The Swell Season set to release first album in 16 years
The musical duo known as The Swell Season, comprised of Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, has had a tumultuous and eventful journey together. Initially coming together as musical partners, they released their debut album under The Swell Season moniker in 2006. Their collaboration extended beyond music as they starred in the Irish film Once, portraying two musicians who find love during the filming process. This on-screen romance spilled into reality, leading to Hansard and Irglová falling in love off-camera and even winning an Oscar for best original song with “Falling Slowly.”
In just a span of two short years, the duo experienced a whirlwind of events that deeply impacted their personal and professional lives. Despite the intensity of their romantic relationship, it eventually came to an end not long after The Swell Season released their 2009 album, Strict Joy. While many may have assumed this marked the conclusion of their partnership, the undeniable bond between Hansard and Irglová as songwriters persisted.
Now, after 16 years since their last album release, The Swell Season is making a comeback with a new album titled Forward, set to hit the shelves on June 13. In a recent interview, the pair reflected on their artistic journey, the experiences they have shared, and the evolution of their musical collaboration. This forthcoming album not only marks a significant milestone for The Swell Season but also serves as a testament to the enduring creative connection between Hansard and Irglová.
During their latest appearance on World Cafe, Hansard and Irglová delved into their evolution as artists, shedding light on the challenges and triumphs they have faced along the way. In addition to discussing their journey, they treated listeners to a mix of new and classic tracks that showcase their musical prowess and emotional depth.
The session was expertly produced and edited by Kimberly Junod, with web story development handled by Miguel Perez. The technical aspect was overseen by engineer Chris Williams, while programming coordination and booking were managed by Chelsea Johnson, and line production by Will Loftus. This episode offers an intimate look into the creative process of The Swell Season, providing a glimpse into the minds of two remarkable musicians as they navigate the complexities of artistry and collaboration.
As The Swell Season prepares to release Forward, fans and music enthusiasts alike can anticipate a collection of songs that encapsulate the duo’s growth, resilience, and unwavering passion for storytelling through music. The return of The Swell Season serves as a reminder of the enduring power of artistic expression and the timeless quality of genuine, heartfelt songwriting.