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. normanfrockweII
    Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Fetch the Bolt cutters i’ve been in here too long MASTERPIECE fiona will never disappoint me i love every thing shes doing
  2. custodiotiago86
    Sep 4, 2023
    10
    Fiona Apple's 'Fetch the Bolt Cutters' is a true masterpiece that emerges once in a blue moon. This album is nothing short of a revelation, boldly stretching the boundaries of musical artistry with its raw and unapologetic authenticity. From its unconventional instrumentals to its fearless exploration of lyrics, it's an extraordinary gem that will unquestionably withstand the test of time.Fiona Apple's 'Fetch the Bolt Cutters' is a true masterpiece that emerges once in a blue moon. This album is nothing short of a revelation, boldly stretching the boundaries of musical artistry with its raw and unapologetic authenticity. From its unconventional instrumentals to its fearless exploration of lyrics, it's an extraordinary gem that will unquestionably withstand the test of time. It's a genuine work of art that unequivocally merits a flawless 10.… Expand
  3. Neshelie
    Aug 20, 2023
    3
    It's a good album, but it's not for me. Although I didn't get bored while listening to the album in general, I wished the album to end as soon as possible. If I listen to it again in the future, maybe it will be for me with that mindset.
  4. nami2
    Jun 21, 2023
    10
    I have a lot to say about this album. From the opening song, Fiona Apple had me hooked. Fetch The Bolt Cutters came at a time where we were all locked up at home and wanting to escape, and it came as a bold statement from one of music's most reclusive pop stars but also one its loudest and least afraid voices. The different influences on this album, from the rock to electropop to theI have a lot to say about this album. From the opening song, Fiona Apple had me hooked. Fetch The Bolt Cutters came at a time where we were all locked up at home and wanting to escape, and it came as a bold statement from one of music's most reclusive pop stars but also one its loudest and least afraid voices. The different influences on this album, from the rock to electropop to the "bedroom pop"-esque nature of it being recorded in Apple's house, and the overall industrial and artpop sound of the album, Fetch The Bolt Cutters is a grand statement, a statement of a woman who has had enough of everything holding her down and is encouraging us to fetch our own proverbial bolt cutters and cut ourselves out of whatever **** box we let ourselves get in. The entire album has an aura of strength and empowerment from Shameika and standing up to bullies to Under The Table and refusing to be quiet at a dinner table for the sake of everyone else's comfort and the bold For Her, Fiona Apple made a truly visceral piece of work.
    One element that makes the album shine is Apple's unique use of instrumentation and the recording methods itself. Apple said she used GarageBand to make part of the record, a software she is unfamiliar with, and that it resulted in long takes being used for the album with her not being able to edit her mistakes out, but I think this worked in favour of the album, an example of this is Apple and Cara Delevigne's dogs barking on the end of Fetch The Bolt Cutters, adding to the overall theme of the song and the album of wanting to break free and escape, of not being able to be contained.
    Overall, I think Fetch The Bolt Cutters is an amazing album, and easily one of if not the best experience of music I have ever had, and Fiona Apple is truly one of the greatest musical geniuses that has graced the Earth. It is just a shame I will have to wait another 5+ years for another one of her albums, but while I do, this and the rest of her discography will be on repeat XD.    … Expand
  5. Jorgepardo
    Dec 7, 2022
    10
    It’s just the best album. It’s unbelievable how her humor moves along the whole record. She talks about some many topics in this record and the way she approach them are so particular. It’s Fiona Apple literally. Love this récord could listen all day long non stop
  6. leogarcia132002
    Nov 25, 2022
    10
    As a writer I can say that Apple is one of those indescribable and unpredictable women, this album is magical and it is the best of 2020, even one of the best of all time.
  7. Stefans43
    Nov 2, 2022
    2
    2/10 - Great art, terrible music

    Art and music is something critics do not seem to be able to differntiate. Of course, it is an important album, of course, it is authentic and daring and a fantastic expression of her emotions, but it's bad music. And it's important to differentiate between music you don't like and music that is not good - Fetch The Bolt Cutters is not good. The funniest    2/10 - Great art, terrible music

    Art and music is something critics do not seem to be able to differntiate. Of course, it is an important album, of course, it is authentic and daring and a fantastic expression of her emotions, but it's bad music. And it's important to differentiate between music you don't like and music that is not good - Fetch The Bolt Cutters is not good.

