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. eleventy4
    Apr 21, 2020
    10
    Sheer brilliance. Mesmerizing, challenging, nuanced, simultaneously minimalistic and cacophonous.
  2. pascoupe
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    While I've never heard anything quite like it, it does feel perfectly timed for this moment. Other unsettled souls, in these unsettled times, can find comfort in its unpredictable and sometimes wacky drive and pulse because it all ultimately adds up to something that fills a hole that maybe we didn't know was there until now. It feels like a signpost on the human condition in 2020. We'reWhile I've never heard anything quite like it, it does feel perfectly timed for this moment. Other unsettled souls, in these unsettled times, can find comfort in its unpredictable and sometimes wacky drive and pulse because it all ultimately adds up to something that fills a hole that maybe we didn't know was there until now. It feels like a signpost on the human condition in 2020. We're still here. 10/10.… Expand
  3. 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.
  4. 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
  5. Jesseneuro
    May 2, 2020
    10
    After being skeptical re: the critical bandwagon of the Pitchfork variety, despite being a die-hard Fiona Apple fan proud in his biased adulation, what convinced me this album was a tenner was Fiona’s appearance on “Democracy Now” regarding the very record and its meanings, rushed release, and liner note on the “back” of the album (under the track listing-as-cover-art).
    And, more    After being skeptical re: the critical bandwagon of the Pitchfork variety, despite being a die-hard Fiona Apple fan proud in his biased adulation, what convinced me this album was a tenner was Fiona’s appearance on “Democracy Now” regarding the very record and its meanings, rushed release, and liner note on the “back” of the album (under the track listing-as-cover-art).
    And, more importantly, the substance of the musical intensity: IMHyetAO “Cosmonauts”, “Newspaper” and “For Her” stand out. Ladies! Ladies Ladies....    … Expand
  6. ArionXenos
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    There is literally nothing wrong with this album. How could you not like this! The singing's unhinged, people hitting stuff, bluesy melodies, changeable instrumentation, tempo shifts...amazing!
  7. kaylamanor
    May 12, 2020
    10
    Perfect album. Definitely the best album of the year thus far. My ears were constantly surprised by the sounds it heard from Fiona and her band. So many twists and turns, so much storytelling, and unconventional sounds and beats. Just delicious.
  8. 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
  9. 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.
  10. Refall
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Let me start by saying that before this album's release, I had never heard of Fiona Apple. I also don't typically listen to music similar to hers. I love this album, and I would recommend it to anyone. I highly doubt everyone will like it - or even half - but when they do, I suspect they'll love it. It's an utterly original production with outstanding lyricism sprinkled all over. FantasticLet me start by saying that before this album's release, I had never heard of Fiona Apple. I also don't typically listen to music similar to hers. I love this album, and I would recommend it to anyone. I highly doubt everyone will like it - or even half - but when they do, I suspect they'll love it. It's an utterly original production with outstanding lyricism sprinkled all over. Fantastic record, and deserves all the praise.… Expand
  11. amandaaraujo_
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Simply brilliant and gold, just like i was expecting. Fiona Apple's discography never disappoints you.
  12. nandolopes16
    May 27, 2020
    10
    Uma lenda vivaaaaa!! Devolvam o 100 dela metacritic e apague os comentários de propósito desses haters.
  13. vicxxx
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona never disappoints, this album is a **** masterpiece, raw, beautiful, unique and experimental like everything she does. 10/10 stream fetch the bolt cutters!!!!
  14. 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.
  15. CharlieGray
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This is easily the best album of the year, I don’t know what could possibly top it
  16. 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
  17. 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
  18. 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.
  19. mrlucbra
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona is proving, onde again, that she is the greatest songwriter os the past 25 years.
  20. joethealien
    May 15, 2020
    10
    Seriously epic masterpiece, all killer no filler! Songs like Ladies and Cosmonauts cement her as an all-time great, with exceptional vocal and lyrical performances. Shameika has the coolest piano riff I've heard in years and, in a fair world, would be a ginormous radio hit. Fiona always delivers, but this is next level ****. It's an occasionally difficult listen, but it is so worth it andSeriously epic masterpiece, all killer no filler! Songs like Ladies and Cosmonauts cement her as an all-time great, with exceptional vocal and lyrical performances. Shameika has the coolest piano riff I've heard in years and, in a fair world, would be a ginormous radio hit. Fiona always delivers, but this is next level ****. It's an occasionally difficult listen, but it is so worth it and a complete breath of fresh air in these wild times. Easiest 10 I've given in years.… Expand
  21. 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.
