Photos by Jenny Rogers.
Today is the day. I’m (finally) posting. It only makes sense that this debut post comes on the same day that I (finally) received in the mail The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than The Screw And Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do.
To say the least, I am a happy girl. Those that know me well know that there have been a handful of constants in my life – the inability to choose a restaurant; a tendency to car-sing; an adoration for sarcasm; and a love, love, love for Ms. Fiona Apple.
Fact: I was far too young to understand just what in the hell Fiona was singing about, way back in 1997 when I purchased her debut album Tidal. Fact: it didn’t matter. It’s been a love affair since the moment I heard the first drum beats of Sleep to Dream.
So, you can imagine how tough it’s been (Fiona fans, amirite?) to wait SEVEN years for this package that I received today. I know it’s cliché to say “it’s been worth the wait.” Much like I hate the phrase “such as,” (thaaaank you for ruining that one, Ms. South Carolina), I hate the phrase “worth the wait.” But, you guessed it. The album was… worth the wait.
You’re in luck, as I’m not going to get into any serious musical analysis here. I’m far too biased to critique this work, but I will say this: The Idler Wheel is her best work yet. It’s evolved, certainly, but it’s also the most primitive and stripped down that she’s ever sounded. The command she has over her voice is astonishing – even live, which I can experience thanks to my deluxe version – and her partnership with drummer Charley Drayton is pure gold. But what do I know? Dan P. Lee wrote a brilliant piece about hangin’ with Fiona that’s already been referenced by writers across the ‘net, and Pitchfork’s review is, in true Pitchfork fashion, pretty superb. So head there if you’re looking for the professional’s opinion.
In a couple of weeks, I’ll be heading up to that Great Mistake on the Lake to see Ms. A. live (and almost-front-row-center, natch) with one of my best pals. I’ll make sure to keep you all updated as to how that goes (I can see into the future, and it will “go” fabulously.)
For now, I leave you with three things: First, the promise for more posts, and soon. Second, Fiona performing Anything we Want on Fallon. And third, and oldie but a freakin’ goodie, Fiona performing Elvis Costello’s I Want You. You can thank me later. Or now, in the comments.
Filed under: life, music, musings Tagged: art, Fiona Apple, music, The Idler Wheel Is Wiser Than The Screw And Whipping Cords Will Serve You More Than Ropes Will Ever Do
