Ep 3. Fiona Apple

MTV Unplugged season 8 episode 3 brings to you the multi-talented artist Fiona Apple, who takes the stage to give a memorable performance. The show is known for showcasing acoustic versions of popular songs by world-renowned artists, but this episode is special as it marks the return of Fiona Apple to the limelight after a six-year hiatus.

The episode starts with Fiona Apple's performance of her hit song "Fast as You Can." As she begins to play the piano, her haunting voice fills the room and captivates the audience. The energy in the room is palpable as Fiona's voice echoes in the intimate setting of MTV Unplugged. The stripped-down arrangement of the song highlights Fiona's raw talent as a songwriter, and the lyrics take on a new meaning in the acoustic setting.

The next song in the setlist is "Shadowboxer," another fan-favorite from Fiona's debut album "Tidal." The stripped-back version of the song is simple yet powerful, with Fiona's voice soaring above the understated instrumentation. Her ability to convey emotion through her voice is on full display in this song, with lines like "There's nothing to say/And I'm saying it" hitting particularly hard.

In between songs, Fiona shares stories and anecdotes with the audience, providing a glimpse into her creative process and the inspiration behind her music. She talks about the process of writing her new album "Fetch the Bolt Cutters," which was recorded in her own home and features a variety of unique sounds, including barking dogs and rattling chains. It's clear that Fiona is passionate about her craft and that her music comes from a deeply personal place.

The setlist also includes some lesser-known songs from Fiona's discography, such as "Every Single Night" and "Werewolf." These songs showcase Fiona's range as a songwriter, with "Every Single Night" featuring a more upbeat tempo and "Werewolf" showcasing a more subdued, introspective side of her music.

One of the highlights of the episode is Fiona's cover of "I Want You" by Elvis Costello. This song was originally released in 1986 on Costello's album "Blood & Chocolate," and Fiona's take on the song is a beautiful tribute to the original. Her voice takes on a sultry quality, and the stripped-back arrangement highlights the complexity of the song's lyrics.

The episode takes a more somber turn towards the end, with Fiona performing "Cosmonauts" and "On I Go." These songs deal with themes of isolation and introspection, and Fiona's emotive performance leaves a lasting impact on the audience.

Overall, Fiona Apple's MTV Unplugged performance is breathtaking from start to finish. Her ability to convey emotion through her voice and lyrics is unparalleled, and the stripped-down arrangements of the songs provide a unique perspective on her music. This episode is a must-watch for any Fiona Apple fan, as well as anyone who appreciates great music performed in an intimate setting.