i don't know what it is about her, but she seems on my level. this is the first album of fiona's that i'd ever heard. "i know" is such a powerful song...hard to listen to if you can relate to how she feels. i love the fact that she's not all into glam and fame...she's just a person who's been through a lot of crap and knows how to express it through music. some of the songs are playful and some are painful...it's all hot and sultry because it's fiona. i recommend every album she's put out. they all have a lot of stuff underneath if you really listen. the order i bought her albums in were: when the pawn, tidal, and extraordinary machine. i recommend it to be done that way. i think if i had heard them in a different order, i might have a different opinion.

I can't say I'm the biggest Fiona Apple fan in the world, because she is a bit of an acquired taste for some, but her second album really impresses much as her debut record did. When you see her on t.v you don't expect the deep husky, soulful and sometimes angry voice to spring forth from such a slender young woman, but Fiona's talent will assure her a record deal as long as she wants to keep making records. Her music may not be typical "radio" friendly music, but for music lovers who appreciate good lyrics,good vocals and carefully crafted arrangements and songs, this artist is one to keep an ear out for!

Roughly 3 years after the impressive, although flawed, debut album Tidal, Fiona Apple returns with a powerful, angry gem that perfects everything she failed on with Tidal. This sophomore effort is sheer perfection and one of the best records to emerge from the 90's alternative scene. Here is my track-by-track breakdown of Fiona Apple's When The Pawn:

1. On The Bound-The music on this song is interesting and lilting, sounding almost like something from a carnival. It contains a few musical interludes that are absolutely great, and the chorus is sung with fiery, raw passion: "You're all I need!" Fiona cries in anger and desperation.

2. To Your Love-Has unique instrumentation, driven by a keyboard, drums, and Fiona's vocals. This song is caustic and powerful, especially the choruses and bridge.

3. Limp-One of the hit singles lifted from this release, and it's fairly short (3:30) and simple, which means it can be boring occasionally. It has a verse, chorus, verse, chorus, musical interlude, and chorus. It's lack of a bridge is disappointing, but it's still an amazing song.

4. Love Ridden-An anemic ballad that would be better if put on Tidal. Pretty and emotional, but nothing special. It's not a skipper, though. "Nobody sees when you are lying in your bed," Fiona croons. "And I want to crawl in with you/But I cry instead."

5. Paper Bag-I LOVE this song!!! One of my favorite Fiona songs of all time! It's catchy and ingratiate, with stunning lyrics. From here on out, the album just gets better and better.

6. A Mistake-A good song with an interesting arrangement, catchy melody, and good lyrics.

7. Fast As You Can-Once again, great instrumentation, great vocals, and great lyrics.

8. The Way Things Are-Another favorite. Everything about it is good. Love the piano and drums together.

9. Get Gone-An exceptionally pissed off song that is also one of my favorite Fiona songs of all time. The lyrics and chorus are incredible; the anger in Fiona's voice just oozes through the speakers, as if she's bleeding herself dry.

10. I Know-The perfect closer to the album, a beautiful ballad that is definitely superior to Love Ridden. It's so sad, and the high notes Fiona hits are beautiful.

When The Pawn is a stunning, angry masterpiece that trounces Tidal in every aspect. With this album, she gets everything right.