Released 10 years ago
Life in a Paper Boat
Kate Rusby · 2016
54 min · 12 tracks · folk music
A delicate blend of traditional folk melodies and contemporary storytelling woven together through ethereal vocals and intricate instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Life in a Paper Boat — This title track captures the essence of the album, exploring themes of vulnerability and transience through evocative lyrics and a haunting melody.
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The Witch of the Westmorland — A retelling of a traditional tale, this track highlights Rusby's ability to breathe new life into folklore while showcasing her rich vocal delivery.
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Only Desire What You Have — This song stands out for its introspective lyrics and gentle instrumentation, reflecting on contentment and the complexities of desire.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and craftsmanship, though it remains within established folk traditions.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a traditional folk song, setting a tone that blends seamlessly into contemporary narratives across the following tracks.
- Vocals are often layered with harmonies, creating a rich texture that complements the intricate acoustic instrumentation throughout.
- Several tracks feature shifts in tempo and dynamics, such as 'Only Desire What You Have', which introduces a more upbeat rhythm mid-album.
- 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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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. 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.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- evocative storytelling through song
- gentle pacing for reflection
- suitable for cozy evenings
- rich melodies for emotional depth
- captivating tales of folklore
Maybe skip if you
- seekers of fast-paced energy
- prefer modern production styles
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Released in early 2016, Life in a Paper Boat marks Kate Rusby's ninth studio album, following her critically acclaimed record Ghost. At this stage in her career, Rusby had solidified her position as a leading figure in British folk music, known for her unique interpretations of traditional songs and original compositions.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Laura Marling· Sophie Hunger· Nina Nastasia
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Benjamin Bowmaneer 3:49
- 2 Hunter Moon 5:01
- 3 The Ardent Shepherdess 3:47
- 4 Life in a Paper Boat 4:40
- 5 Only Desire What You Have 4:07
- 6 Hundred Hearts 4:14
- 7 The Mermaid 4:30
- 8 Pace Egging Song 3:40
- 9 The Witch of the Westmorland 6:34
- 10 I’ll Be Wise 5:06
- 11 Night Lament 5:06
- 12 Big Brave Bill 3:44
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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