Fiona Apple's "Extraordinary Machine" is a captivating journey through the intricate landscapes of art pop and chamber pop, released on October 4, 2005, under Epic/Clean Slate. This, her third studio album, is a testament to her unique vocal prowess and piano mastery, crafted with the help of producer Jon Brion. The album's journey to release was anything but ordinary, with delays and speculation adding to its allure.
"Extraordinary Machine" spans 50 minutes and features 12 tracks, each offering a glimpse into Fiona Apple's introspective world. The album kicks off with the title track, "Extraordinary Machine," and continues with standout songs like "Get Him Back," "Better Version Of Me," and "Not About Love." The album showcases a blend of upbeat and gentle sounds, with notable contributions from renowned musicians such as Questlove, Abe Laboriel Jr., Jim Keltner, and Benmont Tench.
Fiona Apple's distinctive style shines through in songs like "Tymps (The Sick in the Head Song)," which evokes a whimsical, almost Disney-like atmosphere. The album's production quality is top-notch, with the original 2005 pressing praised for its superior sound quality. Despite some delays and challenges, "Extraordinary Machine" stands as a significant work in Fiona Apple's discography, offering a unique blend of alternative and pop sounds that have captivated fans and critics alike.