Back where they belong

   Mumford and Sons have retained that prestigious top spot in the album charts this week, and deservedly so. Babel is stunning, nothing short of what you expect from them.
   With 'Sigh No More', Mumford and Sons hit the ground running. Their album became a staple in a new, folk style of music. It was something my mum and myself blasted out of our rusty Ford Fiesta as we were speeding down the motorway at its top speed of 40mph. Everyone knew 'Little Lion Man' which made the band as big as they are today. Their hillbilly banjo and harrowing vocals just can't be mistaken, as you know it is one of their tracks when you hear it. The band are very down-to-earth lads, which I guess is one of the reasons their audience connect with them so well. You get a feeling they are gracious for every bit of support they get and are humble to see so many people love them.
 
   The album starts with title track 'Babel', which brings back the love that we all once felt for this band. It entails that signature banjo and Marcus' passionate vocals, which often sends a chill up my knobbly spine. You can't help but feel there's some root of mental pain with Marcus and the band, but if it means they keep bringing out music like this then I guess its not a bad thing (sounding a bit harsh there). Then comes 'Whispers In The Dark' and 'I will wait' which are both just equally as atmospheric as the other. The use of a constant melodic Banjo line is used which starts to get repetitive, but hey, thats just their style. Through tracks 4-8 the mood is toned down, as the band let the vocals and harmonisation take over and show their worth as one of the tightest sounding bands around at the moment. Simple guitar lines are used and beautiful, thought-provoking lyrics entice the audience for yet another astonishing few tracks. Then track 9, 'Hopeless Wanderer', is offered to us. Its more than a treat. They highlight every bit of why we rate them so highly, by mixing both their passionate and beautiful sounds to create one big built-up masterpiece. This is once again displayed in 'Broken Crown', which is possibly my favourite track on the album. Its sombre tones just make me want to listen on till the last note. 'Below My Feet' and 'Not With Haste' top off the album with a some crisp sounds, which make you realise you definitely don't regret buying the album. Bonus tracks are offered to you if you wish for any more magic, but the standout track being 'The Boxer' featuring the magnificent Paul Simon is the one to listen to.
   So for the second time, Mumford and sons have created yet another spectacular album which is just a treat to listen to. This could possibly be the album that cements them into a metaphorical greatness, and with a UK arena tour just ahead, i'm pretty sure that they will get there.
 
Charles.