The Swell Season
Let me say this first: Glen Hansard is a musical genius. His voice is incredible…I would argue that there is no voice like it in music today, particularly live. Jenny and I saw The Swell Season on Sunday night. The band featured Glen Hansard on acoustic guitar (the same old, beat-up Takamine from the movie “Once.” Marketa Irglova, his co-star from “Once,” his girlfriend, and his collaborator on the album “The Swell Season” was one piano for most of the show, although she did play Glen’s guitar for a few songs. These two were backed up by the incredible violinist from Glen’s band The Frames (which everyone should listen to…amazing band) as well as the Frames’ bassist and celloist. Martha Wainwright opened. I wasn’t impressed. But then Glen and company came on, and proceeded to play for 2 hours, playing everything from Falling Slowly to Fitzcarraldo, to a song called “Heartstrings” or some such that they had never performed live before.The stage presence, the charisma, and the beautiful music…everyone should try to see The Swell Season (or The Frames) live, whenever they can. There is no show like it. If you can’t see them live, just buy the albums or see the movie “Once.” Can’t compare with the live show, but these folks are true artists and music-makers.
Sounds awesome man. Glad y’all were able to check them out. I’ve never heard Martha before, though I’ve certainly heard the other Wainrights. There’s nothing quite like talented musicians/artists performing live.