You have to hand it to Laura Marling. Not only is she the singer songwriter of the moment, but she is also not afraid to invite some exceptionally talented friends to join her on stage for some folk blended acoustic magic.

A sell-out, seated crowd at the Southampton Guildhall was treated to some excellent support from Aussie folksters Boy & Bear and London’s Alessi’s Ark, before Marling took to the stage.

Normally the support acts are not always worthy in a short review, but after the great performances put in, both deserve praise for their arresting, eclectic and unique sets, which had members of the audience stealing the nearest available chair to listen, as if it was their very own show.

Of course, before Marling started she had work to do, and it is fair to say she did not disappoint.

Straight into popular track Devil’s Spoke, the crowd were more than eager to hear her excel in the live environment her recorded voice strives to bring to her fans.

Through the steady strumming and tempo of Ghosts to the delicate ache of What He Wrote, Marling kept the audience enthralled throughout.

At one point laying down the challenge to whistle along, the soft yet powerful songstress knew instantly that no one could keep up with her own musical ability during one of her solo performances.

If there is one criticism it was that nobody was ready for the final song when she warned us she did believe in encores.

But it’s just another brave move from Marling, who already knows how to leave her audience wanting more.