    The funniest thing about all this is that Pitchfork gave Fetchi the Bolt Cutters a 10/10 and Travistan a 0/10 and they sound exactly the same, especially if you remove the artist from the art. Travis is rapping/talking over weird arhytmic sounds and so is Fiona, but Fiona's rumbling is more menaingful and authentic. Both albums are terrible music, but Fiona's is better art.

    This begs to ask the question: Are the critics reviewing music for the public or for art students with bowl cuts who need to do dislike whatever is mainstream?    … Expand
  8. Ndrwdvdbrsn
    Oct 9, 2022
    10
    Fiona Apple's latest album, Fetch the Bolt Cutters is one of the greatest alt-rock albums ever. Shameika has some of the greatest vocals of all time making it an incredible rock song.
  9. Jackson889
    Sep 24, 2022
    6
    Definitely not one of my favorite albums and I find the album artwork to be a little weird. Its far from being unlistenable and perfect coffee table music.
  10. aleom_hx
    Sep 18, 2022
    10
    9.8/10
    Only Fiona Apple can only use the call of the cats and dogs, the sound sent by the bench, a piano and a long string of sighs to write a song.
  11. oNewYorker
    Sep 16, 2022
    9
    You might not like the songs, but you do have to agree that this album is one of her best.
  12. diluteacid
    Aug 22, 2022
    6
    Didn’t quite understand the complex nature. She doesn’t quite deliver as best from previous work but still a great body of work start to finish!
  13. shad0w0711
    Aug 15, 2022
    10
    Perfect! Iconic! Amazing! Acclaimed! Memorable! Through instruments and lyricals, Fiona was able to understand human emotion in a simple and real way!
  14. After_peep08
    Jul 15, 2022
    10
    she's such an icon and this is perfect. fiona apple IS the music industry forever
  15. shadowfetch
    Jun 12, 2022
    10
    the best album of 2020, fiona managed to outdo herself with this work of art.
  16. arixsz
    May 13, 2022
    10
    Brilhante e genial. Não há espaços para o previsível, Fetch The Bolt Cutters é autêntico e um clássico instantâneo, tudo nesse álbum funciona com precisão, a única coisa que importa aqui é a música e Fiona Apple nos mostra todas as camadas que o som pode alcançar. Além disso, os sons caseiros contribuem para um projeto que se torna perfeito não por ter a intenção de ser perfeito, mas simBrilhante e genial. Não há espaços para o previsível, Fetch The Bolt Cutters é autêntico e um clássico instantâneo, tudo nesse álbum funciona com precisão, a única coisa que importa aqui é a música e Fiona Apple nos mostra todas as camadas que o som pode alcançar. Além disso, os sons caseiros contribuem para um projeto que se torna perfeito não por ter a intenção de ser perfeito, mas sim de ser um lembrete de que nós não precisamos ser como querem que sejamos, ela está nos permitindo entender que nós podemos nos livrar das algemas que nos prendem. Sem dúvidas um álbum que transborda emoções, criatividade e autenticidade e para todos os efeitos, se algo for um empencilho em seu caminho, pegue os alicates e o tire você mesmo.… Expand
  17. Thatsajokeright
    Apr 25, 2022
    8
    honeslty a beautiful album, I just never go back to it, but when I do, it's beautiful.
  18. Stavush
    Apr 12, 2022
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The lyrics and production are next-level, just pure genius. You'd think that 34 years into her career Fiona would play it safe and continue the piano-rock sound of her previous albums, but she kept being innovative and different in the perfect way. The music is very experimental and many times odd, but still catchy.… Expand
  19. badboiruru
    Mar 26, 2022
    10
    This album is lyrically incredible poetic but still brutally honest and self aware, but still enough lines to **** the patriarchy! congratulation Fiona, you done good [:
  20. cherrymusic
    Mar 19, 2022
    10
    Fiona Apple has entered the big door with her most recently album, there is certainly a word to define this album and it is "unique", the wait of almost more than 8 years has been worth it, this album has brought us a breath of fresh air to this new era of music, each song has its own personality, in addition to the fact that Fiona has managed to have a balance between the lyrics and theFiona Apple has entered the big door with her most recently album, there is certainly a word to define this album and it is "unique", the wait of almost more than 8 years has been worth it, this album has brought us a breath of fresh air to this new era of music, each song has its own personality, in addition to the fact that Fiona has managed to have a balance between the lyrics and the production, where both manage to stand out enormously, in the lyrics we can find a great maturity on the part of Fiona. In "Fetch The Bolt Cutters" she is sincere, raising her voice to express her anger, frustrations and experiences through metaphors, likewise, on some occasions being direct and without any hesitation. Sonically "Fetch The Blot Cutters" is an album without equal, which has elements of percussion, piano and strings in general. But these sonic elements are not just that, they go further, the resulting sounds arose from sounds produced by anything Fiona could imagine, from banging on the wall to a nearly unplayable piano arrangement.
    Without a doubt, Fiona has brought us the best album of her career, the album of the year and the album of the decade. She surpasses herself in every album she releases, from "Tidal" to "Fetch The Bolt Cutters" we have seen how she has advanced and matured as an artist, proof of this we have before us a genuine album.
    Top 5 Tracks: Heavy Balloon, Relay, Shameika, For Her, Drumset    … Expand
  21. pautorres
    Mar 19, 2022
    0
    I didnt like this album. Its just something unnecessary that produces no sensations in my mind
  22. LilScience
    Jan 17, 2022
    8
    Quando você pensa que 2020 eu já tinha classificado quase todos os álbuns e singles possíveis tinha esquecido de um dos mais votados 'Fetch The Bolt Cutters' de Fiona Apple, e me impressionei de como o álbum se transita em um alternativo, rock, pop; tudo bem misturado e dosado, e sem falar na originalidade de Fiona, realmente um dos melhores álbuns de longe de 2020, esse realmente meQuando você pensa que 2020 eu já tinha classificado quase todos os álbuns e singles possíveis tinha esquecido de um dos mais votados 'Fetch The Bolt Cutters' de Fiona Apple, e me impressionei de como o álbum se transita em um alternativo, rock, pop; tudo bem misturado e dosado, e sem falar na originalidade de Fiona, realmente um dos melhores álbuns de longe de 2020, esse realmente me impressionou, estou sem palavras para essa obra musical.