  22. 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.
  23. funkyhomosapien
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    After 8 years from her last album The Idler Wheel..., miss Fiona Apple made another masterpiece.
  24. teenageroftheyr
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Best album of the year so far, absolutely no doubt about it. Give this album time and your full attention. There hasn't been anything quite like it in music.
  25. 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.
  26. 26corzo
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    muy hermoso, delicioso, genial album, para todos los oidos, definitivamente este es el album del año!
  27. 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.
  28. 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.
  29. abkman
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona unbound, wild, and let loose. And she is here to save us. Bow down. Thank you Fiona.
  30. 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
  31. 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
  32. vojtamarek
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Fetch the Bolt Cutters is a perfect body of work. Apple’s unbelievable songwriting makes you feel you’re with her, right now, in her living room and she’s telling you about all the people who did her wrong. And you just wanna listen. This is a brilliant album and Fiona’s best work so far.
  33. DanielaCaro
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Fiona ha demostrado evolucionar disco tras disco, año tras año. Definitivamente es una de las mejores letristas que ha dado la música. En este album podemos atestiguar el cómo Fiona utiliza los sentimientos complicados, ansiedad, preocupación y lo vuelca en una bomba de experiencias únicas.
  34. 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.
  35. 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
  36. eliluc123
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    One of the best albums of 2020! It’s so emotional and brilliant the way that miss Apple writes her music. QUEEN OF EVERYTHING
  37. 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
  38. 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.
  39. Suedehead
    Apr 24, 2020
    10
    Album of the Year... Simply stunning...

    I Want You to Love Me is the best track I've heard in a long long time!
  40. darkdrey
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Amazing!!! Fiona is giving us everything we are needing!! Her voice is so powerful and her lyrics are so amazing as always.
  41. Lgrew
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It was amazing and breathtaking. Everybody moved!!!! Everybody said something!!!!!!
  42. dess211925
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    It's is exactly what I was expecting from her.
    Reminds me of The Idler Wheel
  43. 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
  44. 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
  45. jughck
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    What a **** great start for a new decade of music!! Fetch the Bolt Cutters was indeed worth the wait!!
  46. Orbulon
    Apr 24, 2020
    10
    Amazing album that I've not yet listened to

    Anyone who disagrees is a big poopyhead
  47. 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!
  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. 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.
  50. 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!
  51. Abloobla
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Fiona Apple just reinvented the entire concept of music. Unparalleled on every level.
  52. pablovidaurre
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    talented brilliant incredible amazing show stopping spectacular never the same.
    Album of the Year
  53. jopester
    May 4, 2020
    10
    Passionate, percussive, perfection! I love this. Every song is fantastic. Particular high points are Newspaper, Ladies, Heavy Balloon, and Shameika. Another classic in a Ling line of classics from Fiona.
  54. 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
  55. 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
  56. 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.
  57. Connorcaughs
    Apr 23, 2020
    10
    This album is genuinely, incredibly rejuvenating. It is a masterpiece that is totally necessary right now, and has messages almost everyone can connect with.
  58. 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.
  59. sulli
    May 21, 2020
    10
    the queen of music!! the greatest THE GREATEST SONGWRITER ALIVE OR DEAD SHE IS THE MOMENT
  60. 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.
  61. Kremyy
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    People who don't like this album are probably people (and I mean mostly men) who simply don't understand or feel it. As a woman who went through very similar things like she did, this record is utterly heavy, raw, honest and sometimes painful.
    The lyrics are absolutely perfect and so is the delivery. Her voice sounds as good as ever and this is the kind of album that just won't let you    People who don't like this album are probably people (and I mean mostly men) who simply don't understand or feel it. As a woman who went through very similar things like she did, this record is utterly heavy, raw, honest and sometimes painful.
    The lyrics are absolutely perfect and so is the delivery. Her voice sounds as good as ever and this is the kind of album that just won't let you go, even after it's over.    … Expand
  62. Tigermonko
    Jul 11, 2020
    10
    It's not an easy listen and doesn't fit fit the current sounds. What you get is a visceral, exciting album that is completely free in the choices it makes. Stunning.
