5/6
In keeping with Sigh No More, Babel hits hard against the heartstrings, yet has an unmistakable anger beneath the surface. Blending bluegrass with Scottish folk style, Mumford & Sons have a sound that is distinctive and a welcome departure from mainstream angst. There is genuineness to their lyrics and a precise, striking way of expressing repentance without submission.
Babel feels like a response to their Sigh No More. The themes of grace, and tenacity in the face of love continue into quiet retrospect and impassioned determination to survive the loss of love. It also possesses a maturity that the first album did not have.
The orchestration on this album is wonderful, with a precise understanding of where to raise a complex storm of music and where to drop down to the simplest cord progression, complementing the lyrics (or their lack) perfectly. This balance also makes the lyrics incredibly easy to hear, as often quiet is used to emphasize them.
Overall this album is passionate and evocative without being melodramatic. I loved it.
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