Fetch the Bolt Cutters
by Fiona Apple
  • Record Label: Epic
  • Release Date: Apr 17, 2020
User Score
8.1

Universal acclaim- based on 1396 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 1,131 out of 1396
  2. Mixed: 58 out of 1396
  3. Negative: 207 out of 1396
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  1. yaboirolex
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is such a huge statement as an album. The lyrics are brilliant, incredible instrumental, incredible production, incredible everything. It feels almost like a new statement for music in general, it got too much going on and everything just works incredibly well, nothing like it. It feels like a huge fresh air of a completely original, innovative and refined masterpiece.
  2. viniciussawate
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is certainly Fiona Apple's most affordable album since her cheeky debut. But it's not for it's melodic side (it's difficult to retain melodies), but for it's very new and impossible "delivery". A sigh is passed. As an expression of this paradoxical field of conversion and musical composition, the album is a masterpiece. In it, you can practically feel the creative and emotionalThis is certainly Fiona Apple's most affordable album since her cheeky debut. But it's not for it's melodic side (it's difficult to retain melodies), but for it's very new and impossible "delivery". A sigh is passed. As an expression of this paradoxical field of conversion and musical composition, the album is a masterpiece. In it, you can practically feel the creative and emotional process as it is loaded with relentless and overwhelming revisionism; of a disturbing mix between memory and the present.… Expand
  3. ooit
    Apr 19, 2020
    4
    After seeing all the praise being given to this album I decided to give it a try and after 3 listens through I feel like I'm missing something. It's like i'm listening to a completely different record than everyone else. There are a handful of solid tracks like I Want You To Love Me (aside from the grating vocals to close the song), Rack of His, Ladies, and Cosmonauts. The problem withAfter seeing all the praise being given to this album I decided to give it a try and after 3 listens through I feel like I'm missing something. It's like i'm listening to a completely different record than everyone else. There are a handful of solid tracks like I Want You To Love Me (aside from the grating vocals to close the song), Rack of His, Ladies, and Cosmonauts. The problem with making music in the kind of head space she seems to be in is that you toe the line between brilliance and pretentious drivel. Personally, I feel like the album wandered into the latter too many times for me to enjoy (Relay and Newspaper stand out in particular). It's hard for me to become immersed in an album if I'm rolling my eyes or shaking my head during half of the run time. If there were more memorable melodies to match the dissonance then I could see myself enjoying it more but there's just not much to grab onto for me. None of this is to say that I don't respect her ability as a musician or her talent for creating an atmosphere. It's just not an atmosphere that I want to be in regularly.… Expand
  4. DarcenBrandt
    May 1, 2020
    1
    How on this earth does this rate a 10? Absolutely horrible album. Sounds like someone strangling a goat. Theres got to be at least one song to grab you and keep you interested till you catch up with the rest. Anyone who rates this higher than a 3 is a hipster! The uglier something is the more they like it. Well at least till lots of people start liking it and than its not to the nextHow on this earth does this rate a 10? Absolutely horrible album. Sounds like someone strangling a goat. Theres got to be at least one song to grab you and keep you interested till you catch up with the rest. Anyone who rates this higher than a 3 is a hipster! The uglier something is the more they like it. Well at least till lots of people start liking it and than its not to the next terrible album. You lot need to get your ears and head checked. Even the cover and title are horrible. I'm giving it a 1 because I can understand some of the words at least.… Expand
  5. BBlake
    Apr 17, 2020
    3
    Meh. It's good if you're already a fan of Fiona Apple. Unlikely to convince you if you're not.
  6. Mtaeuso
    Jun 16, 2020
    10
    if you don't like this album, you don't like music.
    (or you're too dumb to understand it)
  7. Lucid_Icarus
    Jul 7, 2020
    8
    Anyone rating low didn't finish the album or can't comprehend human emotion.
  8. musicwizard636
    Jul 4, 2020
    10
    It's about SONGWRITING. There are so many sharp hooks that multiple songs stick with you for months afterward. The Fiona we've known for decades is still here, with her magnificent, nearly poetic lyricism, sharp tongue, and legendary piano-playing. She yields a new set of weapons with this batch of tracks however; a raw, tactile sense of production.
  9. Danielle22
    Jun 26, 2020
    10
    Best I have ever heard. Amazing. So many layers and gets better and better over time. Learned you need good headphones to capture the nuances of the music. Amazing.
