"Extraordinary Machine" is the third studio album by American singer-songwriter Fiona Apple, released by Epic Records in the United States on October 4, 2005, and in Europe on October 3, 2005. Produced by Jon Brion, the album was expected to be released in 2003 but faced multiple delays due to concerns over its commercial appeal. The controversy and leaked recordings from the Jon Brion sessions garnered significant media attention, leading to a fan-led campaign for the album's release. Apple re-recorded the album with producers Mike Elizondo and Brian Kehew over 2004 and 2005, culminating in its eventual release more than three years after recording began.
The album was nominated for the Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Album in 2006. In 2009, it was named the 49th best album of the 2000s by Rolling Stone, and in 2020, it was ranked number 444 on the magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time.
After completing her tour for her second album, When the Pawn..., in 2000, Apple moved to Los Angeles. During her hiatus, she considered retiring from music. In spring 2002, Apple and Brion met for lunch, and after he encouraged her to make another album, she agreed. They began studio work in June 2003, with recording sessions taking place at various locations, including the Paramour Mansion and Abbey Road Studios.
The album's release was repeatedly delayed, leading to speculation about its status. By early 2004, multiple tracks had leaked online, generating buzz and support from fans. In February 2005, Apple began re-recording some songs after a backlash against the original version, which the label felt lacked commercial appeal.
Eventually, on August 15, 2005, Epic announced the album's official release for October 4, 2005. The re-recorded version featured extensive changes, with only two tracks remaining unchanged. A new song, "Parting Gift," was also added. The album cover features a photograph taken by Apple.
Despite initial tensions surrounding the project, Apple and Brion later performed together, with both expressing admiration for each other's work. There were discussions about potentially releasing the original sessions of Extraordinary Machine in the future.
