Have You Heard About... Babel

Fran J — Thu, 08 Nov 2012 06:39:17 +0000

… the second album from Mumford and Sons? For bonafide Mumford and Sons fans, this second album was a long time coming after Sigh No More debuted in early 2010. For those of you who are unfamiliar with this rousing indie-folk quartet from London, it’s time to give Sigh No More a listen. Go ahead. I’ll wait!

So now that you’re thoroughly hooked on Mumford and Sons’ catchy rhythms and powerful lyrics, it’s time to give their latest album, Babel, a listen. Lead singer Marcus Mumford’s voice has been taken to epic heights, particularly on “Broken Crown” and “Lover of the Light,” and the pounding rhythms are as infectious as anything heard on Sigh No More.

Mumford and Sons are well-known for their electrifying live performances, and this CD captures that energy splendidly with its bold and unabashedly emotional sound. Give Babel a listen, and I guarantee you’ll be singing and foot-stomping as if your life depended on it.

Reviewed by Katie (staff)

Have You Heard About... Sigh No More

Fran J — Thu, 01 Mar 2012 07:00:12 +0000

… British indie folk/rock group Mumford & Sons? Their debut album, Sigh No More, is wildly popular both at home and here in the US. It’s not hard to tell why after listening to the gritty vocals, heart-felt lyrics, and beautiful music.

Love is a running theme throughout the album – love of family, friends, lovers and God; heartbreak and heartache; deserving love and denying love; standing by those you love and standing up for yourself. The songs are a good blend of fast and slow, with strong rhythms that will keep your toes tapping. Winston Marshall’s banjo is particularly good, with intricate picking featured in several tunes.

The one downside I found is that the lyrics are occasionally difficult to make out against the music. However, a second listening (no hardship, I assure you) helps, as does looking through the accompanying booklet.

Reviewed by Fran (staff)

Waukegan Public Library - folk music

Have You Heard About... Babel

Have You Heard About... Sigh No More