    Faixas favoritas: I Want You To Love Me, Shameika, Relay, Newspaper, Ladies, Heavy Balloon, For Her, Drumset.    … Expand
  23. utkarshbansal
    Nov 18, 2021
    9
    The entire album is a masterpiece, but the title track especially is underrated.
  24. fulltimepharb
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    most perfect album ever fiona apple has done it once again. the production of it is something i’ve truly never heard before which is something i find a lot in her music.
  25. Darkmorning
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    It’s a modern masterpiece and it can only be made by Fiona Apple. Love her new experiments. This is one of her best albums for sure.
  26. lwtos
    Nov 13, 2021
    10
    Its above this world! "Fetch the bolt cutters" and "Norman F*cking Rockwell" are maybe the bests albums ever.
  27. musicenjoyerrr
    Oct 9, 2021
    10
    The way every single music outlet collectively decided this was a masterpiece but the jobless fat ugly misogynists hate that it got a higher rating than their fav so they use the little power this website has given them to lower her score just for the thrill of it.
  28. plw_
    Sep 24, 2021
    4
    I don't see the hype for it. Mostly boring and not really an enjoyable project.
  29. gabriellla13
    Sep 18, 2021
    10
    I just LOVED the content in the lyrics!! Fiona you really did something here. Thanks for being in this world. My favs were Ladies, Cosmonauts and Fetch the Bolt Cutters.
  30. barbosaalvesfla
    Sep 9, 2021
    9
    Do have anything else to say? It's a practically perfect album. It's Fiona.
  31. sugarbaby3
    Jan 9, 2021
    10
    raw, emotional, and real every song every lyric every sound was crafted by an artist
  32. maximizen
    Jul 25, 2021
    10
    Original, emotional, blunt, captivating and immersive. Best album of all time.
  33. princefan1999
    Jul 4, 2021
    10
    Initially I was impressed with the free-flowing, chaotic jazz rhythms but only after two listens of the whole album did I start to really understand the hype. It’s meant to be an uncomfortable, claustrophobic listen because it is meant to match the spontaneous anxieties and insecurities in Fiona’s troubled mind. The content itself if heavy hitting as it talks about bullying, depression,Initially I was impressed with the free-flowing, chaotic jazz rhythms but only after two listens of the whole album did I start to really understand the hype. It’s meant to be an uncomfortable, claustrophobic listen because it is meant to match the spontaneous anxieties and insecurities in Fiona’s troubled mind. The content itself if heavy hitting as it talks about bullying, depression, and even how Fiona was raped as a young girl. The music relies mainly on piano and percussion, and percussion in this case being anything Fiona finds lying about the house. It pushes her to vocally be as creative as possible and to put her all into her two main instruments that it creates some unexpected rhythms.

