British folk-rock band Mumford & Sons released the first single from their upcoming third album, “Wilder Mind.” The track, titled “Believe,” has a much different sound from earlier singles by the band.
In what can only be described as a radical change in production, the band seems to have decided to go electric. The band is predominantly known for their acoustic, folk-like sound, as heard on previous single “Little Lion Man” from their first record and international radio hit “I Will Wait” from their successful sophomore album “Babel.” This new single, however, has little trace of acoustic music infused in it.
“Believe” starts off slowly, with lead singer Marcus Mumford’s familiar, raspy voice crooning with string instruments accompanying him. The rest of the band joins him as the song builds to a crescendo through the first verse and chorus. Without Mumford’s voice, the song would barely be recognizable if compared to the band’s first two albums. Banjos are traded for electric guitars and tiny kick drums are replaced by a full drum set as the band seems set on changing their style up.
At about the two minute mark, the song explodes into a full on guitar solo. From then on, the song reaches anthem status, as Mumford sings passionately, “I don’t even know if I believe, I don’t even know if I want to believe anything you’re trying to say to me.” The passion that the band has always put forth is obviously still with them even into their third album, but the medium in which they convey it is destined to change if this track is any indication of what the rest of the album might sound like.
Comparisons to Coldplay will undoubtedly arise, though I think Mumford & Sons will solidify their own unique flair to the electric-pop anthem collection with this song. The band, especially in their live performances, have always been known as passionate performers, and it will be interesting to see them expand their live sound with electric instruments and guitar solos. Every band seems to reach a point where change is necessary, and after two albums of good folk-rock music, it is high-time for the band to switch gears and possibly alienate some of their audience.
Bob Dylan, regarded as one of the most influential artists of all time, also switched from acoustic to electric in his career, and as a massive influence on the band, it may seem that Mumford & Sons are following in their hero’s footsteps. “Believe” has hit number one on the I-tunes chart already, and I am sure many people will be hearing the song on the radio very soon. The switch to making electric music may perhaps make or break the band, but in my opinion, they make it work in this first single. The album, “Wilder Mind,” is due out May 4. Look for Mumford & Sons live as they headline Bonnaroo and other major music festivals in support of the new album this summer.

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