  10. VenusAsABoy11
    Jul 27, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fiona apple knows how to make music and has not shown it again in her most recent album fetch the bolt cutters which takes us to an incredible experience within the apple world giving us a raw and deep lyric maybe this is her best album so far.… Expand
  11. Heavy-Balloon
    Jul 18, 2020
    10
    Extraordinary Machine helped “Free Fiona.” Idler Wheel got closer. Fetch The Bolt Cutters, she unapologetically frees herself! And there is nothing more inspiring and soul reaching than authenticity! She nails this not only on a personal level, but on a professional level, raising every damn bar possible! Tidal changed my life, as did Fiona Apple and each of her subsequent albumsExtraordinary Machine helped “Free Fiona.” Idler Wheel got closer. Fetch The Bolt Cutters, she unapologetically frees herself! And there is nothing more inspiring and soul reaching than authenticity! She nails this not only on a personal level, but on a professional level, raising every damn bar possible! Tidal changed my life, as did Fiona Apple and each of her subsequent albums throughout numerous seasons of my life. Through her strength, advocacy, struggles, growth, courage and, of course, music, she saved me...as a woman and human. More than once. Fiona Apple reaches the depth of her soul with every lyric, song and album. I hope she knows she reaches the depths of her fans’ souls equally so. I hope feels the inexplicable energy she puts out into this universe. 10. Fetch The Bolt Cutters, 10. Fiona Apple’s musical, lyrical and personal freedom pouring from this album, 10. Crushing musical boundaries and social norms, 10. For women and humans, 10. Dropping out of the Relay, 10. Fiona Apple, 10.… Expand
  12. Brayanol
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    Album of The year! Fiona DID that! Newspapper, Shameika, Relay and Heavy Balloon
  13. Eupedrokas
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Only perfect......................... .........................................................… Expand
  14. dalilita
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Best album of 2020, a sound revolution with the most wonderful lyrics. Fiona Apple once again proves herself to be an artist for the ages… Expand
  15. inconexo
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    Excelente album, con mucha razón es el mejor disco en criticas, y también por eso muchos comentarios negativos aquí de gentuza envidiosa y sin buen gusto. Sin duda uno de los mejores albums de todos los tiempos.
  16. GatinConPeter
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    Perfeito incrível espetacular aclamadissimo memorável esse álbum é simplesmente incrível merece muito o AOTY esse ano isso se o Grammy não criar uma categoria especial pra esse ano especial
  17. alxmsn
    Jul 1, 2020
    7
    I'm not too sure what to think of this album. My overall impression is positive, as the album has its moments, but at times it's all a bit too mad for me. Fiona is clearly very talented and creative, but occasionally she just seems to try too hard.
  18. ronissanti
    Aug 29, 2020
    10
    Álbum bem ressoado vocalmente, sua interpretação é máxima. Liríca complexa e criativa; Destaco I want you to love me que é abertura estoante junto com Relay pelo fundo ofegante e Ladies pela letra interpretada.
  19. Jesusddiaz
    Aug 31, 2020
    10
    La gente que dice que este album solo te puede gustar si te gusta Fiona Apple, estaaan bien? Mor por este álbum me gusta Fiona Apple, por este álbum no puedo odiarte, 2020.
  20. Max_Vito
    Nov 1, 2020
    0
    It baffles me that this album currently has a near perfect score on metacritic. A couple of my friends were raving about it and urged me to listen to it so I gave it a chance. I was excited to hear it because of its near universal acclaim...but I honestly thought it sounded like hot garbage. It was a chore to get through and I found myself being relieved when each song was finally over.It baffles me that this album currently has a near perfect score on metacritic. A couple of my friends were raving about it and urged me to listen to it so I gave it a chance. I was excited to hear it because of its near universal acclaim...but I honestly thought it sounded like hot garbage. It was a chore to get through and I found myself being relieved when each song was finally over. I'm pretty open-minded about music but I just couldn't find much to appreciate here. I get this odd feeling about it... It's like what am I missing? I listen to good music, right? Right?! Why does everyone love this album so much and why do I loathe it so much? I am happy that people like it, but if/when someone tells me how great this album is I am going to forever be suspicious of that person. The lyrics and themes might be good. Challenging. Important... But the music itself didn't do it for me. I don't care for her voice, either. To me this album is way over-hyped but hey what do I know? People really seem to dig this album. I'm just not one of those people… Expand
  21. LISANDRO3105
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    Ha sido un larga espera desde su último álbum, pero definitivamente valió la pena.
    Fiona ha madurado en su producción, su composición, sus letras y, por sobre todo, en el uso (y abuso) de su increíble voz.
    Entiendo que algunos puedan valorar este disco con una puntuación de 6 o 7 puntos, para mí definitivamente es un 10. Lo que realmente es inentendible es quien puntúa con 0, 1 o 2.    Ha sido un larga espera desde su último álbum, pero definitivamente valió la pena.
