Liverpool Sound and Vision Rating 8.5/10

The phenomenon of Patternicity is one that is a fascinating psychological challenge to understand, to wrestle with whilst knowing all the time that it cannot be disputed as it is so engrained into the human existence, whether we actively seek patterns to explain the world and the universe or are overwhelmed by the continual observance and use it to dictate our life to the point that every event, every incident is an indicator to how the day will unfold, we must be mindful of how it will impact others, how perhaps the inclination will determine their lives as well.

Patterns In Repeat, the brand-new recording from the prolific British folk musician Laura Marling, is perhaps an apt investigation into a realm of psychology, an accumulation of wealth in education and invested time in which Ms. Marling has, whilst not immersing herself in the studio for the longest time of her career, has been kept busy in other ways, pattern finding perhaps as new responsibilities and insights take her on a new route of exploration.

This exploration of the self, of witnessing humanity show colours that are not always tolerable bears fruit in the recording, one that defies an expectation of another period of women in music where they were forced to choose between one direction or another to be seen as contributing to society: instead Ms. Marling takes it on with style, panache, and reasoning in a way that is sublime, undeniable, and forceful…even in the application of the sensitive and thoughtfully sympathetic she has always presented her vision.

Mostly recorded in her own home. Laura Marling brings tracks such as the opener Child Of Mine, No One’s Going To Love You Like I Can, Interlude (Time Passages), Lullaby, Caroline, and the excellent The Shadows, expertly and timely showcase the passion within the artist, the sense of empathy, the realm of consideration, subtly penetrating into the listener’s own psyche and offering solace as memories resurface and linger in anticipation of the profound reveal.

In a world that feels very much on the brink, of the patterns that constantly catch our eye and bring forth feelings of dread and love, Patterns In Repeat is to be taken as a measure of perspective, a delicate holding of the self in care and one that understands the very human experience of existence.

A terrifically involved recording, one of genuine pleasure.

Ian D. Hall