Concert Review: Glen Hansard and Margaret Glaspy Perform at 9:30 Club on 4/12/26
Glen Hansard, hailing from Dublin, Ireland, has had a diverse and extensive career in the music industry. From leading the Irish indie rock band, The Frames, to winning an Oscar for the soundtrack of the film Once as part of The Swell Season, and releasing a series of acclaimed solo albums across different genres, Hansard’s musical journey has been nothing short of remarkable.
His recent performance at the 9:30 Club showcased the breadth of his career, with a band that brought a dynamic and intense energy to the stage, drawing from various phases of his musical evolution. Opening with “Don’t Settle” from his album This Wild Willing, Hansard seamlessly transitioned into a Frames classic, “Fitzcarraldo,” inspired by the eponymous film by Werner Herzog.
Throughout the set, Hansard delved into his repertoire, including solo tracks like “One of Us Must Lose,” “Grace Beneath the Pines,” and “My Little Ruin,” as well as hits from The Swell Season, such as “Falling Slowly” and “When Your Mind’s Made Up.” He even surprised the audience with a cover of Interference’s “Say Ito Me Now / Gold” and Pete Seeger’s “Passing Through” to close out the main set on a high note.
The encore saw Hansard paying homage to his Irish roots with a rendition of Them’s classic, “Gloria,” further showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped his music over the years. Additionally, he debuted a new song during the performance, adding a fresh element to the evening.
Opening for Hansard was Margaret Glaspy, who kicked off the night with a captivating set that included renditions of songs by artists like the Magnetic Fields and Lucinda Williams. Glaspy’s unique take on familiar tunes, coupled with her soulful vocals, set the tone for the evening, as she also hinted at an upcoming album release and treated the audience to a heartfelt dedication to Martin Luther King, Jr.
Having witnessed several of Glaspy’s performances in the past, the reviewer was impressed by her consistency and artistry on stage. Similarly, for someone experiencing Hansard’s live show for the first time, the energy and power of his performance, along with the exceptional musicianship of his band, left a lasting impression.
In conclusion, Glen Hansard’s concert at the 9:30 Club was a testament to his musical legacy and continued relevance in the industry, with Margaret Glaspy’s opening set adding an extra layer of depth to the overall experience. The night was a celebration of artistry and talent, making it a memorable event for all in attendance.