    My advice is if you listen to this album, throw away all expectations, especially if you’ve listened to her previous work and give it two or three spins for it to really sink in. This is Art Pop, with less of the pop but a huge emphasis on the art.    … Expand
  34. Samfallows
    Jul 3, 2021
    10
    Initially I was impressed with the free-flowing, chaotic jazz rhythms but only after two listens of the whole album did I start to really understand the hype. It’s meant to be an uncomfortable, claustrophobic listen because it is meant to match the spontaneous anxieties and insecurities in Fiona’s troubled mind. The content itself if heavy hitting as it talks about bullying, depression,Initially I was impressed with the free-flowing, chaotic jazz rhythms but only after two listens of the whole album did I start to really understand the hype. It’s meant to be an uncomfortable, claustrophobic listen because it is meant to match the spontaneous anxieties and insecurities in Fiona’s troubled mind. The content itself if heavy hitting as it talks about bullying, depression, and even how Fiona was raped as a young girl. The music relies mainly on piano and percussion, and percussion in this case being anything Fiona finds lying about the house. It pushes her to vocally be as creative as possible and to put her all into her two main instruments that it creates some unexpected rhythms.

    My advice is if you listen to this album, throw away all expectations, especially if you’ve listened to her previous work and give it two or three spins for it to really sink in. This is Art Pop, with less of the pop but a huge emphasis on the art.    … Expand
  35. finnster04
    Jun 16, 2021
    10
    A fantastically enjoyable and interesting album the whole way through. I can listen to it endlessly and never get bored.
  36. GamePlayer77
    May 25, 2021
    9
    Fiona Apple's pandemic project, filled with new alternative takes on her musical style has left me feeling great and refreshed.

    FAV TRACK: Rack of His
    LEAST FAV TRACK: On I Go
  37. xbluefairytale
    May 18, 2021
    10
    This album is definitely a grower. I didn't like it at first, but now I'm listening at least once a week. It's innovative, original and completely out of the box. It might not be appealing to everyone
  38. WheresTheGay
    May 18, 2021
    10
    Wow, I was wary at first but now this album is all I think about. Unconventional and wise. Fiona Apple at her best.
  39. DonkeyKing
    May 1, 2021
    4
    Very experimental kind of music

    It's very difficult to describe this album. I didn't have any kind of emotional connection to this kind of music and some tracks seemed a little awkward, detached and way too dissonant. Her soulful voice is great, but I think this album did not show her full potential.
  40. georgiarose888
    Apr 17, 2021
    10
    I feel like Fiona has a window into my soul, I have always said if anyone would like to get to know me, all they have to do is listen to her entire discography. Fetch the Boltcutters is a welcome addition to my psyche.
  41. thegetaway
    Apr 15, 2021
    10
    Perfect album from start to finish! So beautiful, mesmerising and endlessly inventive. It's appropriate to call it an instant classic.
  42. BillboardPH
    Apr 9, 2021
    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.
  43. Jrpacnw
    Mar 29, 2021
    10
    Wow. Just...wow.
  44. TheBigCheez
    Mar 22, 2021
    6
    So, this was my introduction to Fiona Apple. Maybe this is why my rating is so low, but I believe in starting in the best of an artist's discography. Anyway, to the criticism. I honestly don't get the hype. The first 6 tracks were really boring, nothing to them. They weren't very nicely produced, the lyrics were okay telling a story throughout songs like Fetch The Bolt Cutters. But, ISo, this was my introduction to Fiona Apple. Maybe this is why my rating is so low, but I believe in starting in the best of an artist's discography. Anyway, to the criticism. I honestly don't get the hype. The first 6 tracks were really boring, nothing to them. They weren't very nicely produced, the lyrics were okay telling a story throughout songs like Fetch The Bolt Cutters. But, I think this album shines in the second half, rather than the first, which is where most of my criticism comes from. My other criticisms come from my disliking of her production and her vocals. I already expressed my disliking for her production, but I feel her vocals also contribute to the mediocrity of this album. I don't know who needs to hear this, but Fionas bocals are nothing special. Even on some of the tracks I liked her vocals performance annoyed me.… Expand
  45. All_ButTrU4
    Mar 3, 2021
    10
    BEST ALBUM I'VE EVER HEARD.
    *disclaimer:i heard this album on it's release date before public opinion could form *
    This album was an experience from me. An emotional rollercoaster. The first time i heard it i felt uncomfortable, repelled but as negative as that sounds it was in all the good ways. It did things i wasn't comfortable doing, it confronted me. The album must be noted as one    BEST ALBUM I'VE EVER HEARD.
    *disclaimer:i heard this album on it's release date before public opinion could form *
    This album was an experience from me. An emotional rollercoaster. The first time i heard it i felt uncomfortable, repelled but as negative as that sounds it was in all the good ways. It did things i wasn't comfortable doing, it confronted me. The album must be noted as one greater than music. Although it honors musicality well. It's relevance in our social climate of sexual assault, racism and discrimination this was a manifestation of what those victimized by those circumstances would feel without self pity or bias. It's honest. Take relay for example,the 5th song ,which details the aftermath of being wronged. The irrational hate, the need for revenge and perception of the perpetrator. It explores how hating someone or revenge doesn't let u gain anthing besides temporary satisfaction. That by doing so all u r doing is trying to one up the aggressor which is making them determine ur behaviour. Making you want to be just as worse as them just to be better when that notion in itself is contradictory:if they are awful for their actions doing the same would make u just as bad.
    The song explores this through a simple yet profound mantra and likewise production. The chorus is uniform whilst the song bursts into almost tribal chants and eruptions of improvisational backing. As if chaos has just insued. Then softly,there's an apology. She acknowledges that she isn't innocent to this.

