London-based Mumford & Sons breathe new life into folk rock with powerful four-part harmonies, lightning-fast banjo picking, and pint-hoisting emotion.

Led by frontman Marcus Mumford, the band rocketed out of the UK indie-folk scene that also birthed Noah and the Whale and frequent collaborator Laura Marling. Although they formed less than two years ago, Mumford & Sons have found fast success, with their debut LP, Sigh No More, cementing their place as one of 2009’s most exciting acts.

Last time we caught the group in NYC, it was supporting Marling (and performing as her backing band) at the intimate Mercury Lounge; more recently, it was the main attraction during a CMJ showcase at the much larger Music Hall of Williamsburg. With the album still mostly available as an import, we’re sure that the coming months will see the vested, mustachioed crew bringing its stand-up bass, banjo, and acoustic-guitar driven show to increasingly larger spaces.

Visit Mumford & Sons on MySpace, check out their official site, join Marcus’ book club, download non-album track “Sister” for free, and buy the album.

Mumford & Sons – I Gave You All by reiatir