mumford magic.

A little over a week ago I had the privilege of witnessing one of the greatest bands of our time (biases included) play their hearts out. And I have to say it was the best concert I've ever been to.

Of course, I'm talking about Mumford and Sons. They finally made their debut in Edmonton, and to a throng of loving fans, who gave Marcus Mumford a reason to sing with conviction.

From the instrumental lead-in, to every ending note, they had us on our feet. I don't care what others may say; that they're hipster music, that every one listens to them.
Marcus Mumford sang his heart out, and did it while playing a number of instruments. Ted Dwane, Ben Lovett and 'Country' Winston Marshall sang beautiful harmonies, causing us to want to join in.

Although Ted may look like a fierce lion with that heavy blonde facial hair and strange growling expressions, his bass playing (and occasional drum smashing), set the beat for each number.

Ben Lovett rocked it out on the keyboard, piano and accordion, all with a broken thumb! I had the benefit of being close enough to see such details (not to brag, I am a HUGE fan of theirs after all). I played the piano for a few years, and let me tell you, having a broken wrapped up thumb would be less than ideal. But Ben made it seem effortless, simply a part of his body.

'Country', as he is nicknamed, made love to his banjo. Almost literally. I don't think anyone could help but notice the way he moved and swayed, playing that thing as if it belonged solely to him.

My favourite parts, of course, were those slow, breath taking moments.

The ones where you couldn't help but stand in awe of what you were hearing. The unity of many voices, the slow strumming of the guitar, the stillness.
One of my favourites of theirs is Timshel (as noted by my tattoo). When they began to play, it felt as if I had died and gone to heaven. The line "you are not alone in this", captures the feeling of togetherness. That someone else out there is feeling the same, that there is a greater power holding us close.

Of course there were so many other great moments; the live brass and string ensembles, the backstage encore.

If you ever get the chance, go see them live! From the moment that I walked into that arena, I knew it was going to be life-altering (well almost).

Can you see the pure joy in my eyes?