    After learning more about f.t.b.c :it's creation,meaning and intention i felt overwhelmed.
    Firstly by how I'd learned this myself through listening and secondly that it's context like fank oceans Tumblr post is for C.O is part of it. Recap:The album was created a long time ago with pieces and different disjointed forms. That different non musical objects (pet dogs remains&baby shoes!)were essential to it's sound. This explains how natural the album feels. It's as if it existence always was.

    If i had to use three words to describe it it would be:bold/emotional/complex.

    It looks at everything it sees closely:love(i want you to love me/cosmonauts)trauma (newspaper/for her/newspaper )depression(heavy balloons/drumset)progress (on i go)feminism (shemika/for her/under the table/fetch the bolt cutters)
    It's a masterpiece deserving of the heist. A journal of love, trauma and whatever follows
    Favorites: relay, ladies, for her,cosmonauts, shemika    … Expand
  46. michcord
    Feb 26, 2021
    0
    i really didnt like it bc its so bad like idk its just bad i would like to have reparations for this pls
  47. Jackprior
    Feb 23, 2021
    10
    Love this album so much. Has fantastic lyrics and Uses a wide range of instruments.
  48. Diabolical_
    Jan 24, 2021
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Not for me. This album felt like I was being constantly held underwater. It’s one claustrophobic **** after another. The only good thing about it is that it ends.… Expand
  49. JoseA32
    Jan 23, 2021
    0
    Es muy experimental, para mi es horrible! Para gustos los colores pero no es para mi.
  50. renzoandre
    Dec 3, 2020
    9
    Cuando descubrimos que hay un mundo más allá de la música ordinaria, nos da miedo pensar que esta puede ser buena o mala, pero eso no debería ser el punto. La música trasmite mucho, así sea el género más popular o el que esté lleno de sexismos. Fetch The Bolt Cutters transmite con los instrumentos más convencionales una ola de feminismo que nos hace pensar más en unirnos a la causa. UnCuando descubrimos que hay un mundo más allá de la música ordinaria, nos da miedo pensar que esta puede ser buena o mala, pero eso no debería ser el punto. La música trasmite mucho, así sea el género más popular o el que esté lleno de sexismos. Fetch The Bolt Cutters transmite con los instrumentos más convencionales una ola de feminismo que nos hace pensar más en unirnos a la causa. Un album empoderado, lleno de furia, amor, locura, etc. Sin duda una obra maestra.… Expand
  51. sunflowxr
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    De una manera salvaje, genuina, alocada y es increíble lo que hace en este álbum cómo te teletransporta y viajas en cada canción.
  52. goncaloocp
    Dec 30, 2020
    9
    Fiona Apple is not one of the artists I listen to on a daily basis and after a lot of reviews and opinions I've decided to give it a listen. I was hooked. I loved the lyricism and even though the sound is not one of my favorites this was a really good album. Fiona is a wonderful artist.
  53. denizkose
    Dec 28, 2020
    5
    There is a lot of raw emotions and I appreciate the honesty of the album but the melody & the sounds are really not for me. Don't think I would listen to this album again.
  54. ksullivan
    Dec 27, 2020
    10
    FTBC's "I Want You To Love Me" is the best album-opening track I've ever heard to date. Fiona's voice is so moving
  55. cadusoares
    Nov 29, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. I simply have no words for this album. The whole thing just feels like everything is falling apart while Fiona blasts you with jaw-droppingly great lyrics so full of vivid details it feels like you are having a conversation with her at that very second. The songs here feel so feral and unbounded, and the percussion just sounds SO CRISP. This album is an experience, I really never heard anything like it.… Expand
  56. asdeerty
    Dec 26, 2020
    10
    Sin duda el mejor trabajo de la discografía de Fiona, es recomendable que si no te gusta el mainstream no lo escuches, porque este álbum no es para encerrarse en lo comercial, sino que lo experimental lo hace más timeless y orgánico, no se encuentra un álbum tan bueno como este dos veces, destacando los lyrics.
  57. crissss23
    Dec 16, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It s literally one of the best albums of all time, the pasion she has in this album and the story about middle-school experiences and how she grew out of them, amazing!… Expand
  58. cosmonauts
    Dec 12, 2020
    10
    Instant classic. When you start to analyze every detail of this album you get to understand its greatness and the reason why this is an album that will define a decade.
  59. mehe321
    Dec 11, 2020
    0
    worst and boring. wth is dis. make smth better sis. FN was way better. But at least better than Positions and Changes.
  60. IndianaParkWars
    Dec 10, 2020
    10
    12/12

