ALBUM OF THE WEEK

SELF-TITLED MARCUS MUMFORD ★★★✩✩

Cannibal, the debut single from Marcus Mumford, contained the shocking revelation that he was sexually abused as a boy aged six. From that starting point, his first full solo album outside of his long-time band, Mumford & Sons, explores the feelings of guilt and hopelessness he has experienced over the years.

It’s a tough listen, but there is also release, and sincere artistry that tends towards a stripped-back take on classic American heartlands rock.

These songs, which range from the plaintive Only Child to the freewheeling Better Off High, come with their own power. They are solid works of songwriting delivered with deep feeling, and bolstered with the help of female collaborators like Brandi Carlile and Phoebe Bridgers.