Babel by Mumford and Sons (sorry, no album cover image here, google takes them off)
Released September 25th, 2012
Sound: They have a pretty unique folk sound considering they are labeled "Alternative." A lot of banjo and guitars. Marcus Mumford (lead vocals) has a deep, raspy, authentic voice that sounds very honest and pleading. Song formats are mostly verse then chorus then verse then chorus, unlike a lot of old folk that is just verse - verse - verse. Good luck trying to name another band that sounds just like them. Bob Dylan would be proud... 7/10
Lyrics: There seems to be some chips on the shoulders of these English lads. On Holland Road: "...With your heart like a stone...But you cut me down, you cut me down.." On The Boxer (Only Deluxe version): "...Asking only workmen's wages, I get no job offers..." There is an overall tone of being wounded, yet pushing through the hurt to the hope. "I still believe, though there's cracks you'll see." Life is not easy, Mumford gets that. There are ups and downs. But "set out to serve the Lord" and don't be a "fraud." Finally, beware the Broken Crown track, there's repeated foul language sadly. I feel like they just had to keep up their reputation of Little Lion Man from their last record, pretty lame. 8/10
Impression: Not very different from their last album. Obviously tighter musicianship, better mixing quality. I do really love both their records, they are so personal and relatable. Not sure where they stand with their faith/religion, are they just singing about it to be relavent to their genre? Maybe I need to google some interviews of the band. Anyways this is a great album. Again, I'm curious what they are going to pull in the future, this album is very similar to their previous release. Maybe that's a good thing though, I wouldn't mind a little break from my normal Rock and Roll every couple years to enjoy some of London's folk finest. 7.5/10
Best Hits: Whispers in the Dark, Hopeless Wanderer, Below My Feet.
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