    Fiona ha madurado en su producción, su composición, sus letras y, por sobre todo, en el uso (y abuso) de su increíble voz.
    Entiendo que algunos puedan valorar este disco con una puntuación de 6 o 7 puntos, para mí definitivamente es un 10. Lo que realmente es inentendible es quien puntúa con 0, 1 o 2. Realmente merece dejar de lado esas puntuaciones para obtener el promedio sin distorsiones.    … Expand
  22. hellokittypie
    Sep 3, 2020
    10
    Perfect! Iconic! Amazing! Acclaimed! Memorable! Through instruments and lyricals, Fiona was able to understand human emotion in a simple and real way!
  23. oldcardigan
    Jul 25, 2020
    10
    uma obra de arte que vai ganhar muitos grammys. a fiona foi MUITO perspicaz aqui
  24. panzcoolg
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    APPLE, YET AGAIN, EXCELS IN WHAT SHE DOES BEST: CONVEYING EMOTION TO THE LISTENER USING WHATEVER MEANS POSSIBLE.
  25. clouds_darkness
    May 24, 2020
    10
    Fiona got herself a new fan. Every song stands great on its own. the hype is real
  26. Hmmmm97
    May 28, 2020
    10
    PERFECT
    AOTY
    ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
  27. TaipeiJoey
    May 31, 2020
    10
    Okay so i dismissed this album as some critic-pandering album that just wasn't for me. Then I actually listened to it. It wasn't that.
  28. OSailor
    Jun 8, 2020
    10
    On the first listen, I was excited by all the different sounds I was hearing. Now, fifty or so listens later, it's catchy, it's clever, and it manages to stay fresh.
  29. Archellarchell
    May 29, 2020
    10
    The way Fiona writes lyrics that shocks you to the core! Amazing storytelling was being put out to this record. I wasn’t a Fiona fan until this day that I discovered this album. The hook really captivates me as a listener, the way the song is naturally balanced lyrically and instrumentally the way I can explain this is a chef’s kiss. The structure of each song were really astonishing toThe way Fiona writes lyrics that shocks you to the core! Amazing storytelling was being put out to this record. I wasn’t a Fiona fan until this day that I discovered this album. The hook really captivates me as a listener, the way the song is naturally balanced lyrically and instrumentally the way I can explain this is a chef’s kiss. The structure of each song were really astonishing to the fact that you’ll be driven by the song itself—it is not just a typical song where the structure is general. The piano on the “I Want You To Love Me” really captivates me, the song itself is a classic to me. The raw vocals really shows how vulnerable the singer is especially through the themes of the lyrics that tackles sexual assault and so on and so forth. Overall, it’s amazing.… Expand
  30. atanganeli
    Sep 1, 2020
    4
    I don't understand why they think it's the biggest album of the year, songs with lyrics and repetitive sounds on all 13 tracks are the best songs of the year?
    The album is cool and I think it is one of the best of Fiona Apple but I don't think "Fetch the Bolt Cutters" is a totally cohesive album. It sounds kind of tiring when I reach the thirteenth track since all the songs have the same sounds.
  31. Cesargalindo
    May 29, 2020
    10
    It’s a masterpiece, it reflects what Fiona is...one of the greatest artist of our time
  32. vihsf
    May 30, 2020
    10
    Brilliant!!!
    With unique instrumentals, Fiona Apple brings to our ears the best album of the year.
  33. Vancyon
    Jul 24, 2020
    10
    the power that that has, the intelligence that that has, the clearance that that has, the access that that has, the influence that that has, the profile that that has, the international implications that that has
  34. Fnn
    Jun 3, 2020
    9
    It gets better with every listen. My second favourite Fiona album behind When The Pawn. The production is great and some of the best songwriting of her career. Sone tracks are a bit to log but apart from that it’s pretty much perfect.
  35. PlutoAsABoy
    Jul 3, 2020
    10
    I love the upgrade, now she's angry not only at her lovers, but at every single men on earth
  36. whoisalcebiades
    May 29, 2020
    10
    it is certainly one of the best albums of the year, thanks for this work of art fiona apple.
  37. sulli
    May 21, 2020
    10
    the queen of music!! the greatest THE GREATEST SONGWRITER ALIVE OR DEAD SHE IS THE MOMENT
  38. GabOfHis
    May 29, 2020
    10
    this is literally the best album ever by the most amazing artist ever!
    change it back to 100 cowards!!!
