It’s felt like forever waiting to hear new music from the Oscar-winning duo Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. Now the pair are back with a new song, continuing their musical partnership even though they ended their romantic relationship earlier this year. Their new album, Strict Joy, is slated for late October. IFC.com has the track, “Low Rising,” available for a first listen. The tune, which has a more jazzy, up-tempo sound than Once fans might expect, is a welcome return. Our only gripe? More Marketa, please! The singer almost fades into the background here.
Take a listen and tell us what you think. Are you enjoying The Swell Season’s new sound. How does it compare to “Falling Slowly” (which you can watch them perform on Letterman below)?
More from EW’s Music Mix:
Charlie Watts not quitting Rolling Stones
New Basement Jaxx ft. Sam Sparro video, ‘Feelings Gone’: Watch it here
Beatles reissues sold out at Amazon: Are fans screwed?
Jay-Z, Beyonce attend Grizzly Bear concert
Sigh. I love them.
Cannot wait. Love them.
Kudos for Kris Allen for choosing and performing “Falling Slowly” on Idol this past season. He put Hansard and Irglova back on everyone’s radar. Well done!
EXCEPT, now my mom thinks his version was better than theirs. She’s very, very wrong.
Yeah, Kris Allen’s version, though good, is definitely not better. It’s still a great song when he sings it, but with Glen and Marketa, it’s epic.
i heart!
Ohhhh, some of the only music me & my mom BOTH love!!! I bought her the Once soundtrack on her b-day and it was all we listened to in the car for 2 months!!
There is SO MUCH sludge on the radio today. It is SO refreshing to hear authenticity for a change, and these two have it – and talent- in droves. Both on record and live in concert, Hansard and Irglova are the real deal. I look forward to the new disc, and pray that these two get back together as a couple. Their music is heaven sent. Also: check out NPR’s website to watch them perform a mini-concert including a tearjerker called “Fantasy Man”. Did Irglova write it about Hansard? Hmmmm…
P.S. For those interested, U.S. concert dates will be announced Tuesday September 8th. They are BRILLIANT live.
It does seem to be a continuation of the themes from Once. I agree, more Marketa! She’s very distinctive and this could have used a little more of her refreshing talent.
Once is one of my favorite movies of the last decade and far and away my favorite soundtrack. I hear any one of their songs and it still gives me goosegumps. So much raw talent so I’m very excited to get their new album. They just seem so likable too! Sad to hear they broke-up but doesn’t make them any less talented so I hope they keep it coming.