The Swell Season - The Swell Season

Frames front man Hansard has teamed up with classically trained Czech vocalist and pianist, Irglova to produce this album of affecting songs and compositions. From straight songs to piano instrumentals, "The Swell Season" affords an insight into a whole other side of Glen/The Frames, as well as offering a perfect introduction to this very talented newcomer. The record takes its name from author Josef Skvorecky's book of the same name. Set in Nazi occupied Czechoslovakia, the story centers on one man's love of music and his pursuit of unattainable women as a country comes unglued. Like the book, the record deals with the pains and hopes of those struggling to make sense of their lives. Album Description

Beautiful and Richly Textured

I checked out The Swell Season at Bonnaroo this year and they blew me away with their rich and finely textured songs. This first album captures the same spirit, in a sonically richer environment. Highly recommended to any fan of fabulous songwriting and beautiful harmony and melody. July 17, 2008

excellent

I loved the entire cd. To appreciate the impact of both singers, you might want to view the movie "ONCE". The movie gives a much deeper impact to the songs and artists. June 24, 2008

Great listening

Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are a dynamic duo. This is hauntingly beautiful and energizing music. Definitely see the movie "Once" as well. This CD shares three songs with the soundtrack to the movie and the other pieces are in the same vein. It's genuine, gutsy music with awesome harmonies and real lyrics. It makes you glad to have ears. May 27, 2008

Easy to listen to

Released before the movie Once popularized the music of the eclectic duo of Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. Some are earlier versions of numbers heard in Once such as 'Lies' and 'Falling Slowly', but most are original to this album. The title cut is an instrumental (piano) piece. Both albums share a quiet combination of mostly lead guitar and male vocal with vocal and piano highlights from Irglova, although they trade roles from time to time. The music is soulful, relational, reflective at times, angry at times and revolves around real people and situations. Worth a listen. May 25, 2008

It's just swell . . .

Love the music, love the voices. My only disappointment was that I didn't realize it was mostly the same as the soundtrack from Once, which I already had. But now there is one for my car and one for my home, so it's all good. May 21, 2008

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