  63. 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
  64. marcosarf
    Apr 22, 2020
    10
    "Masterpiece" is enough. The perfection: IWYTLM, Shameika, Kick me under the table, newspaper, heavy balloon, cosmonauts.
  65. Eka_
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    A masterpiece lit rally a masterpiece how could u did not listening to this
  66. fionaspaperbag
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Meu deus Fiona, é tudo que eu esperava e muito mais. A forma como é cru e sóbrio, como é diferente de tudo que você já fez e ainda assim mantém tua identidade...
    Meu deus. Chorei ouvindo e chorei vendo o sucesso crítico desse novo projeto, parabéns mamãeeee
  67. Cesargalindo
    May 29, 2020
    10
    It’s a masterpiece, it reflects what Fiona is...one of the greatest artist of our time
  68. NormanAlee
    Jul 9, 2020
    10
    Actually it`s 9/10. And the Idler Wheel is superior by melodies, more authenticwith more complex and less accessible melodies. New album got so much hype becouse of it`s long awaitning. But it obviosly not3/10 or 1/10 like some left here). Can't understand how patiently someone hates this album and Fiona which appears sooo rare. There might be most wise lyrics written for women.
  69. Aisaza
    Apr 18, 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.
  70. dollmouth
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    A completely perfect album. Somehow improves upon the perfection of her past four. A stunning collection of feminist lyrics, production that’s experimental yet accessible + warm, and raw, unedited vocals.
  71. Styletoowell
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. incrível, perfeita, isso é o álbum do ano caras eu passo mal em como tudo nesse album é perfeito… Expand
  72. Chastiefol
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Fetch the bolt cutters is what we needed in music right now and Fiona knows it, so she made a perfect album with cool lyrics and great sounds. It is amazing to listen. You have to. So what do you waiting for.
  73. anuj1234
    Apr 22, 2020
    10
    The lyrics are god tier. Songs flow so smoothly telling her story in a manner which is unheard of. Just legend things for her.
  74. ldss
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    I knew she was gonna deliver a brilliant album but I never imagined it'd be this career topping masterpiece that is FETCH THE BOLT CUTTERS. Love you like crazy, Fiona. Always a pleasure being able to witness such extraordinary talent!
  75. Will633
    May 12, 2020
    10
    An amazing masterpiece with enticing track arrangements, powerful vocals and significant meanings. Each song resembles a section of Fiona’s art exhibition which is coherent as whole yet nuanced in details. The album addresses self-empowerment, depression, aboriginal land acknowledgement etc. Sonically, this art project takes you to an adventurous journey away from your life predicamentAn amazing masterpiece with enticing track arrangements, powerful vocals and significant meanings. Each song resembles a section of Fiona’s art exhibition which is coherent as whole yet nuanced in details. The album addresses self-empowerment, depression, aboriginal land acknowledgement etc. Sonically, this art project takes you to an adventurous journey away from your life predicament with choir harmonizations, piano and drum percussions, vividly dynamic vocals and refreshing touch of guitar. Every time you listen to this whole body of work brings you fun and new experience. Highly recommended.… Expand
  76. Enriquecasas
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Excelente, Fiona siempre ha hecho de su vida arte y este no fue la excepción
  77. 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.
  78. clouds_darkness
    May 24, 2020
    10
    Fiona got herself a new fan. Every song stands great on its own. the hype is real
  79. Kaerys
    May 8, 2020
    10
    VERY creative and unique. I didn't know what to expect because I never heard this artist, but know I admire her. She did a spectacular work!
  80. 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
  81. 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
  82. samloveslorde
    May 21, 2020
    10
    incredible. Her Magnum Opus and is clearly showing her talent. Deserves the 100 it got. A legend.
  83. 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
  84. 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
  85. 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)
  86. MetaDamon
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Unique. Artful. Difficult. Experimental. All of that yet utterly listenable. It’s the kind of album you put the headphones on, lay on the floor with the lyric sheet and travel along to. She has called upon the spirits of many genres to create her own. It sounds like it took years to create and a day to record.
  87. pedrorider
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    The best songwriter just made an amazing percussion-heavy, raw masterpiece. 8 years waiting and it was worth it.
  88. Vsenese
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    Simply AMAZING! She's got so much to say and no one says it quite like she does. The music, lyrics and her voice are a perfect marriage of her brilliant art!
