Once I Was An Eagle
Laura Marling · 2013
63 min · 16 tracks · pop rock
A haunting exploration of self intertwined with the raw intimacy of acoustic instrumentation and Marling's evocative storytelling.
Top tracks — play these first
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Take the Night Off Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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I Was an Eagle — This title track sets an introspective tone, weaving themes of vulnerability and resilience through its delicate melodies and poignant lyrics.
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Master Hunter — With its driving rhythm and assertive lyrics, this track highlights Marling's evolving narrative perspective, marking a bold declaration of independence.
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Where Can I Go? — This song encapsulates the central theme of searching for direction amidst uncertainty, blending ethereal vocals with haunting instrumentals that linger long after listening.
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 emotional depth, with cohesive pacing and distinct moments throughout.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a slow, contemplative track that sets a reflective tone, followed by a series of songs that gradually build in intensity.
- Marling's vocal delivery often features layered harmonies and intricate melodies, particularly in tracks like 'Master Hunter' and 'Where Can I Go?'.
- Several tracks incorporate spoken word elements or interludes, creating pauses that enhance the emotional weight of the surrounding songs.
- The final three tracks shift back to a more subdued atmosphere, concluding the album with a sense of introspection.
- Composition 25% of the score
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8/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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7/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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9/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Significant within its genre. 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
- steady pacing with gradual peaks
- introspective themes of love
- haunting melodies for solitude
- thoughtful reflections during quiet moments
- immersive journey through emotions
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer upbeat, fast-paced tracks
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — This album showcases Marling's artistic growth and received significant critical acclaim.
- Career context
- Once I Was An Eagle is Laura Marling's fourth studio album, released in 2013 after the critically acclaimed A Creature I Don't Know. By this point in her career, she had established herself as a significant voice in folk music, showcasing her evolution from a precocious talent into a mature artist with a distinctive lyrical style. This album solidified her status as a leading figure in the indie folk scene.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Phoebe Bridgers· Julien Baker· Lucy Dacus
Tracklist
- 1 Take the Night Off Start here 4:12
- 2 I Was an Eagle 4:21
- 3 You Know 2:30
- 4 Breathe 5:00
- 5 Master Hunter 3:16
- 6 Little Love Caster 5:52
- 7 Devil's Resting Place 3:14
- 8 Interlude 2:16
- 9 Undine 3:12
- 10 Where Can I Go? 3:40
- 11 Once 3:38
- 12 Pray for Me 5:05
- 13 When Were You Happy? (And How Long Has That Been) 3:53
- 14 Love Be Brave 3:04
- 15 Little Bird 5:40
- 16 Saved These Words 4:27
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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