Twenty-three years old. I say again, Laura Marling is 23 years old. I don’t know why this surprises me, but it does – in a positive way. I guess it’s just that what I hear come out of the speakers sounds like something from a soul who has been around the block once or twice.

This is Marling’s fourth album in five years, and her folk sensibilities gather a deeper and more intriguing sense of wordplay with every new release. Once I Was an Eagle is arguably her finest album to date. Its 16 tracks explore the ups and downs, the give and take, and, finally, the prize that comes with new love. It is her most coherent group of songs, seamlessly flowing from one to the next.

Highlights are ‘Where Can I Go?’ and ‘Master Hunter’. Marling is a refreshing albeit old-soul talent.

Lou Fulco