When I pre-ordered the new Mumford and Sons album I had high expectations. As soon as I listened to the first single I knew those expectations would be surpassed; from the first note plucked on the banjo I was hooked.

Following the tradition of their last album Sigh No More, released in 2009, Mumford’s new album, Babel, provides an exceptional listening experience.

This album is filled with a wide range of folk and traditionally influenced tunes.

The titular song, “Babel,” kicks off the album with a bang. The acoustic guitar, banjo melody and steady rhythm mix together perfectly to create the signature sound that Mumford has become associated with.

Mumford continues this booming anthem style in the songs “I Will Wait,” “Broken Crown” and “Whispers in the Dark.”

Along with the high energy anthems come ballads, such as “Ghosts That We Knew” and “Not With Haste,” driven by slower piano pieces and intensive finger picking.

The band also performs a moving cover of “The Boxer,” first performed by Simon and Garfunkel.  The track is backed by the slide guitar provided by Jerry Douglas and vocals by Paul Simon.

Throughout the entire album, the band showcases their skills, perfectly blending guitar, banjo, mandolin and piano riffs.

Another important aspect of the album is the harmonizing vocals, with each member of the band singing at one point.

The blend of instruments and vocals gives the feeling as if you were singing folk tunes around a campfire or in an English pub.

Babel has a wide range of appeal for almost all music fans.

From modern ballads to folksy tunes driven by traditional instruments such as banjo and mandolin, this album is a must have for any music lover.

I give it 5 out of 5 stars.