#135 Mara Simpson - In This Place

We are thrilled to introduce you to Mara Simpson’s third studio album In This Place, released this Autumn on Mara’s own independent label Downfield Records. The UK based multi-instrumentalist has already graced us with her first single Reason ahead of the album release, which was featured by Cerys Mathews on Radio 6Music.

In This Place is a hearty blend of alt-folk, analogue synth and classical composition, that encompasses themes of taking back control and quiet rebellion. For Mara 2019 was a year spent consumed by worry, whilst in and out of hospital with her one year old daughter, she was left feeling like she was playing a constant game of catch up with a world that wouldn’t slow down. With songs for her new album ready to record, Mara found herself working in a toxic studio environment that caused her to put the project on hold.

However, when Mara called her dream producer Ellie Mason, of Voka Gentle, she felt re-energised, and together the pair started working on a new record. “I’ve been more hands on with this album than I’ve ever been, taking a much more active role in production. Through the whole process Ellie has heard my voice, and been open to any possibility”, explains Mara. This new creative process and playfulness took Mara to Brightons oldest church to record four part harmonies, and layer a New Zealand birdsong with tape delayed piano for the new album.

Mara hopes to promote a gentle, yet radical shift toward kindness that creates a warmth that can be both heard and felt across her new record and we think In This Place has achieved just that!

In This Place is available to stream on Spotify, have a listen below….