Score: 4/5
For an individual with such a delicate appearance and soft voice, Laura Marling’s new album, “Short Movie” has a fire burning behind it.
Daring to make the comparisons to singer-songwriters Tracy Chapman or Joni Mitchell, listeners will feel Marling’s soul in her songs just the same. Marling isn’t a mirror image of these artists, but their overall vibe and lyrical work are in the same neighborhood.
True to its form, the British vocalist’s work can’t be approached on a whim or else listeners will miss out on the 13-track experience. They would bypass her exploration of self and growth through lyrics such as “I can’t be your horse anymore,” on the first track, “Warrior.” Marling takes anyone willing to listen on a journey filled with both confusion and eye-opening revelations.
Marling’s work takes effort, to say the least. Each track sounds frightfully similar, but the magic of her work lies in the lyrics. Upon first listen of the album, and any of her work, the music can feel monotonous at times, but when listeners pay attention, it’s worth the effort.
The album’s final track, “Worship Me,” showcases Marling’s strength not only through unwavering guitar work, but the lyrics, “Yes, I might be blind, but I am free. Don’t you try and take that away from me.” Regardless of any questions she may have raised about herself earlier in the album, the verdict is clear — she’s confident in her ability.
Several songs feature Marling’s spoken word technique, specifically “Strange.” While they’re not bad, they fall short in comparison to the album’s strongest tracks such as “False Hope,” “I Feel Your Love” and “Divine.” Their message is still strong, but it’s translated in a choppy fashion.
Some of Marling’s previous albums harbored a lighthearted feel, but this particular production is more introspective. Listeners will find a blend of finger-picking guitar rhythms and a steady drumbeat carry “Short Movie” along from start to finish.
Her musical ability is impressive, but her poetic lyrics are what make her songs mesmerizing. Even though Marling’s music may never be conventional mainstream material, it will find meaning among those who take the time to really hear the message she has to share.
You can reach Greta Jines on Twitter @TheGretaJines.