When The Pawn...
by Fiona Apple
Metascore
79

Generally favorable reviews - based on 17 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 15 out of 17
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 17
  3. Negative: 0 out of 17
  1. The A.V. Club
    60
    Apple is ... crafty, covering up her rambling, dorm-friendly lyrics with sharp arrangements and sturdy songcraft.
  2. New Musical Express (NME)
    50
    And for her second album of Amos-aping MTV-branded Lilith Fair fodder, the barmiest, prettiest pretender to Tori's throne of corporate crackpot chic deals unashamedly in that tired and trusted heavyweight heart-tugging currency: relationships.

Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best Album of 1999
2
#2 Most Discussed Album of 1999
2
#2 Most Shared Album of 1999

User Reviews

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User Score
8.8

Universal acclaim- based on 148 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 136 out of 148
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 148
  3. Negative: 12 out of 148
  1. GraemeWilson
    Mar 16, 2012
    10
    This album was Fiona coming into her real power. Utilizing heavy and interesting rhythms while using the lower register of the piano brings aThis album was Fiona coming into her real power. Utilizing heavy and interesting rhythms while using the lower register of the piano brings a dark and, at the same time, funky feel to her music. Her ballads shine even greater than they did on her first album as they move gently and make it difficult to shake the feeling of shear heartbreak. I have not heard a female artist with lyrical craft nearly as great as Ms. Apple's. Not only is this album a 10 out of 10, it ranks to be in my top 20 favorite albums of all time.… Full Review »
  2. sweeterman
    Jun 9, 2020
    1
    Subpar work from a tremendous artist.Nostalgia from coming from her first album made it one the fan favourites in its own right though theSubpar work from a tremendous artist.Nostalgia from coming from her first album made it one the fan favourites in its own right though the writing is ok I can’t say much about the production of this album.… Full Review »
  3. SRod
    Mar 31, 2009
    10
    Definitely her best, and possibly one of the best albums by a woman ever! Top notch production, mesmerizing arrangements, beautiful and Definitely her best, and possibly one of the best albums by a woman ever! Top notch production, mesmerizing arrangements, beautiful and intimate lyrics. Every little thing about 'When the pawn . . ." is brilliant.… Full Review »
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