  39. br0kenmanu
    Jul 8, 2020
    10
    el álbum siempre mantiene un sonido constante, no hace que pienses que estás escuchando diferentes álbumes, pero implementa ritmos, sonidos y géneros diferentes, lo cual hace que no te quedes dormido. vocales excelentes, te hacen sentir en casa pero en una en medio de la naturaleza, donde lo único que puedes hacer ahí es vivir tu día a día cantando con tus perros y amando estar vivo.
  40. Romber19
    May 23, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Este disco es totalmente hermoso, tiene mucho poder y sus ritmos prueban la obra maestra que es.… Expand
  41. GeraltGreyjoy
    May 24, 2020
    10
    Perfeito, coeso e maravilhosa Fionna se superando cada vez mais com esse álbum PERFEITO
  42. LlauchaConCafe
    Jul 6, 2020
    10
    Un trabajo que no teme mostrar la faceta creativa de Fiona Apple, entretenido de inicio a fin y con gran calidad, este álbum es de lo mejor que hay en pleno 2020.
  43. ponyostarfish
    May 1, 2020
    10
    FTBC is a radical reaction to all that is fake: autotune, glossy Instagram lives, unauthentic lyrics. This album has none of that. Fiona gives us a zero-bs approach to music, taking things even further than what she had done with "The Idler Wheel...". A raw, gritty masterpiece that is not only unafraid of its flaws, but builds on them, rises above them.
  44. nandolopes16
    May 27, 2020
    10
    Uma lenda vivaaaaa!! Devolvam o 100 dela metacritic e apague os comentários de propósito desses haters.
  45. CharlieGray
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is easily the best album of the year, I don’t know what could possibly top it
  46. Asumberger
    Aug 7, 2020
    1
    It baffles me that this album currently has a near perfect score on metacritic. A couple of my friends were raving about it and urged me to listen to it so I gave it a chance. I was excited to hear it because of its near universal acclaim...but I honestly thought it sounded like hot garbage. It was a chore to get through and I found myself being relieved when each song was finally over.It baffles me that this album currently has a near perfect score on metacritic. A couple of my friends were raving about it and urged me to listen to it so I gave it a chance. I was excited to hear it because of its near universal acclaim...but I honestly thought it sounded like hot garbage. It was a chore to get through and I found myself being relieved when each song was finally over. I'm pretty open-minded about music but I just couldn't find much to appreciate here. I get this odd feeling about it... It's like what am I missing? I listen to good music, right? Right?! Why does everyone love this album so much and why do I loathe it so much? I am happy that people like it, but if/when someone tells me how great this album is I am going to forever be suspicious of that person. The lyrics and themes might be good. Challenging. Important... But the music itself didn't do it for me. I don't care for her voice, either. To me this album is way over-hyped but hey what do I know? People really seem to dig this album. I'm just not one of those people.… Expand
  47. pastorman
    May 2, 2020
    3
    I have enjoyed the early releases by Fiona Apple but this release did nothing for me. No emotional connection, no earworms, no groove to nod my head to. I just didn't grab my ears.
  48. tiego
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fetch The Bolt Cutters is a masterpiece. No one can express feelings and emotions like Fiona Apple. One of the greatest songwriters of our generation. Absolutely outstanding!!
  49. A23llie
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Incredible from the jump, with “I want you to love me,” she sings, “I know none of this will matter in the long run / But I know a sound is still a sound around no one.” And the album never falters. It’s strong, unique, introspective and cathartic all the way through.… Expand
  50. jughck
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    What a **** great start for a new decade of music!! Fetch the Bolt Cutters was indeed worth the wait!!
  51. cngomez
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    An amazing piece of art. The production here is what sets this album apart from her others, she really shines in her home studio, you can tell how comfortable she is singing these fierce, unabashed lyrics, using her voice as her strongest instrument. This album is so unique, authentic, and powerful. 10/10
  52. Onthebound
    Apr 21, 2020
    10
    An artist unleashed. It's Fiona Apple, we can't expect anything less. Unconventional and raw. Art at its finest.
  53. Enriquecasas
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Excelente, Fiona siempre ha hecho de su vida arte y este no fue la excepción
  54. sashafiona
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona Apple finally made an album that is "the sound of somebody who has broken out a little bit. Who’s breaking the windows and the doors in order to get some air. Instead of the person who’s just walking into their own fog of their own perfume, smelling the same thing over and over again." The growth from her more iconic and relatable songs into a specific, personal piece makes me smileFiona Apple finally made an album that is "the sound of somebody who has broken out a little bit. Who’s breaking the windows and the doors in order to get some air. Instead of the person who’s just walking into their own fog of their own perfume, smelling the same thing over and over again." The growth from her more iconic and relatable songs into a specific, personal piece makes me smile during every song, no matter how rough the topic. I understand the movement from The Idler Wheel... to this, and the 8 years of growth explain the creativity and change embodied in this album. AND it shreds. Miss Apple I love your dolphin noises.… Expand
  55. PretentiousGeek
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Such a thrilling evolution of The Idler Wheel's sounds with a pen as sharp as ever and a constantly charming sense of playful inventiveness. I don't think I can quite pin down how exactly I feel about this. Wow.
