Never Is A Promise, the sophomore album from Fiona Apple, is a deeply introspective and emotionally raw work that showcases the singer-songwriter's immense talent and artistry. Released in 1996, the album continues the confessional style of her debut album, Tidal, but with a more mature and refined sound that highlights Apple's growth as a musician.
The album's standout tracks include "Shadowboxer," "Slow Like Honey," and "The First Taste," which feature Apple's distinctive vocals and poetic lyrics set against a backdrop of lush instrumentation. The album's title track, "Never Is A Promise," is a haunting ballad that explores the complexities of love and loss, while "Sullen Girl" is a poignant reflection on the pain of growing up.
Throughout the album, Apple's lyrics are deeply personal and introspective, exploring themes of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. Her raw, unvarnished approach to songwriting is both refreshing and powerful, and her ability to convey complex emotions with such clarity and honesty is a testament to her talent as an artist.