Devil's Spoke
Laura Marling · 2010
11 min · 3 tracks · pop rock
Laura Marling's 'Devil's Spoke' intertwines haunting melodies with intricate storytelling, showcasing her lyrical prowess and folk roots.
Top tracks — play these first
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Devil’s Spoke (radio edit) — This track serves as the thematic centerpiece of the album, blending traditional folk influences with contemporary sensibilities and showcasing Marling's signature storytelling ability.
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Devil’s Spoke — The longer version expands on the themes introduced in the radio edit, allowing for a deeper exploration of the song's narrative arc and emotional resonance.
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Hope in the Air (live from the Royal Festival Hall) — This live track captures Marling's raw vocal power and connection with her audience, emphasizing her ability to convey complex emotions through performance.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The single displays strong songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.
What we noticed
- The title track features a prominent acoustic guitar riff that drives the song, with layered harmonies building throughout.
- The live track showcases a more stripped-down arrangement, highlighting Marling's vocal delivery and lyrical nuances.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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5/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — Helped solidify Marling's place in indie folk, gaining critical acclaim.
- Career context
- Released as part of Laura Marling's early discography, 'Devil's Spoke' came shortly after her acclaimed debut album, 'Alas, I Cannot Swim'. At this point in her career, Marling was establishing herself as a prominent voice in the British folk scene, following her rise to fame after winning the BRIT Award for Best Female Solo Artist in 2011.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Phoebe Bridgers· Julien Baker· Lucy Dacus
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Devil’s Spoke
A pivotal moment occurs when the narrative shifts from recollection to direct address, drawing listeners into an intimate dialogue.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Devil’s Spoke (radio edit) 2:59
- 2 Devil’s Spoke 3:38
- 3 Hope in the Air (live from the Royal Festival Hall) 4:52
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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