Sons of Folk

Mumford & Sons, whose name sounds like a plumbing firm, are one of the most interesting acts to make it onto the American music charts in recent years.  They are British folk rockers at a time when bring British, rockers, and aware of folk music means that you are the epitome of lameness - or Ian Anderson, which some would insist is the same thing.  Led by Marcus Mumford, Mumford & Sons play acoustically centered rock and roll with high spirits, a great deal of energy, and rootsy, Americana-inspired arrangements that throw in everything from acoustic guitars and dobros to mandolins, banjos, and accordions, their lyrics drawing inspiration from classical and Christian parables.  Not exactly the kind of band that would back Justin or Miley . . . though they did back Bob Dylan.       

Critical reaction to Mumford & Sons is decidedly mixed, with some rock scribes impressed with their commitment to their music and other critics finding fault with Marcus Mumford's Bono-style approach to conveying spiritual longing and fulfillment.  Then there's that question of authenticity . . . the modern, precise style to their playing that would seem at odds with Americana and even the English folk traditions that one would expect such a band to adhere to.  But Marcus Mumford doesn't care much about that authenticity, noting Dylan's own re-invention as a Woody Guthrie-styled troubadour despite having had a nice middle-class background.

So what do I think Mumford & Sons? Well, they're no Lindisfarne (who also backed Dylan), but they make music that gets my attention.  There is a strident veneer to their sound, and Marcus Mumford's voice can be grating, but they do play and sing with a lot of heart; even at their weakest, they're still interesting.  Perhaps if the rock scene were healthier these days, I wouldn't think much of them.  But I appreciate any commercial success from any rock band in an age when rock seems to be circling the drain - and it's worth noting that Mumford & Sons have sparked interest in like-minded roots-rock groups like the Old Crow Medicine Show and the Lumineers, who don't seem to have anything resembling an authenticity problem.

But can it last? In September 2013, Mumford & Sons announced that they were going on an indefinite hiatus, which does not bode well for the sudden folk-rock revival they've been a part of.  Mumford & Sons could end up being one of the most important bands of the 2010s.  Or, they could easily be forgotten in a year.  Remember, two years ago we were all talking about Foster the People; now, it seems the only people who are waiting for their second album are their relatives.  But Mumford & Sons, having clicked with pop fans seeking an alternative to hip-hop and the kind of extravagant pop typified by Beyoncé and her ilk, have clearly demonstrated that there's a hunger for something more substantial than "Who Rule the World."  Time will tell if they can continue satisfying it.