The Swell Season

The Swell Season a critically acclaimed folk rock male/female duo obtained a fulsome reputation in part because of the memorable 2007 movie ‘Once’ that depicted the development of the group. The film helped the young group capture an Oscar early on for the song “Falling Slowly” off the debut self-titled album. ‘Once’ also has gone on to become a very successful Broadway play.

Fans of the theater show should expect an entirely different performance though, as the two piece group consisting of Glen Hansard on guitar/vocals and Marketa Irglova on the piano are often joined by a bassist and percussionist.

The chatty Hansard is quite emotional as he commands the stage with his acoustic guitar slung over his shoulder, he’ll often chat with the crowd between songs and share anecdotes to keep the mood friendly and welcoming. When Marketa takes center stage “Fantasy Man” concerts swing into a calmer demeanor as her reserved personality is a stark contrast to the boastful Hansard. Yet she still knows how to control the crowd and have them grasping onto every word delivered in her saccharine Czech accent.

Each time I’ve seen the Swell Season live in concert has been a building event. Things start fun and casual, but by the end of the show both Hansard and Irglova are sweating through their proper outfits and have loosened up a bit. The crowd and the band fully become one as setlists are closed with the beautiful “Falling Slowly”.