    This is a tremendous album. Hands down. It's certainly one of my favorites of the year and favorites of all time. It's weird, catchy, and unlike anything normal. This is one of those albums that once you listen to it, you just know it's perfect. Every single song is a banger and challenges what normal pop sounds like. However, I like this better. It's experimental, out of tune,    12/12

    This is a tremendous album. Hands down. It's certainly one of my favorites of the year and favorites of all time. It's weird, catchy, and unlike anything normal. This is one of those albums that once you listen to it, you just know it's perfect. Every single song is a banger and challenges what normal pop sounds like. However, I like this better. It's experimental, out of tune, has weird time signatures, a lo-fi sound, and uses instruments in a different way. At the same time, it invokes some strange emotions. It's almost triumphant and powerful. Apple's voice is so strong and beautiful that she's almost created an avant-garde anthem for us. It's like if Ben Folds, Yoko Ono, and Joni Mitchell merged into one. All the right parts. It's perfect. One might think progressive and pop are oxymoronic when put together, but this is progressive pop and experimental pop in the flesh.
    I love every track and would listen to each one in my playlist. But, "Shameika" is a hit, "I Want You to Love Me" is an anthem, "Rack of His" might be the best song.

    ALBUM ARTWORK: The artwork is great. It represents the raw and experimental nature of the album. It looks like it's made from pieces of paper and markers, almost childishly, which is the same playfulness and low fidelity that the music has. It almost feels like an evening with Fiona Apple in her living room, with some arts and crafts and wine afterwards. Also, the black, gold, and purple color scheme works very well with the female-empowering theme here. It's strong and bold. Lastly, Apple's extreme close-up selfie in the middle looks like a random Snapchat put in black and white. What else would you expect? She's smirking right at us on the cover. She knows it is casual and quirky and the point is to have fun. And well, I certainly had fun.
    Artwork rating: 10/12    … Expand
  61. refasliva
    Dec 10, 2020
    9
    Time will tell of course, but this absolutely feels like a classic album already. The cohesion and the flow between tracks is stellar, considering how chaotic the instrumentals and the riffs can be. Despite how intensely layered it is, it never feels exhausting or like it overstays its welcome. A Fiona Apple album is always a gift.
  62. BarWils
    Dec 8, 2020
    0
    Fiona decides to speak and, of course,it’s a big,drawn out to do . It’s a damn fine album. Led Zeppelin iv ? No,not even close. But she does release some really decent tunes here.
  63. Panchogul
    Dec 7, 2020
    10
    Este es uno de los álbumes que más me han sorprendido este año y no sabia nada al respecto ni de Fiona hasta que vi sus nominaciones al Grammy, la verdad siento que no me arrepiento de nada, es tan peculiar y diferente que me atrapó al instante, no sabría definir su género musical, pero definitivamente es superior a muchos otros lanzamientos de los últimos años.
  64. JvanMariah
    Dec 5, 2020
    2
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's like a Yoko Ono album, I don't understand the happiness it causes, I'm probably wrong but I definitely don't think it's the album of the year.… Expand
  65. vitortfv
    Dec 3, 2020
    8
    I didn't know Fiona before and her work was strangely tempting to me. Strange and pleasant.
  66. EnriqueBallinas
    Dec 1, 2020
    10
    This album has so much power, it is pure perfection and everyone should listen to it at least once.
  67. Faxthtax
    Nov 30, 2020
    7
    Good, but very undefining, sounds very experimental both in composition and recording and the whole thing feels "out" and open.
    I don´t see the ultra praise that it gets. After one listen i did not feel compelled to give it another round.
    But i have enjoyed Fiona's previous works though.
  68. DUCHIEU
    Nov 25, 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.
  69. anguswats
    Nov 24, 2020
    10
    This album is incredible. I understand that some may find it confusing but it brings a sound with it that's like making an album from the 90's today (an extremely rare occurrence). When listening to Fetch the Bolt Cutters it actually feels as though the music is live - incredible
