preference. I only want to promote awareness of what this album entails. If you count on a first listen to form an opinion, then I can only suggest you at least give this one a second. If you are on the fence, then I suggest finding a streaming source. I'm fairly certain samples on this album won't work. I don't even think you could download a track or two. This album works as a unit, and none of the songs really stand out as you'd expect if you are looking for hits. Perhaps knowing that will be enough to shape a decision on buying it or not. All I know is that Fiona Apple has never been the easiest musician to be into, and she hasn't made it any easier with The Idler Wheel... What I did find is that at least for me, additional chances, and not continually, have given me an appreciation of this album. I still don't think it is a 5-star effort, but I do feel that it is a 3.5 to 4 star one. I would guess that many of those who gave it a 1 to 2 star review after one listen would probably also reach a 3 star review with a little time, but as with any music, it boils down to your own opinion.

Fiona has delivered an amazing album with non-traditional arrangements and unbelievable hooks that will catch you and stay with you. Could anyone else deliver a song where the word "brain" is stretched out to create a sing-along chorus? She plays around with unique and different sounds that work for the most part - sometimes not as much. Either way, it leaves you with an opportunity to listen multiple times and catch different nuances. As you would expect with a Fiona Apple album, the lyrics are oftentimes poetry containing neat-fitting sounds and rhymes clashing together in a pleasing way. The word phrasing is a little more obscure in parts than previous albums but the emotional tenor of her voice conveys the feelings fairly clearly throughout the album. Of course, in some songs, the words and emotions are extremely clear. Regret: "I've run out of white dove feathers to soak up the hot p-ss that comes from your mouth when you address me. Left Alone: "How can I ask anyone to love me when all I do is beg to be left alone?" Valentine: "While you were watching someone else, I stared at you and cut myself." Awesome album with an awesome coda in "Hot Knife" which was a real stand out upon the first few listens. It fades in its standing next to the other songs upon multiple listens. This may have more to do with the complexities of the other songs than with "Hot Knife". Regardless, this unique duet reflects an amazing testament to Fiona's vision as a songwriter and artist. Do yourself a favor and spring for the $10 and buy this album.

The wait is over and, as usual, Fiona Apple does NOT disappoint. This album, although noticeably different than her other 3, has one thing in common with the rest of her discography--the music is outstanding! And lyrically, she's still the cerebral songstress we know & love (as all the greats are: Tori Amos, Alanis Morissette, & Kate Bush). It's always difficult to name favorites because I usually end up naming every track on the album by the end of the sentence, but this time I'll digress & only name half the songs...Every Single Night, Daredevil, Valentine, Anything We Want, & Hot Knife. I want to share the core lyrics to the last song named so that you can see how uniquely different these songs are compared to past gems like Shadowboxer, The Way Things Are, & Parting Gift (to name only 3 : ( "If I'm butter, if I'm butter, if I'm butter then he's a hot knife. He makes my heart a cinemascope screen, showing a dancing bird of paradise. I'm a hot knife, I'm a hot knife, I'm a hot knife he's a pad of butter. If I get a chance I'm going to show him that he's never gonna need another, never need another..." You hear these separate paragraphs alone at least once, but the two overlap each other for the most part of the entire song. And if you're skeptical, don't be because I promise it's extremely catchy!

A fan of Fiona's from the beginning, I love her unpredictability and passion and respect that she marches to the beat of a different drummer. That said, I'm a bit disappointed in this effort. The genius on display in songs like "Every Single Night", "Regret" and "Hot Knife" which combine her unique lyrical sensibility with memorable melodies are too often forsaken for the theatrics and clever rhythmic structures of most of the album, especially on pieces such as "Jonathan", "Left Alone" and "Periphery" which are largely weak on melody even as they make a deep impression lyrically. They seem a little half-realized to me. Minimalism is fine, whether it's the song or the production but I do miss Jon Brion's touch. While "When The Pawn..." is still the apex of Fiona's work for me and I don't expect her to continue in that vein, this disc did challenge me and for that I'm grateful. If you're willing to shell out the extra bucks for the deluxe version, the handwritten lyrics and drawings within the replica of a student journal is gorgeous and gives insight into the making of the album and Fiona's art. A couple of postcards, a fold-out poster of the cover and a nifty DVD of five live performances is also included. Please just bring the melodies next time around, Ms. Apple!

Me encantó. Llego bien y rápido.

Edición en lo que simula una libreta. Lleva el disco y después un DVD con cinco canciones grabadas en directo además de un desplegable con la portada del disco y dos fotografías personales de Fiona (entre postal y polaroid para entendernos). Las páginas del cuaderno contienen las letras manuscritas y toda una serie de dibujos, bocetos y acuarelas muy interesantes que lo convierten todavía más en un disco para atesorar porque la música es una auténtica maravilla desde las letras, a los sobrios arreglos a su personal voz. Imprescindible.

Great CD.... fast postage.

Stunning and almost scary in it's intensity. Great piano chops, a marvelous voice and lyrics that haunt you.

El último disco de Fiona no es precisamente el más fácil de entender, pero después de varias reproducciones te enamoras de él. Esta versión es un verdadero lujo, contiene un booklet estilo libreta con ilustraciones y escritos, ademas de dos postales y un poster.

Non avevo mai ascoltato Fiona Apple, ho acquistato il cd su consiglio di altri appassionati. Devo dire che questo lavoro mi è piaciuto molto, lei ha una bellissima voce e la musica non si limita a riproporre l'ennesima versione di "easy jazz" tanto in voga in questo periodo. I brani presentano uno stile intrigante, tutti acustici, che hanno bisogno di 2/3 ascolti almeno per essere apprezzati fino in fondo. Ottima anche la qualità della registrazione, cosa che, per questo genere, aiuta moltissimo ad apprezzare il cd, soprattutto su impianti di un certo livello. Consigliatissimo!