All 5 Fiona Apple Albums, Ranked By Fans

Coley Reed
Updated July 1, 2024 5 items

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Voting Rules

Only studio albums.

Celebrating the genius of Fiona Apple, this ranked list of her albums reflects a collective judgment by those who have long admired her artistic brilliance. Fiona Apple, known for her poignant lyricism and eclectic soundscapes, has captivated fans since the mid-90s. This list aims to rank her studio albums based on fan votes, representing a vibrant community's appreciation of her work. Crowd-ranking like this reveals which albums resonate most, adding a democratic touch to the evaluation of an artist whose albums have significantly impacted alternative music.

Fiona Apple's discography, though not extensive, offers a rich variety of musical exploration. Tidal, her striking debut in 1996, quickly set her apart with raw, emotional tracks like "Criminal" and "Shadowboxer." Fast forward to 1999, and When the Pawn… displayed her more introspective side through the mesmerizing "Paper Bag" and the frenetic "Fast as You Can." In 2005, Extraordinary Machine stood out with its production journey and unique compositions such as "O' Sailor" and "Parting Gift." Her latest work, Fetch the Bolt Cutters, released in 2020, breaks conventional norms with its bold use of found objects as instruments, particularly shining in tracks like "Shameika." Each album brings different facets of her artistry to the forefront.

Fans have a pivotal role in shaping this list. Their votes help distinguish which albums soar and which may not strike the same chord. The intrinsic value of Fiona Apple’s music lies in its ability to connect deeply on personal and emotional levels. By voting, fans ensure that their favorite albums are celebrated, adding to the discourse of Fiona Apple's remarkable journey in the music industry.

Take part in this musical celebration by casting votes for favorite Fiona Apple albums. Whether it's rediscovering the somber elegance of Tidal or diving into the bold innovation of Fetch the Bolt Cutters, fan votes will illuminate which records of her discography resonate the most. Join this ranking journey to honor one of the best female vocalists of all time.

Latest additions: Fetch the Bolt Cutters
Over 100 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of All 5 Fiona Apple Albums, Ranked By Fans
  • When the Pawn…
    • Photo:
      • Epic, Clean Slate

    If you want a deep dive into life's unvarnished emotions, Fiona Apple's second studio album, released in November 1999, is a smart choice. Produced by Jon Brion, it's a soulful concoction of art rock and jazz fusion. Its poetic and record-breakingly long title of 444 characters (!) is a testament to Apple turning pain into pure art; it even nabbed a Grammy nod for Best Alternative Album. Critics were divided, but the honesty in tracks like "Fast as You Can" and "Paper Bag" struck a chord with many. It debuted at No. 13 on the US Billboard 200 and eventually hit Platinum status.

    Tracklist:

    1. On the Bound
    2. To Your Love
    3. Limp
    4. Love Ridden
    5. Paper Bag
    6. A Mistake
    7. Fast as You Can
    8. The Way Things Are
    9. Get Gone
    10. I Know

    • Release Date: 1999
  • Tidal
    • Photo:
      • Clean Slate, Work, Columbia
    2
    65 votes

    Tidal, Fiona Apple's debut studio album, captured the music world with its intensity and emotional depth. Winning a Grammy for Best Female Rock Vocal Performance in 1998 for the hit single "Criminal," it also featured memorable tracks like "Shadowboxer" and "Sleep to Dream." Critics praised its mature songwriting, comparing Apple's style to that of Alanis Morissette and Tori Amos. Following years of digital releases, the record received a special vinyl reissue in 2017.

    Tracklist:

    1. Sleep to Dream
    2. Sullen Girl
    3. Shadowboxer
    4. Criminal
    5. Slow Like Honey
    6. The First Taste
    7. Never Is a Promise
    8. The Child Is Gone
    9. Pale September
    10. Carrion

    • Release Date: 1996
  • The Idler Wheel...
    • Photo:
      • Epic, Clean Slate

    Fiona Apple's fourth studio album quickly captivated listeners with its emotive quality and haunting melodies. Earning a Grammy nomination for Best Alternative Album, it rose to No. 3 on the US Billboard 200, marking her highest debut to date. Critics praised it, including Rolling Stone, which listed it among the 500 greatest albums of all time. Packed with powerful tracks like "Every Single Night" and "Hot Knife," The Idler Wheel... features Apple's signature vocal intensity and poetic lyrics. Its sparse arrangements and unfiltered storytelling make it a moving exploration of love, pain, and resilience.

    Tracklist:

    1. Every Single Night
    2. Daredevil
    3. Valentine
    4. Jonathan
    5. Left Alone
    6. Werewolf
    7. Periphery
    8. Regret
    9. Anything We Want
    10. Hot Knife

    • Release Date: 2012
  • Fetch the Bolt Cutters
    • Photo:
      • Epic, Clean Slate
    4
    47 votes

    Fetch the Bolt Cutters

    Released in April 2020, Fiona Apple's fifth studio album became an instant sensation, claiming a Grammy for Best Alternative Music Album and ranking high on year-end lists. Fueled by its experimental nature, Fetch the Bolt Cutters features tracks like "Shameika" and "Under the Table," which mix unconventional percussion with Apple's raw vocals. Recorded primarily in her Venice Beach home, the record's signature sound comes from using found objects as instruments. It peaked at No. 4 on the US Billboard 200. Critics praised its boldness and honesty, with many highlighting the profound lyrics and intricate production.

    Tracklist:

    1. "I Want You to Love Me"
    2. "Shameika"
    3. "Fetch the Bolt Cutters"
    4. "Under the Table"
    5. “Relay”
    6. "Rack of His"
    7. "Newspaper"
    8. “Ladies”
    9. "Heavy Balloon"
    10. "Cosmonauts"
    11. "For Her"
    12. "Drumset"
    13. "On I Go"

  • Extraordinary Machine
    • Photo:
      • Epic, Clean Slate

    Released after a tumultuous production process, Fiona Apple's third studio album highlights her resilience and artistic depth. Initially produced by Jon Brion before Mike Elizondo stepped in, Extraordinary Machine earned a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Vocal Album in 2006. Critics embraced its eclectic style. Tracks like "O' Sailor" and "Parting Gift" highlight Fiona's raw, emotional storytelling. Debuting at No. 7 on the US Billboard 200, it ensured her status as a powerhouse in the music industry.

    Tracklist:

    1. Extraordinary Machine
    2. Get Him Back
    3. O' Sailor
    4. Better Version of Me
    5. Tymps (the Sick in the Head Song)
    6. Parting Gift
    7. Window
    8. Oh Well
    9. Please Please Please
    10. Red Red Red
    11. Not About Love
    12. Waltz (Better Than Fine)

    • Release Date: 2005