I’ll have to admit, Mumford & Sons are easily becoming one of my favourite new bands of this year.
As I write this, their album ‘Sigh No More’ is number 7 in the iTunes chart, so they must be doing something right, right?
Let’s see…
Track #1: Sigh No More – Many people have said that Mumford are a lot like Fleet Foxes. This track reflects this notion beautifully, as the melodic chanting lyrics are not far away from the Foxes’ style at all. I’d say Mumford & Sons are just that little bit more exciting, as this song proves.
Track #2: The Cave – You might recognize this song when you hear it because it’s appeared on several British TV adverts. It’s definitely one of my favourite tracks on the album because of its simplicity and, in a weird way, it’s extremely catchy. The tune behind it is not one you’re going to want to forget in a hurry.
Track #3: Winter Winds – This track was actually released in the UK in 2009 but missed out on the top 40 by just 4 places. I never heard it back then, but since, I’ve heard it several times on BBC’s radio 1 and I’m sure I’ve heard it a couple of times on TV, which just goes to show the growing status of this band. A perfect song.
Track #4: Roll Away Your Stone – No, it’s nothing to do with Jesus and the Easter story. It’s actually a lot less depressing and far more jolly than that story. The chirpy, fast tempo guitar and banjo work perfectly here with an extremely vintage feel.
Track #5: White Blank Page – Another of my favourites, this song is both haunting and inspirational. The lyrics are just perfect: not a single one doesn’t make you reflect on a certain time in your life when you were asking these questions. (“Oh tell me now, where was my fault in loving you with my whole heart?”) Sounds depressing, but it’s really just a flawless song.
Track #6: I Gave You All – Yes, you did, Mumford & Sons. You gave us all with this album. This track is definitely one of the more depressing, and could probably pass as a Death Cab song in terms of its lyrics. Scratching of steel guitar strings is always something I like to hear, and this song ticks this most important box.
Track #7: Little Lion Man – Apparently, this was Mumford’s first single release. Not many people could have heard it, because it’s simply wonderful, but again failed to appear in the UK Top 40. The chorus here is really quite catchy and beautifully British. I approve.
Track #8: Timshel – And we’re back to the chant-y loveliness that is easily comparable with Fleet Foxes. The way in which they chorally sing in this track is so haunting and beautiful that it could fit into any good movie soundtrack with ease.
Track #9: Thistle & Weeds – Not sure this is one of the best tracks here, but it’s certainly not boring. I love the chorus, but it’s really quite depressing. I suppose it’d be great for anyone looking to listen to some mourn-y music. The piano is also particularly good.
Track #10: Awake My Soul – Being a Christian, I really enjoy this song because of the biblical connotations it has. Of course, I love the song because of how it sounds too, but the way in which this track is just so heavily religious without being too implicit is beautiful. You don’t have to be Christian to like it either; the chorus is again very strong.
Track #11: Dust Bowl Dance – Unlike the other songs, this one kicks off with a soft piano, which is a lovely contrast which runs through the entire track. Of course, the banjo is still in tact. I’d say it’s actually the signature instrument of this band that really makes them stand out from other current indie bands in the UK.
Track #12: After The Storm – A beautiful song to end the album. Not the best of the bunch, but it’s pretty to listen to anyway.
Overall Rating: 
Published on March 8th, 2010 at 3:47 pm by Lauren
0