“Wilder Mind” proves tame

By Emma Lautanen
Staff Writer

“Wilder Mind” illustrates a once-unique band sadly resorting to simple lyrics and average melodies. Although it still ranks well above other music produced today, the album does not quite reach the quality Mumford and Sons has provided in their past work.

With relaxing instrumentals and toned-down vocals, “Wilder Mind” is more of an average and forgettable rock album than a fun and folksy collection of songs.

Mumford and Sons is a rock band originating from London, England. The group consists of lead singer Marcus Mumford, keyboard/pianist Ben Lovett, Winston Marshall on the banjo and electric guitar and Ted Dwane playing bass.

The band formed in 2007, releasing its first studio album, “Sigh No More,” in 2008. Next, “Babel” was introduced in 2012, and now Mumford and Sons have released their third album, “Wilder Mind.”

The band is well-known for its aggressive guitar/banjo strumming, matched with Mumford’s loud and passionate vocals. Mumford and Sons have also received many awards, including Grammys for both Best New Artist and Album of the Year with “Babel.”

With the combination of folksy banjos and unimaginable vocal range, it is no surprise Mumford and Sons have become so popular. Yet, the talent that caused the band to be so renowned is absent in its most recent album.

The main issue in “Wilder Mind” is the strikingly mediocre song quality. Songs such as “Just Smoke” and “Hot Gates” are made up of anti-climactic melodies and lyrics that simply do not live up to the typical creativity and depth expected from Mumford and Sons, causing them to sound mundane.

“Wilder Mind” is disheartening due to the poor quality of the songs. Coming from a distinctively talented band like Mumford and Sons, the mainstream sound from their new album makes one wish they had stuck with their successful folksy style. To put it simply, “Wild Mind” is entirely lackluster.

“Wilder Mind” can be purchased digitally for $11.99 or in retail for $17.99.