It’s tough being a fan of an artist who is the opposite of prolific. Take Fiona Apple, one of my very favorites — she has released just five albums in 30 years.

Given that dearth of content, any new recording by Ms. Apple is a cause for celebration. And recent months have seen a flurry of such activity, at least by her standards. I don’t know if a new album is forthcoming (it’s been five years since her last, 2020’s acclaimed Fetch the Bolt Cutters), but maybe her renewed interest in hitting the studio is a good sign.

This week, I’ll feature five recent releases by Apple, including covers, collaborations, and one new original song.

First up is a song from Scottish folk rockers The Waterboys’ new album Life, Death and Dennis Hopper. As the title suggests, it’s a song cycle about the late American actor. In addition to Apple, guest vocalists on the album include Steve Earle and Bruce Springsteen.

Apple’s song is called ‘Letter From An Unknown Girlfriend’ and it alludes to allegations that Hopper was abusive in some of his relationships. The track is a fine showcase of Apple’s piano playing and raw vocals.