“I know my weakness, know my voice, and I’ll believe in grace and choice.”
Two years ago in 2010, a little known band made their debut into the music world. With hits like “Little Lion Man” and “The Cave”, Mumford & Sons quickly grew a large following. Their first album “Sigh No More” has sold more than two million copies in the United States alone since its February 2010 release.
Now more than two years later, it’s safe to say that the music of Mumford & Sons has become even better. Released Tuesday, their second album “Babel” is currently number one on iTunes. “Babel” is filled with love, loss, and everything in between.
The album opens with the title track “Babel”. This is a strong dynamic start to the album. It shows how much the quality of the band has grown in the past two years. The track is filled with potent, impressive lyrics.
The album has several upbeat songs such as “I Will Wait” and “Hopeless Wanderer.” “Hopeless Wanderer” is apt to remind listeners of “Thistle and Weeds” from the last album “Sigh No More”. The song starts slowly and gradually grows into an intense and overwhelming chorus (in the best way possible of course). “Broken Crown” is also reminiscent of “Thistle and Weeds” as well as “Roll Away Your Stone.”
“Ghosts That We Knew” is by far one of the best songs on the album. The song and the lyrics truly showcase the talent of the band.With powerful and haunting lyrics like “you saw my pain, washed out in the rain,” the song is truly beautiful. In the chorus, the band harmonizes beautifully. This song is soft and moving; providing hope to those looking for it.
Marcus Mumford the lead vocalist of Mumford & Sons has a remarkable voice. His raw tone really helps the band to stand out from the rest of the singers and bands that are currently popular. His voice helps to contribute to the honesty behind the lyrics of their songs and their sound.
This is an album filled with songs that are sure to make you feel something. With their folk rock roots, a nod to the past and a nod to the present, the band appeals to several generations. Wearing almost disheveled clothes and playing banjos, the band gives off an indie vibe. If Mumford & Sons continues to produce albums like this, they’ll soon be legendary.
