For any fan of grammy award winner Fiona Apple, the news of her being featured on The Waterboys new concept album “Life Death And Dennis Hopper” undoubtedly came as a shock. The elusive alternative artist who remains absent from any and all social media has not released any new music since her 2020, three time grammy award winner, “Fetch the Bolt Cutters.” However, while it is not as critically acclaimed as some of her other music, Apples 1999 album “When the Pawn…” remains arguably the most extraordinary as well as my personal favorite.
Throughout her 31-year-long career, Apple constantly proves herself to be one of the most unique and distinctive artists of all time. In using a 90 word poem as an album title, it is apparent that “When the Pawn…” is no different. Featuring 10 meticulously crafted songs including anger stricken ballads and fast-paced tracks, this album is a staple that is undoubtedly timeless.
Keeping in theme with her previous albums, and later her most recent ones, Apple is incandescently raw, time and time again opening herself up to be viewed by the public. “When the Pawn…” track in particular, “The Way Things Are” shows Apple in her most vulnerable state, describing her acceptance with the mental abuse she has faced and will continue to face.
In all, I cannot advocate for Apples incredible songwriting and musicality enough, which has remarkably remained consistent since her debut at 18-years-old. Regardless of whether or not listeners are familiar with Apple’s music, it is undeniably difficult to undermine her talent and dedication as an artist.
“When the pawn hits the conflicts he thinks like a king
What he knows throws the blows when he goes to the fight
And he’ll win the whole thing ‘fore he enters the ring
There’s nobody to batter when your mind is your might
So when you go solo you hold your own hand
And remember that depth is the greatest of heights
And if you know where you stand then you know where to land
And if you fall it won’t matter ’cause you’ll know that you’re right”
Image: https://rateyourmusic.com/release/album/fiona-apple/when-the-pawn/
