What makes Extraordinary Machine by Fiona Apple notable?

Extraordinary Machine was notable for its unique production approach, featuring lush orchestration by Jon Brion that set it apart from typical pop releases. The album received widespread critical acclaim, including a nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album at the Grammy Awards, and it peaked at number 7 on the Billboard 200 chart, reaffirming Apple's status as an influential artist in the 2000s. By the time Fiona Apple released Extraordinary Machine in 2005, she was navigating the aftermath of her critically acclaimed debut, Tidal, and its follow-up, When the Pawn..., which had solidified her as a prominent voice in alternative rock. This album marked her return after a lengthy hiatus filled with industry pressure and personal challenges, showcasing her resilience and artistic evolution.

Who is Extraordinary Machine for?

Extraordinary Machine works well if you're into haunting introspection and vulnerability, captivating narratives with emotional depth and delicate orchestration for quiet moments.

How many songs are on Extraordinary Machine?

Extraordinary Machine has 19 tracks, running approximately 79 minutes.

Released 21 years ago this October

Extraordinary Machine

Fiona Apple · 2005

79 min · 19 tracks · alternative rock

A blend of intricate melodies and introspective lyrics, merging chamber pop with a signature raw emotionality.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Extraordinary Machine — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of self-discovery and resilience through its whimsical yet poignant piano arrangement and lyrical exploration of personal growth.
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Get Him Back — This track stands out for its playful yet bitter reflection on heartbreak, delivered through clever wordplay and an engaging melody that highlights Apple's vocal prowess.
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O’ Sailor — With its hauntingly beautiful arrangement, this song delves into feelings of longing and loss, showcasing Apple's ability to convey deep emotion through her distinctive vocal delivery.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

79 /100

Summit

Higher than 99% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate songwriting and unique production, creating a distinct sound within alternative rock.

What we noticed

The first track opens with a slow build, layering strings and piano before introducing Apple's vocals, which remain prominent throughout.
Several tracks feature unconventional song structures, such as 'Tymps', which shifts between multiple sections without a clear chorus.
The album includes moments of sparse instrumentation, particularly in 'Parting Gift', where Apple’s voice is accompanied only by minimal piano.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 9/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

haunting introspection and vulnerability
captivating narratives with emotional depth
delicate orchestration for quiet moments
thoughtful reflections on relationships
live versions enhance raw emotion

Maybe skip if you

seeks instant gratification tracks
prefers upbeat party anthems

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Fiona Apple released Extraordinary Machine in 2005, she was navigating the aftermath of her critically acclaimed debut, Tidal, and its follow-up, When the Pawn..., which had solidified her as a prominent voice in alternative rock. This album marked her return after a lengthy hiatus filled with industry pressure and personal challenges, showcasing her resilience and artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: Regina Spektor· Tori Amos· Bat for Lashes