  56. aaaai
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The eight-year wait was absolutely worth it - Fiona's brilliant songwriting shines through on every single track on the album. It's so far removed from what conventional 'music' in 2020 sounds - her music and lyrics demand attention, and are so uniquely hers. By far the best album of the decade thus far.
  57. don-nik
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Wow this album... It's do different yet exactly something you'd expect from Fiona. The charm that the self produced sounds creates, all the goofy gimmicks, the funky and experimental drum and bass, the repetitions of lines and the story telling lyrics. I'm in love with everything
  58. Lgrew
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It was amazing and breathtaking. Everybody moved!!!! Everybody said something!!!!!!
  59. bensardonic
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Musically this album is a stunning, unsettling tour-de-force. If you're willing to be challenged, and to truly immerse yourself, you will be rewarded. It is not background music; it demands more and deserves it.
  60. abkman
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona unbound, wild, and let loose. And she is here to save us. Bow down. Thank you Fiona.
  61. rykketid
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    my mom gave me life but Fiona Apple gave me a reason to live with this album.

    Fiona Apple's fifth record is unbound, a wild style symphony of the everyday, an unyielding masterpiece. I don't really know how to articulate what this woman means to me, nor what she makes me feel but I'm so happy rn that she's back and with an album this great that's being rightfully appreciated and been    my mom gave me life but Fiona Apple gave me a reason to live with this album.

    Fiona Apple's fifth record is unbound, a wild style symphony of the everyday, an unyielding masterpiece. I don't really know how to articulate what this woman means to me, nor what she makes me feel but I'm so happy rn that she's back and with an album this great that's being rightfully appreciated and been received with such critical acclaim –which I know she almost certainly doesn't give a sh*t about– but it only feels right that this is happening to her. To her specifically because she's always said F*CK YOU' to the puppetry and whoring expected of women in music; she's an alchemist making music and living life without the accoutrements people believe define stardom. After years of praying, my god has finally provided me and she's never once let down. I don't know how she does it but she's a mad genius, she pushed her own boundaries while maintaining the Fiona Apple signature sound we fell in love with. This is both timely and timeless. The bolt cutters have been fetched.    … Expand
  62. HellMotel
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I have been a fan for years but frankly, this album is one of the best I have ever head. An absolute gem of an album by one of the greatest songwriters still living.
  63. platemiy
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I guess we have the best album of 20-s already in the beginning of decade, just mesmerizing
  64. matthewmirliani
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    Not sure how to properly describe the magic touch of this album - it’s not always the easiest listen in some parts, but there’s a magnetism about it, a hypnotic element that draws you back in. Along with its sheer ambition and the emotions that underly it, the album impresses with the richness of its sounds - Broadway-esque piano riffs; soulful choruses; folksy drumbeats; a poetic, jazzyNot sure how to properly describe the magic touch of this album - it’s not always the easiest listen in some parts, but there’s a magnetism about it, a hypnotic element that draws you back in. Along with its sheer ambition and the emotions that underly it, the album impresses with the richness of its sounds - Broadway-esque piano riffs; soulful choruses; folksy drumbeats; a poetic, jazzy coffeehouse aura; notes of Bjork’s softer cuts and Stevie Nick’s powerhouse raspiness. Standouts include the title track, Newspaper, Ladies, and Heavy Balloon.… Expand
  65. Thonny
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Epic and beautiful album, it's maybe her best. The way she use her voice like an instrument it's really incredible and the melodies are really catchy but at the same time very experimental. The lyrics are the best, the way she takes ur hands and shows u sorority and love for her pets, it's to far for me a escape from the violent world when we live.
