Marcus Mumford is, without a doubt, the most talented human being to ever live. His voice is distinct and angelic and just about any adjective you can think of that means the same thing as amazing. Add Ben Lovett's piano mastery, Winston Marshall's guitar skills, and Ted Dwayne's ability to shred on a bass, and you get the heavenly music-making group that is Mumford and Sons. Mumford and Sons has released three major albums to date, with additional singles and live recordings, and I have yet to be disappointed. Their music ranges from folk to alternative and their lyrics are so beautifully written. They really have a way with words. Whether you're their number one fan (which you're not, because that's me) or you've never even listened to them, I've put together what I consider to be the meanings behind some of their greatest songs:
Album: "Sigh No More" (2009)
"Sigh No More" is the most underrated of the three albums. The lyrics of these songs make me want to cry, smile, laugh, and scream all at the same time. Although the majority of the album focuses on a calm and mellow sound, this record can be played in just about any setting and appreciated just the same.
"White Blank Page"
This one is all about conflicting feelings, and it's pretty much a break up song. For anyone going through a rough time, this will really hit home.
"I Gave You All"
This song is so incredibly moving. Its pretty much a continuation of the previous break up song, saying that he gave her all of his heart, and just because of one mistake, she is throwing it all away. There are tons of things to interpret in this song.
"Awake My Soul"
I think that this song is kind of an epiphany in some ways. It is so beautiful.
"After The Storm"
My favorite lyrics ever written by Marcus are in this song, "There will come a time you'll see, with no more tears, and love will not break your heart but dismiss your fears. Get over your hill and see what you find there, with grace in your heart and flowers in your hair." I interpret this to be about forgiveness. You have to forgive those who have wronged you in order to love yourself.
Album: "Babel" (2012)
I remember waking up at midnight (on a school night) to purchase and listen to this album the very second it was released. At first listen, I was really surprised with the sound of this album, but I think that's what makes it so good. "Babel" has a more raw and unedited feel to it, and it definitely highlights the folky, banjo-playing side of the band.
"Lover of The Light"
This song is about surrounding yourself with people (or someone, I guess) who brings out the best in you. He talks about admiring someone who is a "lover of the light" and I think that that is a beautiful way to describe a person. I also have a thing for songs that lead directly into the next, which happens to be "Lover's Eyes."
"Lover's Eyes"
I think I ultimately love this song because its a really nice contrast to the previous song.
"Where Are You Now"
This particular song really highlights the style of music that Mumford and Sons perfects so well. It's the album closer to "Babel", and just a really nice note (literally) to leave off on.
Album: "Wilder Mind" (2015)
Most bands these days put their talent to the side in order to compromise and fit in with popular music. This is not the case for these men. "Wilder Mind," in my opinion, is not only my favorite Mumford album, but probably my favorite album I've ever owned. Every single song on this record is so good, which is really hard to accomplish.
"Tompkin's Square Park"
This song is the definition of a perfect window's down song. Trust me.
"Wilder Mind"
This song has, quite possibly, my favorite lyrics of any song ever. It's all about accepting yourself, and realizing that its okay to not have everything together all the time. We're blessed with wild minds and although that can be overwhelming, its also something really fascinating.
"Only Love"
Similar to "Wilder Mind," this is a feel-good song. It can turn your entire day around if you let it.
I don't know how many people will actually listen to these songs, but if you do, you will most definitely not be disappointed. The music that these men make is unlike any other sound. They are true to themselves, and true to what music should be: real.