  70. fkablockhead
    Nov 21, 2020
    10
    After an 8 year musical hiatus, Fiona Apple reemerged with her most prolific, unique, and raw work to date. Distinctly composed of percussive layering and vocal loops, this album is the most notable sonic departure in Apple's musical discography. Released with little promo in the rise of a global pandemic, Apple's lyrics stick like oatmeal to the ribs of a society itself looking to "fetchAfter an 8 year musical hiatus, Fiona Apple reemerged with her most prolific, unique, and raw work to date. Distinctly composed of percussive layering and vocal loops, this album is the most notable sonic departure in Apple's musical discography. Released with little promo in the rise of a global pandemic, Apple's lyrics stick like oatmeal to the ribs of a society itself looking to "fetch the bolt cutters" and get out of our universally bad situation.… Expand
  71. raz13
    Nov 21, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. i am sorry , maybe I'm an idiot i can't listen to it ,it is very hard to get through even one song maybe its not my style ,i am always open when it comes to music but this album is a no… Expand
  72. panzcoolg
    Nov 20, 2020
    10
    APPLE, YET AGAIN, EXCELS IN WHAT SHE DOES BEST: CONVEYING EMOTION TO THE LISTENER USING WHATEVER MEANS POSSIBLE.
  73. HG_Kitara
    Nov 20, 2020
    9
    This album is the definition of human emotion. Exploring the concepts of love, anger, sadness and joy, Fionna's ability to turn a song on its head within a blink of an eye is second to none. Writing ranges from comedic to shocking. Fantastic album.
  74. hellohellohell4
    Nov 5, 2020
    10
    The Best Album Of ALL TIME! it is just so amazing and gets better every time i listen to it!
  75. 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
  76. zil94
    Oct 30, 2020
    0
    Am I the only person who feels like critics were paid to give this album perfect 100 scores? It didn't do anything for me.
  77. mlkasa
    Oct 30, 2020
    0
    Hot garbage, just a bunch of random noise, nothing of actual quality, should have been kept in the drafts
  78. stskotty
    Oct 30, 2020
    10
    We only had to wait 8 years but it was worth every single second. I don't know how but she exceeds expectations with the bar set at nothing less than Extraordinary. If you listen to this and don't like it I beg you to put on headphones and listen from beginning to end. It may take some a little time to find the comfort, but when you do, it's magnificent.
  79. Jefferson16
    Oct 30, 2020
    0
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Uno de los peores álbumes que he escuchado en mi vida, definitivamente horroroso.… Expand
  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. Willduffy
    Oct 15, 2020
    10
    I honestly thought it was lame on first listen. But after a few more listens and searching up the meaning behind all of the songs and how Fiona made them, I realised I've never been more wrong in my life. This album is creative, unique, incredible and just mind blowing. One of the best albums I've ever heard and without a doubt the best of 2020 (so far, although I doubt this will beI honestly thought it was lame on first listen. But after a few more listens and searching up the meaning behind all of the songs and how Fiona made them, I realised I've never been more wrong in my life. This album is creative, unique, incredible and just mind blowing. One of the best albums I've ever heard and without a doubt the best of 2020 (so far, although I doubt this will be topped). I do not have any favourites, all of the songs are great.… Expand
  82. allmirrors
    Oct 2, 2020
    10
    i swear on fiona's dogs i WILL hunt each and every f@660t who is giving this 0s without listening to it just because they're butthurt over this getting an 98 and their favorite basic pop albums barely getting 80s. gaga stans and taylor stans better get the f#ck out of here or im hacking ur account and giving 10s to all of fiona's albums. y'all were warned. it's on sight.
  83. Simao
    Oct 1, 2020
    9
    if i'm being honest, at first it took me some time to understand the songs, both lyrically and musically. then i started to realize every time i would listen to the album again, it would make more sense and it would gradually grew on me - it did in such a way i wouldn't have ever predicted.

