Music Review: Mumford & Sons

By Sarah Nisbet
Ever wonder if you’re a hipster? Well for a quick self check ask yourself the question, “Do I like Mumford & Sons?” If your answer is yes, you just might be the embodiment of the increasingly vague definition of a hipster. However, the phrase is not mutually exclusive and not all who like the indie rock gods Mumford & Sons have to be a hipster, so don’t freak out. Whether hipster or not, many people can find at least one song by Mumford & Sons that they enjoy, which is why the band has gained a massive following since their debut.

From their emergence onto the musical stage in 2007, Mumford & Sons quickly became a crowd favorite through their first album Sigh No More. Two years later, the popular band recently released their second album Babel on September 24, 2012. Led by the gritty voice of frontman Marcus Mumford, the band continually perform at iconic venues to sold out crowds. Their new album was mainly recorded during short breaks of their extensive tour. Babel continues the signature Mumford & Sons sound with a slightly more rock and roll feeling. Numerous instruments such as guitar, drums, keyboard, banjo, and mandolins are utilized throughout the album to maintain the band’s grassroots background. The lead single “I Will Wait” heightened the excitement and suspense to the release of the album; although, several tracks were prematurely leaked from the album that was years in the making. Babel did not disappoint for the die hard or newly established fan as the classic Mumford & Sons style progressed in their newest tracks such as “Whispers In The Dark” and “Hopeless Wanderer.” Even more songs are available on the deluxe edition of the album including “The Boxer.”
However, like so many other groups, the style of Mumford & Sons can become heavy and overwhelming since similar beats persist throughout the album. If Babel seemed like your kind of music, you should consider checking out the Avett Brothers. They share Mumford and Son’s alternative style with a bit more bluegrass. The Avett Brothers also recently released on September 11, 2012 titled The Carpenter. Both bands continue to gain popularity, and you should watch out for them in the future.