  66. Rafapixelado
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I can't even remember the last openin track that sounds too good as "I want you to love me", she shares with us the perfection of trying to be non perfect in a track. In the second one, she came with a type of progressive rock/alternative beat, that came inside my brain like an storm, the next, I doen't need to tell but i wanna... perfection
  67. Jbark
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    One of the best lyricists in the game at her most sonically adventurous (and that’s an understatement). An earlier review argues that Fetch the Bolt Cutters lacks ‘any consistent melodies, hooks or instrumental convergences’. Give it more time. They’ll start finding you after the second or third listen - you need to let this one decant and open up - and before you know it, you’ll findOne of the best lyricists in the game at her most sonically adventurous (and that’s an understatement). An earlier review argues that Fetch the Bolt Cutters lacks ‘any consistent melodies, hooks or instrumental convergences’. Give it more time. They’ll start finding you after the second or third listen - you need to let this one decant and open up - and before you know it, you’ll find yourself singing on of the mantra-like phrasings throughout the album. The songs may sound unfinished or rough to an unfamiliar ear, but Apple has dressed them in the clippings of life, like old standards chanted around a campfire. It’s as present and evocative as anything I’ve heard in a long time. And the words, my god. She’s clearly been an insightful observer of humans and their eternal BS since childhood. Rarely do you find a musical genius who can also write such snappy damn lines. 10/10.… Expand
  68. ekolite82
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Easiest 10 I ever gave. An thrilling album that never lets go. It’s the only album I have heard in the last 20 years than I could say dethrones my all time favorite album ever. Sublime.
  69. thepowerout_
    Apr 23, 2020
    10
    Because so many reviewers have called out all the strengths of this release, I thought it would be fun to go through some of the more asinine and truly senseless "reviews", since there really are so many that display what makes this album one of the strongest of the year so far--

    The majority of "0-1" scores are accounts who signed up solely to give this album that obscenely low rating    Because so many reviewers have called out all the strengths of this release, I thought it would be fun to go through some of the more asinine and truly senseless "reviews", since there really are so many that display what makes this album one of the strongest of the year so far--

    The majority of "0-1" scores are accounts who signed up solely to give this album that obscenely low rating for someone who sings without autotune and masterfully plays their own instrumentation. At the very least, that calls for a 3 if using sound judgement.

    Putsman - Rating: 1 (no other reviews) - "Doesn’t sound like anything I’d want to listen to again after one go." So you willfully admit to listening to it once (and 95% sure you skimmed). Nice. Thanks for typing that out.

    ravenvenom - Rating: 1 - "Original, that’s for sure." "Don’t mistake originality for genius." Originality gets a 1, that makes sense, totally. But dont worry, they gave the past three Madonna releases all 10's. So they definitely have an understanding of both originality and "genius."

    JesseBarre - Rating: 0 - "feminist anthems that act as if women who willingly utilize their sexuality to get ahead & become plutocrats in Beverly Hills who have the ability to destroy any man they wants lives with a single tweet." This drama queen sounds like he had a bad relationship once. But Jesse gives Big Sean a 10 due to "quirky wordplay." k!

    liscarta - Rating: 0 (no other reviews) - "It sounds like a podcast." Can you recommend some to me? Those sound dope.    … Expand
  70. vavavavaugusto
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    meu deus fiona vc se superou nesse, expressa a raiva e a insatisfação e ao mesmo tempo a neutralidade que eu sinto todos os dias muito obrigado pelo seu álbum
  71. lilthief
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    album is just Brilliant instant classic, best album of 2020 by far!!! would love to here more songs on a deluxe version.
  72. DannyWavey
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    I was captivated by the first song, fetch the bolt cutters sounds like the most beautiful cry for freedom, it’s been 8 years and Fiona Apple is free once again.
  73. Meggie
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Amazing! A true artist and just what we needed during this difficult time. Bravo!
  74. sagebrushfire
    Apr 21, 2020
    10
    This album has an abundance of things to appreciate: experimental/raw sounds, methodical editing choices, a mix of narrative perspectives and thick, layered lyricism. If "Idler Wheel..." was a foray into challenging the status quo of popular music then "Fetch The Bolt Cutters" is the flagship of an all-out war on radio-friendly music. It is clear that every beat of this album is carefullyThis album has an abundance of things to appreciate: experimental/raw sounds, methodical editing choices, a mix of narrative perspectives and thick, layered lyricism. If "Idler Wheel..." was a foray into challenging the status quo of popular music then "Fetch The Bolt Cutters" is the flagship of an all-out war on radio-friendly music. It is clear that every beat of this album is carefully crafted and yet the recordings and instrumental choices feel raw and improvised in parts. Rather than sanitize every track for radio Fiona chose to leverage every imperfection for effect. A lot of people are upset about the "lack of melodies" but I suspect they are just expecting an album that is immediately accessible and stuffed with mindless tracks with the same 2-3 tired chord progressions that have been dragging pop music along like an expired pet caught in a wheel well for the past 20-30 years. "Fetch the Bolt Cutters" is not necessarily an album that grabs you on the first listen because it can be very chaotic and disarming. That being said it's not an album that tricks you into accepting it with repeated listens by way of Stockholm syndrome—once you have some time to absorb the lyrical content and identify the different layers of sound you can appreciate the album for its merits and not just because the overused "hooks" are worming their way into your brain—there are no cloyingly sweet pop paradigms to choke on here. "Fetch The Bolt Cutters" is unapologetically creative; it has a hand stretched out ready to comfort you but doesn't need your sympathy or care about your criticism either. The weakest tracks on this album are still interesting enough to make most of what's being pumped out by big artists look like embarrassing schlock and that's merit enough for a perfect score from me.… Expand
  75. pleasa
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Shameika said she had potential and shameika was damn right, loved the record and love fiona.
