On April 2, 2025, Mumford & Sons took to the Aviva Studios stage in Manchester for a live-streamed show that showcased not only their latest music but also their enduring hits. This intimate concert was part of Amazon Music's City Sessions, a series that highlights emerging and established artists in unique settings. What made this performance particularly noteworthy was the recent release of their new album, RUSHMERE, and the band's evolution into a trio. In celebrating their musical journey, they resonated strongly with fans around the globe.
The release of RUSHMERE marks a pivotal moment for Mumford & Sons, with the band releasing their first album as a trio following the departure of Winston Marshall. The album, which dropped on March 28, 2025, is characterized by a blend of folk, rock, and new stylistic elements that reflect their growth and adaptation over the years. Band members Marcus Mumford, Ted Dwane, and Ben Lovett are redefining their sound while staying true to the emotional depth that has attracted fans since their break-out album Sigh No More in 2009.
Historically, Mumford & Sons' music has combined intricate harmonies, acoustic instrumentation, and anthemic choruses. With RUSHMERE, they explore new soundscapes while maintaining their core identity. The album has been described as a journey—a reflection of personal experiences and collective growth. Critics suggest that the absence of Marshall has allowed the remaining members to experiment more freely with their sound.
The concert at Aviva Studios, featured both new tracks from RUSHMERE and beloved classics from their extensive catalog. The live-stream event was also available on Prime Video and Amazon Music’s Twitch channel, allowing fans worldwide to join the celebration.
The setlist included:
Among the performances, a stripped-back rendition of "Timshel" captured the intimate atmosphere, revealing the band's versatility and vocal strength. The inclusion of diverse tracks appealed not only to new listeners but also to the fanbase that has grown alongside them for over a decade.
In the lead-up to the show, the band expressed their excitement through social media, sharing rehearsals and insights into their preparation. During the concert, Mumford reflected on their journey as artists, noting how their shared experiences have enriched their music and connections with fans. This sentiment resonated deeply throughout the performance, creating a sense of community both in the venue and online.
The City Sessions initiative represents a strategic approach by Amazon Music to create exclusive artist events that spotlight musical talent in an accessible and innovative way. Past performances have included notable acts like Kings of Leon and Nelly Furtado, and Mumford & Sons' participation underscores their status as influential artists in the industry. With concerts streamed directly to fans' devices, the new format broadens the reach of live music and fosters a more inclusive environment for global audiences.
As RUSHMERE is poised to reach the top of UK album charts, the band is shifting gears towards a US and European tour that is set to include over 20 live dates. On May 25, 2025, Mumford & Sons is also scheduled to perform at Radio 1's Big Weekend in Liverpool, marking an exciting upcoming chapter for the band.
Mumford & Sons' concert is a testament to their adaptability and resilience in the ever-changing music landscape. Their robust back catalog continues to serve as a foundation as they navigate new frontiers and redefine their artistic vision.
Moving forward, the trio's collaboration will likely evolve as they continue writing and performing together. Given the band's history of experimentation with sound, fans can anticipate more innovative albums that push boundaries while retaining the trademark Mumford essence.
Concert-goers and viewers who tuned into the live stream have expressed their enthusiasm online. Reviews from music critics have lauded the band's performance and the emotional weight of the new material. The networking opportunities presented by Amazon Music’s City Sessions are also creating buzz about the future potential collaborations within the industry.
Mumford & Sons’ recent concert at the Aviva Studios is more than just a celebration of their new album; it is a reflection of their journey and growth as artists. With the duo’s commitment to evolving their sound, the future looks promising as they connect with fans both old and new. As they prepare for a summer tour, the excitement surrounding RUSHMERE and their upcoming performances promises to usher in a new era for the band.
RUSHMERE is the latest studio album by Mumford & Sons, exploring themes of change, growth, and personal experiences while emphasizing the band's evolution after the departure of Winston Marshall.
The concert was live-streamed on Amazon Music and Twitch. Viewers can check those platforms for highlights or potential rebroadcasts.
Mumford & Sons’ performance was part of Amazon Music's City Sessions series, which features intimate live music events aimed at showcasing both established and emerging artists.
Yes, the band is gearing up for a US and European tour, including over 20 dates, and they will also be performing at Radio 1's Big Weekend in Liverpool in May 2025.
Fans can follow the band's official social media pages, visit their website, or subscribe to music platforms like Amazon Music and Twitch for real-time updates on performances and releases.
Through their dynamic influences, performance style, and collaborative energy, Mumford & Sons continue to stand at the forefront of the music scene, innovative and compelling as ever.