8/10

Over the years, Martha Wainwright has proven herself to be one of the most consistent and forward-thinking names on the international folk scene. With a sound that always feels one step ahead of the crowd, she has managed to create a broad and succinct collection of offerings that bring true heart and emotion to her work. And while her father Loudon Wainwright III and brother Rufus Wainwright both made their long-awaited returns to the studio last year, she is now continuing her impressive streak with her sixth studio album 'Love Will Be Reborn', a record that pushes her direction even further.

While so many look to compare the Wainwrights against each other, it is clear that Martha has this more driven guise threaded throughout her work. Juggling the conformed and traditional sides of the folk aesthetic with more captivating and sprawling soundscapes, she is able to spin these wild webs of invention that never seem to falter. On 'Love Will Be Reborn' we get to experience a more confident and reassured artist at the helm. Each song has this distinctly lofty texture to it, creating an almost otherworldly listen that feels comfortable but could never be confused with anyone else.

This new release marks Martha Wainwright's first full-length in five years, but it feels like she has barely been away at all. 'Love Will Be Reborn' continues an incredible run of rich and enticing offerings from the frontwoman, and reestablishes her as one of the most transformative names around.