Mumford and Sons finally returned to Cardiff and delivered a show that felt big enough for a stadium. In truth, it probably should have been one. Their songs mark moments in so many people’s lives, so the mix of ages in the crowd made complete sense. Younger fans who discovered them through Babel stood side by side with long-time followers who first fell in love with Little Lion Man. And with Cardiff being one of the last three UK arena dates on this tour, plenty had travelled in for the occasion.
The night began with American country star Sierra Ferrell, whose smoky tones and blooming floral dress set the tone beautifully. Her band, all in cowboy hats, lined the stage with an easy charm that blended folk, bluegrass and West Country warmth. She felt like the opening chapter of a great story, perfectly placed ahead of Mumford and Sons.
After a longer reset than usual, the lights dimmed and the band walked out to a deafening roar. They opened with a trio of tracks: Run Together, Babel and Rubber Band Man, and suddenly the arena felt huge. Stars and glowing hearts filled the lighting rig, and the whole space lifted into something that felt like a festival headliner.
The nine-piece setup moved in sync, with brass, banjo, percussion and harmonies layered together as if they were one instrument. Marcus Mumford, noticeably slimmer and in great voice, owned the stage with the confidence of someone who knows exactly what his audience wants. There were moments of real spectacle too: flames firing across the stage, Marcus jumping down to walk around the arena during Ditmas, and a curtain of sparkles closing the main set to The Wolf.
By the time they returned for Awake My Soul, I Will Wait and Conversation, the crowd were completely carried away. It felt warm, emotional and powerful all at once.
The Utilita Arena has hosted some incredible shows this year, but this was easily one of the standouts and a perfect way to close the year. With Cardiff being one of only two UK stops, the band said they wanted to end on a high, choosing Cardiff and then a home show in London as their final destinations. They made the right call.
A stunning night and one that will stay with me, and the packed Cardiff crowd, for a long time.
