Written by Taylor Higgins
Fiona Apple’s fourth studio album, “The Idler Wheel…” Is an explosive, emotional, and acutely evocative record that can be defined by one word – haunting. After a 7-year gap, “The Idler Wheel” emerges considerably less polished and grittier than her previous works, utilizing unique instrumental choices such as feet scraping on gravel in “Periphery.” The famously reclusive musician’s talents as a vocal artist and pianist are especially highlighted in this entirely acoustic album. Each track’s intimate sound places the listeners eemingly right in the room with Apple, where they are forced to confront the psychological downpour Apple unleashes over a mere yet mighty 45 minutes.
“Daredevil” is a notable track through Apple’s use of her own voice as an instrument. Apple’s vocal performance throughout the track ranges from soft, monotone lows to throat- burning, howling highs. Apple roars “Seek me out! Look at, look at, look at, look at me, I’m all the fishes in the sea!” The ebb and flow that defines this track mirrors the complex emotionality and themes behind it. Juxtaposing forceful and restrained, the impulse to take risks and the fear that comes with those choices. Apple’s self-awareness is unrelenting and well-said with “I may need a chaperone.”
“Valentine” begins noticeably more subdued than the previous track, Daredevil. It begins with a muted, pillowy heartbeat that plays throughout the song, providing contrast to the deceptively upbeat yet bareboned melody. Apple’s voice takes on a playful tone as she sings, “I’m a tulip in a cup. I stand no chance of growing up.” Her piano seems to share her emotions throughout the track, varying from bright and skipping to heavy and gloomy, elevating subtle nuances as Apple sings.
“Left Alone” in my opinion is the most dynamic track of the record – beginning with a drum solo that lays the groundwork for an intoxicating piano melody that immediately grabs the listener and whisks them away. Apple’s voice mimics the stair-stepping rhythm of her piano as she begins with, “You made your, made your overtures when you were a sure and orotund mutt.” The vocabulary combined with the fast-paced delivery of the lyrics and repetitive descending scale sung by her piano electrifies the listener, preparing them for an all-but screeching halt where the only sound is Apple’s voice wailing the question: “How can I ask anyone to love me, when all I do is beg to be left alone?”
The magic in this album lies in Apple’s ability to make each track in this highly personal, emotional work mean something to someone. Fiona Apple’s “The Idler Wheel… ” proves itself to be an incredibly expressive, heartfelt collection of music complete with Apple’s own personal flairs and choices that truly elevate the work into something powerful.
10/10