  89. Bbbbbbkaksjeje
    Apr 19, 2020
    10
    Such a good album everything perfect, and al the songs are perfect and so so so good
  90. 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
  91. antymosphere
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    “Fetch the Bolt Cutters” é o quinto álbum da cantora e pianista estadunidense, Fiona **** Apple. O último lançamento dela foi em 2012, desde então seguiu durante oito anos sem lançar nenhum disco até o dia 17 de abril de 2020. Com seu trabalho de estreia, “Tidal (1996)”, Fiona conquistou o mundo, mostrando um trabalho genuíno que se tornou conhecido universalmente.

    O álbum segue uma    “Fetch the Bolt Cutters” é o quinto álbum da cantora e pianista estadunidense, Fiona **** Apple. O último lançamento dela foi em 2012, desde então seguiu durante oito anos sem lançar nenhum disco até o dia 17 de abril de 2020. Com seu trabalho de estreia, “Tidal (1996)”, Fiona conquistou o mundo, mostrando um trabalho genuíno que se tornou conhecido universalmente.

    O álbum segue uma linha única e tênue, usando de conceitos, referências para conduzir a obra do início ao fim. Apple é suavemente ousada em criar esse tipo de atmosfera, provavelmente muita gente não irá se identificar com a proposta da artista, mas é necessário considerar as influências apresentadas e a cena pop-alternativa atual, estabelecendo um paralelo entre as visões pessoais dela e o mainstream dos anos 90.
    Apreciando o disco me deparei com uma comparação interna com o estilo de musical da banda norte-americana The Doors, a força que ela impõe suas ideias e usa do piano para trazer a potência da obra me remeteu a Jim Morrison. Deixando claro que é apenas uma comparação técnica e pessoal da minha parte. A compositora se apresenta perfeitamente a frente das canções, trazendo suas características melódicas, fazendo críticas sobre o relacionamento pessoal dos humanos e entre outras coisas, sempre brincando com as palavras e com a voz buscando expressar a intensidade das letras e das melodias, se tornando única ao fazer isso.
    Utilizando de modelos diferentes nas faixas, trabalhando com repetições e elementos experimentais, o disco pode ser um pouco difícil de ser digerido e compreendido em sua complexidade. O processo de produção constrói uma coesão baseada no pop-rock, com influências do folk e vertentes alternativas já conhecidas de seus trabalhos anteriores. Amy Aileen Wood é o produtor creditado em todo o álbum juntamente com Fiona, ajudando a transferir toda a verdade e excentricidade dela.

    Lembrando algumas músicas dos anos 60 e 70 com reflexões atuais, “Fetch the Bolt Cutters” surge com toda uma força expressiva quem vem especialmente do esforço de Fiona, não é atoa que esse é o álbum mais aclamado pela crítica especializada até o momento, arrecadando notas excelentes. O meu favorito ao Grammy de Álbum do Ano no momento precisa ser muito bem apreciado e analisado, a partir da proposta de não seguir padrões comerciais, mantendo sempre o nível elevado de qualidade, faz de Fiona Apple uma lenda vida em todo o contexto musical atual. Esse disco é aclamado por mim como uma obra prima, (e única), da nova década. Clássico, violento e sofisticado.

    Anty.    … Expand
  92. 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.
  93. Luis77777777
    Apr 20, 2020
    10
    es un excelente disco donde experimenta y demuestra que sigue siendo una de las mejores artistas de inventario musical
  94. 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
  95. jonathanreviews
    Apr 18, 2020
    10
    Fiona Apple nailed every aspect to this album and you can tell when listening to this that 8 years away from the music scene can produce incredible art for the future. Apple revived her entire career with this album and there is NOT one track on this album that lacks in lyrical quality, sonic quality, or vocal production. Easily one of the best albums to come out in 2020.
  96. JuneD
    Apr 23, 2020
    10
    I freaking love this album! It's intense, abrasive,playful and weird. Fiona's voice has never sounded stronger or more confident as vocalist. Her lyrical wordplay is masterful and unique. This is definitely going to be in my top 5 albums of the year.
  97. 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.
  98. 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.
  99. 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
  100. Whimsy
    Apr 17, 2020
    10
    8 years allowed for a wonderful experimentation to become refined and purposeful.
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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 »