Fiona Apple - When The Pawn (LP)

Fiona Apple's second studio album, "When the Pawn..." (full title: "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 No Body 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, Cuz You'll Know That You're Right"), was released on November 9, 1999. This album followed her critically acclaimed debut, "Tidal," and further cemented her reputation as a formidable singer-songwriter with a unique voice and perspective.

"When the Pawn..." was produced by Jon Brion, who is known for his work with artists like Aimee Mann and Kanye West. Brion's production on the album is lush and intricate, complementing Apple's introspective and often intense lyrics. The album's sound is a blend of jazz, pop, and alternative rock, with Apple's piano playing taking center stage alongside her distinctive vocal delivery.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Fast as You Can," which was also the lead single. The song showcases Apple's ability to combine complex rhythms with catchy melodies, and it received significant airplay on alternative radio stations. The music video, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, who was dating Apple at the time, further boosted the song's popularity.

Another highlight is "Paper Bag," a song that features a jazzy, upbeat tempo contrasted with lyrics about disillusionment and self-realization. This track, in particular, has been praised for its lyrical depth and musical arrangement, and it remains a fan favorite.

Critically, "When the Pawn..." was well-received. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Alternative Music Album, and many reviewers praised Apple's growth as an artist. Rolling Stone gave the album a positive review, noting Apple's "emotional honesty" and "musical sophistication." The album also appeared on several year-end lists, solidifying its place as a significant work in Apple's discography.

The album's full title, which is a 90-word poem, was inspired by a negative review Apple received in Spin magazine. In response, she wrote the poem, which reflects her defiance and confidence in her artistic vision. This title set a Guinness World Record for the longest album title at the time, adding an interesting tidbit to the album's history.

"When the Pawn..." is often seen as a pivotal album in Apple's career, showcasing her evolution as a songwriter and her willingness to push boundaries both musically and lyrically. The album's themes of introspection, resilience, and self-discovery resonate with listeners, and its innovative production continues to influence artists today.

Overall, "When the Pawn..." is a testament to Fiona Apple's artistry and her ability to craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable. It's an album that invites listeners to delve into its layers and discover something new with each listen, making it a timeless piece of work in the realm of alternative music.