I’ve been waiting for four years. On September 25th, 2012, Mumford and Sons finally released their much-awaited album “Babel.” The last full album they released was in 2009, so it was in due time that they released another. The English, London based band is known for it’s clear folk sound, amazing string riffs, and intensely powerful lyrics.

The first track provides the album’s namesake, Babel. It’s really a very angry sounding song, with lead singer Marcus Mumford’s beautifully heavy voice layered over a variety of wailing string instruments.

The album continues on with “Lover of the Light,” and the previously released “I Will Wait.” Both of these songs were a little less angry, and a bit more just sad. The British slang mixed in with the familiar sound of their twanging instruments reminds us of who the band is, and where they come from. Even if they are a little less fiery than “Babel,” the chorus usually provides some of the albums almost characteristic angst.

The next songs actually do get a little softer, and the softness is finally genuine. “Lovers Eyes” is in reality a very, very emotional song. “Do not ask the price I pay, I must live with my quiet rage,” is part of the chorus. I think it shows a little more depth to the band, and humanizes them, puts a why to their ways if you will.

The closing song proves what we all knew would happen anyway. “Not With Haste” is possibly the most peaceful, understanding song on the entire album. The tracks are essentially a journey. It starts angry, and moves on to an almost defeated, hopeful sound. Written from the road of their tour, it pours all the anger and sadness of being away from their home and their families into one organic, beautifully complete album.