Mumford & Sons: Stomp or Serenade?

Mumford & Sons continue to explore their evolving sound on their latest album, "Prizefighter." Produced by Aaron Dessner, the record strikes a balance between their well-known anthemic style and more delicate folk passages.

The album is notably rich with high-profile guest appearances. Marcus Mumford shares vocal duties with Chris Stapleton on "Here," a song reflecting on past regrets and future hopes. "Rubber Band Man" features Hozier and was co-written with Brandi Carlile, offering a romantic folk melody. A more subtle yet memorable track is "Badlands," a duet with Gracie Abrams that highlights the blend of Mumford's voice with Abrams' clear tone.

These collaborations enhance, rather than overshadow, the band's core sound. Tracks like "The Banjo Song" showcase their characteristic group vocals, while "Begin Again" and "Run Together" offer a more restrained version of their energetic "stomp." The title track and "Alleycat" lean towards a nuanced, gentler aesthetic reminiscent of artists like The National or Bon Iver.

Marcus Mumford's personal reflections are central to "Prizefighter." He delves into the spiritual aspects of fatherhood on "Conversation With My Son (Gangsters and Angels)" and confronts his own inner struggles on "Shadow of a Man." The album as a whole is described as steady, sturdy, and vulnerable, a testament to the band's continued artistic exploration and their ability to collaborate effectively.