Laura Marling’s new record, Short Movie, isn’t as electric guitar-based as first single “False Hope” might have led one to believe. But it’s definitely a change of pace: “Strange” (below) is a fiery, talk-sing folk tune, skipping formal structure for a bluesy rant and ramble. Off-kilter material like this is a testament to Marling’s ability to captivate a cut with little more than her assured vocal delivery and an inspired point of view. Meanwhile, “I Feel Your Love” wouldn’t be out of place on previous sets — it’s sparse with a hint of lush strings, building towards something that’s just as captivating as “Strange,” yet perhaps even stranger, in a more melodic way. And just in case you think the promise of going electric has gone by the wayside, Marling also shared a different take. Check out a session clip below with her band performing the latter cut, distorted a bit and plugged in.
Ethan Johns, Featured, Jon Brion, Laura Marling, Ray LaMontagne, Ryan Adams