  76. pedrohenrick
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Fiona exala excelência, suas composições sabem exatamente onde e como tocar no coração de quem ouve (destaque para Newspaper, Heavy Balloon e Shameika); seu jeito único de interpreta-las só acentua isso. Obrigado Fiona, me sinto tão abençoado que faz valer a pena esses 8 anos de espera!… Expand
  77. badboyleleo
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    A única coisa que eu posso dizer é que Shameika tinha razão. O resto é só pra bater o limite de carácteres.
  78. ASTURK
    May 20, 2020
    9
    Maybe Fetch The Bolt Cutters not perfect for emotional connections but this album has variation this makes Fetch The Bolt Cutters special album, even she yells it sounds great, Fetch The Bolt Cutters is a masterpiece.
    95/100
  79. Lazlo1
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    Si te gusta Fiona Apple, este álbum te va a gustar. Pero si no eres fan de esta artista, posiblemente te termine cansando y hasta pareciendo aburrido. No puedo entender cómo tiene tantas críticas positivas, pero sin duda sí que puedo entender por qué las pocas ventas que ha logrado cosechar tanto en Estados Unidos como en el resto del mundo. Decepcionante.
  80. bushyforest
    Oct 23, 2020
    0
    I gave it a try but just couldn't even finish listening. Maybe it's just not my taste.
  81. FIghtDucksFIght
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I'd like to think i have pretty diverse taste. One constant over the past 25 years from age 10 to present day has been to various works of Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails). While other brilliant artists have a streak of quality albums over this quarter century, the only artist I can think of that has created such bold evolutions to their style is Fiona Apple. Tidal really impressed me in aI'd like to think i have pretty diverse taste. One constant over the past 25 years from age 10 to present day has been to various works of Trent Reznor (Nine Inch Nails). While other brilliant artists have a streak of quality albums over this quarter century, the only artist I can think of that has created such bold evolutions to their style is Fiona Apple. Tidal really impressed me in a way that no other singer-songwriter had at the age of 12. Only a few trip hop albums were even in the same universe. FINLLLY 1999 came around and I partied like all 16 year old children shouldn't. My favorite artists brought my favorite albums; The Fragile and When The Pawn.... The Fragile remains. I write this after three listens but friggin (#*WUR(@# this is so good. I am not biased on this genius. Extraordinary Machine was great, Idler Wheel was greater. It's already pretty clear that Fetch The Bolt Cutters is Fiona at her absolute best. The syncopation and sudden shifts of pace shouldn't feel like anything new to fans of her past work. I'd have to agree with a reviewer from earlier this evening that this is the best album of the decade so far; and one of the very best of the past 10.46 years as well. So damn amazing.… Expand
  82. mjelbam
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    this is literally perfect. one for the ages. it's such a total testament to fiona apple's qualities as a songwriter, as a performer, and a s a genuinely brilliant writer. you feel every single second of this.
  83. jude5420
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    A masterpiece of surreal feminism. Chaotic, eruptive, brash, indicting, and wholly self reliant. It feels like watching a great master paint violently into the night, unaware that she is being watched. And Apple is standing alone, as these songs dip and dive, collapse and then rise again along a tripwire of purrs, barks, moans, screeches, clanks and coos. It’s like nothing I’ve ever heardA masterpiece of surreal feminism. Chaotic, eruptive, brash, indicting, and wholly self reliant. It feels like watching a great master paint violently into the night, unaware that she is being watched. And Apple is standing alone, as these songs dip and dive, collapse and then rise again along a tripwire of purrs, barks, moans, screeches, clanks and coos. It’s like nothing I’ve ever heard before and yet she retains structure, technique and melody effortlessly. This is her fifth album in a row of extraordinary work. I’m inspired to work harder as a artist, and I will listen to this as I paint in my own studio. Thank you, again, FA.....simply brilliant work.… Expand
  84. lukascabahug
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona makes music that exposes truth, pretty or ugly. Every moment of this record hits heartstrings just as hard as its drums hits on each quaking beat. The lyricism is just as personal as her raw, riveting voice, so compelling it could contend with the greatest of poets. I've given this album a few listens and it has already cemented itself in my mind as one of the greatest albums of thisFiona makes music that exposes truth, pretty or ugly. Every moment of this record hits heartstrings just as hard as its drums hits on each quaking beat. The lyricism is just as personal as her raw, riveting voice, so compelling it could contend with the greatest of poets. I've given this album a few listens and it has already cemented itself in my mind as one of the greatest albums of this century.… Expand
  85. Agus-arg
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fantastic album. Really potent lyrics combined with unique and interesting instrumentals that make it one her best works. Every song hits, and has something to say.
