Laura Marling – Patterns In Repeat (Chrysalis/Partisan)

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Patterns in Repeat is the eighth album from Laura Marling, following her 2008 debut, Alas, I Cannot Swim. From the outset, her poetic lyrics, distinctive voice, and folk-inspired sound have drawn comparisons to Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. Over the years, her sound has evolved, blending complex and, at times, dark folk with experimental touches, such as the electric influence found on Short Movie and her work with Mike Lindsay as LUMP.

Marling’s lyrics frequently explore themes of identity and womanhood, often open to biographical interpretations. Her last album, Song For Our Daughter (2020), coincided with the birth of her own daughter, though Marling noted the title was more metaphorical. In contrast, Patterns in Repeat is deeply grounded in her real-life experiences of parenthood, family, and the passage of time. Recorded in her home studio, the album further reinforces its intimate and personal nature.

Laura MarlingThe authenticity of Patterns in Repeat is enhanced by its acoustic arrangements, delicate orchestration, and minimal production. Once again, Marling collaborates with Dom Monks (producer, known for working with Big Thief) and Rob Moose (Bon Iver, Phoebe Bridgers) for orchestral arrangements. Together, they create a stripped-back production that enhances the impact of the raw, emotional lyrics.

Motherhood is a dominant theme throughout the record. The opening track, Child of Mine, sets the tone with tender reflections on Marling’s journey into parenthood. This theme reappears in the penultimate track, Lullaby, where she expresses feelings of protection and warmth, singing, “safe in my arms, sleep my angel, you’re safe with me.” These lyrics echo the line “no one’s gonna hold your hand, like I can” from the earlier track No One’s Gonna Love You Like I Can.

The track, Patterns, introduces the album’s central theme: the repetition of life’s cycles. Driven by intricate guitar work, it has a leisurely pace that invites reflection on how life’s patterns shape our identities. In contrast, Your Girl stands out for its raw intensity, with both the lyrics and musicianship conveying deep vulnerability and longing.

On The Shadows, Marling’s melancholic tone—reminiscent of Leonard Cohen—evokes a sense of loss and longing, using religious imagery to powerful effect: “She’s leaving, she’s leaving / My altar, she’s leaving / Where will I go to pray?”

Laura MarlingThe instrumental Interlude (Time Passages) serves as a reflective pause at the midpoint of the album. The orchestral elements, provided by Rob Moose, set it apart from the predominantly acoustic sound of the rest of the album, adding a contemplative layer to the narrative.

Following this reflective moment is Caroline, a more playful track with a conversational and whimsical feel. Marling’s fragmented lyrical structure—such as “something something Caroline, la la la”—combined with hypnotic fingerpicking, gives the song a lightness while still reflecting on wistful emotions.

Looking Back features lyrics written by Marling’s father almost 50 years ago. This deeply personal song connects family history across generations, standing out as a poignant reflection on lineage and time. The inclusion of her father’s words adds a nostalgic and introspective dimension, making it one of the most moving moments on the album.

The album concludes with the title track Patterns in Repeat, a fitting closer that reinforces the core theme of life’s enduring cycles. While it echoes the earlier track Patterns, it carries a sense of closure and resolution, bringing together the album’s reflections on motherhood, family, and the domestic sphere. The song title mirrors the broader contemplation of life beginning, returning, and repeating.

Laura Marling‘s focus on motherhood adds new layers to her lyrical exploration of family, life, and aging. As she noted, her experience has given her an “enormous perspective” on the roles and relationships women navigate. Patterns in Repeat, is an album that is both deeply intimate and widely relatable . It stands as a testament to Marling’s artistic growth and insightful reflections on the evolving and circular nature of life.

John Bradbury

Laura Marling’s Patterns In Repeat is released Friday, October 25th. Click here to pre-order.

 

 

John Bradbury
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