    fetch the bolt cutters is definitely her most experimental record and the most difficult to    if i'm being honest, at first it took me some time to understand the songs, both lyrically and musically. then i started to realize every time i would listen to the album again, it would make more sense and it would gradually grew on me - it did in such a way i wouldn't have ever predicted.

    fetch the bolt cutters is definitely her most experimental record and the most difficult to listen to - but it is also the one which sounds completely out of this world when you start to REALLY get into it.

    from the unusual melodies to the experimental use of new sounds and hard-to-guess lyrics, fiona made a masterpiece that is, i have to admit, worthy of all the critical acclaim. the album is, without a doubt, fiona's most cohesive body of work. it all just fits so well together, which just proves her genius and always improving talent.

    i cannot say this is my fav album. when the pawn... is probably gonna fill that place forever, but who knows, maybe i'll review it again and i'll like it even more.

    fav songs: i want you to love me, ladies & cosmonauts
    least fav: heavy balloon    … Expand
  84. SantanaBerry
    Sep 26, 2020
    0
    I'm sorry, but this album seems so confusing. It probably be a pure work of art, but only for a art museum. People can't enjoy this kind of things at any situation.
  85. chocstraw
    Sep 15, 2020
    7
    It's a good but the rave reviews felt too sensational. Many solid songs, great production, not a 10/10, must-listen album.
  86. mikkyd_
    Sep 5, 2020
    0
    A masterpiece. If you do not like this album, i can't ever trust you with anything. Fi saved me from the mess that is this pandemic! It's unhinged, it's angsty, it's full of flavour! It's an album that only FIONA could make!
  87. MetaSwiftie19
    Sep 5, 2020
    10
    We got the Album Of The Decade in the first months of 2020 periodt, it was worth every second of this MASTERPIECE
  88. 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!
  89. Fellipecomichol
    Sep 2, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Another masterpice worth the wait! So unique, one of the best albums of the year and for me it's her best work. She is genius!… Expand
  90. 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.
  91. 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.
  92. nikris
    Aug 29, 2020
    0
    It is boring, repetitive, it leaves you without wanting to listen to it again
  93. 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.
  94. brennans
    Aug 28, 2020
    3
    I love Fiona Apple's music aside from this album, and I know that what she is putting out here is a stab at "art," a new kind of "music." There's no question there's a load of creativity here. But it's a fail in my book as an album, so pretentious and self-indulgent. What appears to be on the surface an album for our times, especially in the way it explores gender roles and powerI love Fiona Apple's music aside from this album, and I know that what she is putting out here is a stab at "art," a new kind of "music." There's no question there's a load of creativity here. But it's a fail in my book as an album, so pretentious and self-indulgent. What appears to be on the surface an album for our times, especially in the way it explores gender roles and power dynamics, is actually an act of extreme narcissism. (Well, maybe it is an album for our times after all. . . ) This album isn't about an artist facilitating a connection to the human condition. It's an album that says look at me, pay attention to me. I don't like this general trend. That said, I could see why it might win album of the year. But it will be an album of the year nobody will ever listen to five, ten years from now. Ultimately, the album is a challenging bore.… Expand
  95. Swiftie1989love
    Aug 28, 2020
    0
    It is boring, repetitive, it leaves you without wanting to listen to it again,
  96. LittleMostra
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    I love this, is magical, the lyrics are spectacular, Fiona are a truly and complete artist, this deserves a Grammy, Ladies and gentleman this is the album of the year!
  97. twet
    Aug 28, 2020
    10
    o melhor álbum do ano sem sombra de duvida, fiona deu o nome dela e se não ganhar o aoty desse ano é marmelada
  98. 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.
  99. rayjay
    Aug 26, 2020
    1
    Cannot get into this album. Her music is too cold and intellectual and quirky for my taste. If the music does not move me emotionally in some way, then forget it.
  100. ArturWLM
    Aug 25, 2020
    0
    Overrated. This is not good music structures, not good vocals or cool sound of instrument.
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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 »