  86. juanmanueltorov
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona has mastered her abilities in this album, you can feel how she put together ideas from her previous works and put them together with even more feeling and compromise, being involved in the production of this album makes it so personal. She has a statement and she's not afraid to shout it out loud for everyone to hear it, she literally fetch the colt butters and use them to fightFiona has mastered her abilities in this album, you can feel how she put together ideas from her previous works and put them together with even more feeling and compromise, being involved in the production of this album makes it so personal. She has a statement and she's not afraid to shout it out loud for everyone to hear it, she literally fetch the colt butters and use them to fight against the patriarchy. A lot of palpable influence from another great artists like Kate bush and Patty Smith. Such a masterpiece.… Expand
  87. dess211925
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It's is exactly what I was expecting from her.
    Reminds me of The Idler Wheel
  88. igorarnaud
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It's raw, it's unique, it's powerful, it's everything Fiona always was, but elevated, matured, refined. The lyrics are very particular to her experience and at the same time extremely universal. It's an album that demands attention. It's not easy, but it's necessary and it feels GOOD!
  89. pedrorider
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The best songwriter just made an amazing percussion-heavy, raw masterpiece. 8 years waiting and it was worth it.
  90. Ieavegetout
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fantastic album. Experimental, wild, outspoken, and feisty. I'm in love. If she's gonna keep making music this good, I'm okay with waiting 8 years for new music.
  91. mjfan010
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    This is such a great album, an instant classic. Great production, great lyrics, and great performance from Fiona on the whole record, just excellence. The production and her voice can go from sweet to insane in a heartbeat and the things she's talking about here shes doing it with such soul and in such a theatrically way that it feels like you listening to a play with amazing performances.
  92. yayo808
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    I did not know this girl but listen to her music and in sound it is an art, I can call that what is truly music, good work girl the album of the year so far
  93. BaukeTheMan
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Oh my.. this is the one i didn't know i was waiting for!! Never heard of Fiona Apple before but after hearing this absolute masterpiece i have become a fan instantly. Already easily one of the best albums of the year!
  94. draftword800379
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Extremely well executed ideas, every song is meaningful and has intent. Visceral, unguarded emotion, intricate lyrics and production. Another masterpiece in Fiona Apple’s catalog, possibly even her best project. Well worth all the overwhelmingly cordial praise.
  95. applerer
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Queen is what you can call her. This woman keeps on bring in it to the table.
  96. 26corzo
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    muy hermoso, delicioso, genial album, para todos los oidos, definitivamente este es el album del año!
  97. hotknife
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Truly breathtaking and unique. I cried, laughed, danced and cried again. Every song really captivates an universal feeling while telling a story in a beautiful stunning way. Just like only Fiona could.
  98. tixlot
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Another great album from Fiona Apple. This is a piece of art. It sounds even rawer than The Idler Wheel, very harmonic and experimental.
  99. Musicfreak
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    No one could make an album like this except Fiona Apple, it’s art rock meets jazz with a little hip hop. A very unique and experimental piece of art. It’s good to see her having a breakthrough again.
  100. mrlucbra
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona is proving, onde again, that she is the greatest songwriter os the past 25 years.
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Awards & Rankings

1
#1 Best Album of 2020
18
#18 Most Discussed Album of 2020

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
98

Universal acclaim - based on 28 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 28 out of 28
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 28
  3. Negative: 0 out of 28
  1. Under The Radar
    Aug 18, 2020
    85
    Guttural, soft, cacophonous, and poetic, Fetch the Bolt Cutters is a reminder of Apple’s genius and that we are all interconnected, one people, existing in a pulse.
    Read full review
  2. Classic Rock Magazine
    Jul 6, 2020
    80
    Forget the bolt cutters, Apple's already shed her last shackle. [Summer 2020, p.87]
  3. Uncut
    May 22, 2020
    90
    Fetch The Bolt Cutters is mostly the soundtrack of liberation, not recrimination, with Apple's piano keys, battering on the walls and barking dogs as its percussive, beating heart. [Jul 2020, p.27]
See all critic reviews »