Now isn't that a cracking start? Classic Mumford & Sons, gets me all emotional. But we're jumping the gun here, with two tracks beforehand. Title track "Babel" and "Whispers in the Dark" are typical of the band, a lovely folk-bluegrass riff, the varying tempos providing the atmosphere and sound that appeal to just about everyone in the world. As you've heard, "I Will Wait" is brilliant, and just about the best track off Babel, along with "Lover of the Light". The emotional, arguably depressing track that is "Broken Crown" reminds you that this isn't just a folk band, that there is more to Mumford & Sons than just folk, that they invoke depth and emotion to their music. The other tracks I would beg you not to skip past are "Holland Road", "Lovers Eyes" and "Hopeless Wanderer", because you'd be a fool to miss such wondrous music.

So, you see, when I first heard Sigh No More, the album completely blew my mind. It was unlike anything I'd heard - even though Mumford & Sons are grouped with the likes of Noah & The Whale and Laura Marling, I think that's slightly unfair. For me, Noah & The Whale are more indie than folk, and Laura Marling not quite folky enough. But Mumford & Sons get it just right - they make folk music modern and relevant in the competitive and ruthless music industry of today. I like the fact that they write such fantastic songs; songs which inspire love and happiness, and songs which make you feel sad when they feel sad. Babel is such a powerful album, in so many ways.


I don't think we really need to question the undeniable musical talents that Mumford & Sons exhibit in Babel. All of them are multi-instrumentalists, and their melee of wonderfully played instruments combine to make such a beautiful, sweet sound. It really makes you value music, it's one of those albums. Marcus Mumford's voice is equally as perfect, his unique voice a perfect finishing touch to the folk songs, which differentiates their music from anyone else. I can't express enough how much respect I have for Mumford & Sons, to play the genre of music they do, and to be so successful. But listening to Babel, and you know why.

Babel is utterly fantastic, and I'll be surprised if anything can knock it off the pedestal I've put it on for my album of the year. Babel is like your mum's roast dinner after a long time away - warm, comforting and completely delectable. You want it more and more, giving you a warm, loving feeling inside. But most of all, Mumford & Sons give you a smile. And isn't that what music is all about, after all?



Track-listing:

1. Babel
2. Whispers in the Dark
3. I Will Wait
4. Holland Road
5. Ghosts That We Knew
6. Lover of the Light
7. Lovers' Eyes
8. Reminder
9. Hopeless Wanderer
10. Broken Crown
11. Below My Feet
12. Not With Haste
13. For Those Below
14. The Boxer
15. Where Are You Now