What makes The Marble Downs by Trembling Bells notable?

The Marble Downs received positive critical acclaim, particularly from publications like The Guardian and Mojo, highlighting its inventive songwriting and emotional depth. This record helped strengthen Trembling Bells' reputation as significant contributors to the contemporary folk movement in the UK. Upon the release of The Marble Downs in 2012, Trembling Bells were establishing themselves within the UK folk-rock scene, following their previous album, 2010's Ferron. This album marked a continued exploration of their unique sound, combining traditional influences with modern sensibilities, solidifying their artistic identity.

How many songs are on The Marble Downs?

The Marble Downs has 10 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

The Marble Downs

Trembling Bells · 2012

48 min · 10 tracks

Ethereal harmonies and vivid storytelling intertwine with folk-infused melodies, creating a hauntingly immersive listening experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Made a Date (with an Open Vein) — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its darkly poetic lyrics and intricate instrumentation that captures the listener's attention immediately.
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Ain't Nothing Wrong With a Little Longing — This song stands out for its poignant exploration of desire and yearning, conveyed through lush harmonies and dynamic shifts in musical intensity.
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Love Is a Velvet Noose — The track's blend of melancholy lyrics and beautiful melody illustrates the band's ability to evoke complex emotions while maintaining an engaging sonic landscape.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

77 /100

Alpine

Higher than 86% of albums we've rated

The album blends intricate songwriting with strong production, resulting in a distinct sound within its genre.

What we noticed

The album features layered vocal harmonies that often intertwine, creating a rich texture across multiple tracks.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 2/10

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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 I Made a Date (with an Open Vein) 6:34
2 I Can Tell You're Leaving 4:36
3 Ferrari in a Demolition Derby 4:15
4 Ain't Nothing Wrong With a Little Longing 6:55
5 Excursions Into Assonance 4:22
6 Every Time I Close My Eyes (We're Back There) 5:51
7 Love Is a Velvet Noose 3:39
8 My Husband's Got No Courage in Him 2:16
9 Riding 3:13
10 Lord Bless All 6:45

What to play next

Listen next

Dungeness (album)

2018

Go back to

Carbeth

2009

Full Trembling Bells discography Artists like Trembling Bells

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