Don't know a lot about Mumford and Son, but happened across the name about a month before christmas. They were listed in a short telly spot on Channel 4 (UK) which usually seems to feature non-chart rock and pop bands. I was surprised to see one listed as Folk.
Didn't watch the programme, but during the next week heard their record played on the radio.
A quick web search found that they were young, from somewhere around London, write their own songs and describe themselves as Folk.
I also found video footage of them playing live on a balcony for some Irish telly programme. Instruments were mandoline, banjo, piano accordian and something else accoustic.
I am not sure whether they are quite my bag, but would if they call themselves folk and use what are generally recognised as folk instruments why should we say they are NOT?
What chance does folk music have when Folkies seem determined to disown (and in many instances actively savage) anything that gets popular play?
Quack!
Geoff the Duck.