Mumford & Sons Release New Single ‘Malibu’ From Upcoming Album

Mumford & Sons have made an emphatic return with the release of “Malibu,” the opening track from their highly anticipated new album, RUSHMERE. This rousing new song marks their first album since 2018's Delta and is a testament to their distinctive blend of folk rock and poignant lyricism. Co-produced by the band alongside nine-time Grammy award winner Dave Cobb, “Malibu” is a spiritual and uplifting tune that encapsulates the essence of the band’s dynamic sound. The track is characterized by lively acoustic guitar, banjo, and piano, which harmoniously build to a crescendo as lead vocalist Marcus Mumford passionately delivers the heartfelt lines: “You are all I want / You’re all I need / And I’ll find peace beneath the shadow of your wings.” This track sets an inspirational tone for RUSHMERE, promising a revitalized phase for the band.

Reflecting on the creation of “Malibu,” Marcus Mumford shared that it was the first song written when the band reconvened in Los Angeles in early 2023. The recording process with Dave Cobb, an esteemed producer known for his work in reviving and polishing Americana and country sounds, captured a rawness and authenticity that felt quintessentially Mumford & Sons. The band members were unanimous in their sentiment that “Malibu” had to introduce RUSHMERE, as the song intrinsically resonates with their core identity and musical roots. This album draws upon a particularly fertile period of creativity for the band, tracing back to their origins in a leafy suburb of London at Rushmere Pond—a significant location where the band members first dreamed of forming the group that would come to define modern folk pop.

RUSHMERE, set for release on March 28, represents not only new music for Mumford & Sons but their first project as a trio since the departure of banjoist Winston Marshall in 2021. The thematic and creative inspiration for the album is deeply entwined with the band's foundational beginnings. The album was recorded across notable locations, including RCA Studio A in Nashville, Marcus’ studio in Devon, and another production spot in Savannah, GA, allowing the band to weave diverse cultural sonic elements into their music. This cross-continental approach aids in embedding both nostalgia and innovation within the tracks, promising a richly textured auditory experience for listeners.

The band is gearing up for a sold-out intimate club tour, set to kick off on March 5 in Amsterdam and conclude on March 26 at the Brooklyn Paramount in New York. This tour symbolizes a return to basics, allowing Mumford & Sons to reconnect with audiences in smaller, iconic venues reminiscent of their earlier days. The tour dates, already sold out within an hour, showcase the enduring fan devotion to a band that has shaped much of the modern landscape of folk and rock music. While London’s O2 Forum Kentish Town will see the band revisiting their home turf, the global locations signal a universal appeal that has only grown during their years away from the recording studio.

“Malibu” follows the release of the album's lead single and title track, “Rushmere,” which has already become a favorite on British radio. The song continues to climb charts, driven by its emotive narrative and robust instrumentals. Known for their engaging performances, Mumford & Sons have also revisited the stage at high-profile events like the 50th anniversary celebration of Saturday Night Live, where they performed famed classics like Simon & Garfunkel’s “The Boxer” alongside Jerry Douglas, highlighting their versatility and reverence for musical history.

RUSHMERE promises to be a pivotal release for Mumford & Sons, underscored by the reflective yet forward-moving spirit captured in “Malibu.” This album not only embraces their roots but also paves the way for future musical explorations. As the anticipation for March 28 builds, fans and newcomers alike can expect a project that embodies the heart and evolution of Mumford & Sons—a band at the intersection of introspection and artistic expansion.