In typically folksy fashion, Mumford & Sons have returned with "I Will Wait" the debut single off the band's upcoming sophomore effort, "Babel," that was unveiled online on Tuesday afternoon (Aug. 7).
At times both hopeful and hopeless, "I Will Wait" showcases bandleader Marcus Mumford's maturation both in terms of songwriting and singing. It fits in comfortably with the songs on the band's debut album, "Sigh No More," yet signals a concerted and promising step forward into heavier territory.
Mumford & Sons Debut New Songs at Tour Kickoff
"I feel heavy into your arms," he sings, before optimistically rhapsodizing about how "these days of darkness which we've known / will blow away with this new sun."
The band performed "I Will Wait" and a handful of other new songs at its tour kickoff in Hoboken, N.J. last week. Their trek continues with their first "Gentlemen of the Road" stopover in Bristol, Conn. this Saturday.
Meanwhile, "Babel" is set to be released on Sept. 25 on Glassnote Records. "Sigh No More," which earned the group a Grammy nod for Best New Artist, has sold 2.4 million copies, according to Nielsen SoundScan.
