Alas I Cannot Swim

Even though Laura Marling has a vagina and plays guitar, her debut, Alas I Cannot Swim, is anything but chick lit for the music crowd. Unlike other female vocalist, Marling remains firmly planted on the ground. She doesn't speak of love or hope, only loss. Lyrically, a melancholy theme of mental illness, death and loneliness prevails ("Oh I jumped into your grave and died,/And on my word you'll give up your whole life for me "), while a gorgeous string section and acoustic guitar solos highlight Marling's smoky vocals. The folk-tinged "You're No God," provides the illusion of a pop-esque reprieve minus the saccharine headache. Regina Spektor fans will relate to "Night Terror" with its dominant vocal stylings over a slow build and climax of instruments. At the ripe age of 18, Marling has already set such a high standard that it will be interesting to see where her career will go from here.

-Jenn

Laura Marling - You're No God (DL)
Laura Marling - Night Terror (DL)

*Bonus Note: Laura was once refused access to one of her own performances, for being underage, so instead she chose to perform on the street.