Emily: Even though Fiona Apple’s Tidal spawned numerous singles, including the Grammy-winning Criminal, and even though the videos for those singles received heavy MTV airplay, to classify the album as just ‘90s pop singer-songwriter stuff does not even begin to accurately describe the beautifully nuanced music and storytelling behind it. Through both her music and her lyrics, Apple’s soul is on display for all to hear. She was a teenager when she wrote most of the album, but her deeply personal lyrics are mature beyond her years. Each song is an emotional snapshot of the love and loss in a relationship gone bad. The music behind the lyrics plays into the story as well. Tidal takes on a variety of styles beyond mere acoustic pop; jazz, soul, and blues are clear influences on the album’s haunting yet beautiful musical arrangements. This is definitely not your typical singer-songwriter fodder, but every element works beautifully together – an emotional display definitely deserving of its recognition, praise, and success.
Favorite Tracks: Criminal; Sleep to Dream; The Child is Gone
Zack: I expected this album to be overall enjoyable but nothing special. I thought it would probably be a typical poppy performance with mostly upbeat songs, 1-2 haunting melodies, and maybe a heartfelt song somewhere in the mix. Apparently, I drastically underestimated the musical ability of Ms. Apple. Because, well damn, homegirl can bring it. Most of the melodies are haunting and every single song is heartfelt. While I expected more of a jazzed up Katy Perry with some indie cred, I got something much more akin to a Jeff Buckley or Kate Bush. It was, in a word, tantalizing. I’m not even completely sure that Criminal was the high point. I…I…I can’t even pick out a high point. The entire album fluctuated from very good to very, very good with several songs bordering on brilliant. Bravo, Ms. Apple. Bravo. Oh, and call me?
Favorite Tracks: Sleep to Dream; The Child Is Gone; Criminal
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