Fiona Apple - The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Chords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do

Fiona Apple
The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Chords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do
Epic (2012)
By Alli Smith

After seven long years of hearing no new material from the singer/songwriter Fiona Apple, she released an album in June with a title that may take a few breaths to read: The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than the Driver of the Screw and Whipping Chords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do.

When it comes to witty, dark, and sometimes humorous lyricism, Fiona delivers strongly on this record just like she has in the past. Similar themes in the majority of her songs arise, such as rough break-ups or a desire for something that she cannot attain. Some lyrics come off as clever and very metaphorical like in the track "Valentine,” in which she exclaims, "I'm a tulip in a cup, I stand no chance of growing up." Others are very bold and straightforward such as the song "Left Alone,” where Fiona asks herself, "How can I ask anyone to love me, if all I do is beg to be left alone?"

What stands out in The Idler Wheel compared to Fiona's previous discography is the incredibly unique instrumentation. In the track "Jonathan," the piano seems off-kilter yet still manages to sound catchy, while other tracks contain sounds that do not even sound like instruments to begin with! "Periphery" is a song that opens up sounding like a person walking on gravel, somehow managing to maintain a beat. Other tunes come off as otherworldly, like "Hot Knife," which contains a simple drum heath and a loop of romantic vocals.

Speaking of vocals, Fiona's voice is as strong as it's ever been, and even more diverse. One particular lighthearted song that shines on the record, "Anything We Want,” holds her whimsical notes perfectly and gives off an almost giddy feeling. On the flip side, Fiona practically screeches on "Regret," making it a harsher listen. "Daredevil" is also full of wonderful screams, delivered in a beautiful fashion.

All in all, The Idler Wheel is a very memorable listen and is full of soundscapes and vocals that are uncommon in most records. It keeps you interested, despite the fact that it contains some disheartening themes. Fiona has progressed since the last time we've heard from her, and has proven with this album that she can still manage to appeal to longtime fans while luring new ones in.