Album Review: The Swell Season – Strict Joy

I was not sure what to expect from this album. As a die hard fan of The Frames, I would blindly follow Glen Hansard anywhere. I adored Once. However, I had no idea on which side of the map this album would end up on. With Strict Joy, Hansard and Irglová have taken The Swell Season to a new level. It can’t be denied that these two have done something magical again. In addition to the duo, this record also features Colm Mac Iomaire (violin), Joe Doyle (bass), Rob Bochnik (guitar), Graham Hopkins (drums), and Javier Mas (guitar).

The album begins more along the lines of The Swell Season’s previous work- lovely and mellow and dreamy- but this release really comes to life for me on the fourth track. The Rain is a fantastic song. It covers a lot of ground from start to finish, beginning with just Hansard and an acoustic guitar and progressing to full accompaniment with Irglová’s subtle harmonies giving the piece depth. Mac Iomaire’s violin is an exceptional addition. Paper Cup has slowly but surely worked it’s way into being one of my favorites. It’s simple beauty, delicate guitar work, and stunning lyrics make it signifcant to the album. The urgent vocals and almost eerie music gives High Horses an intense effect. Irglová’s vocals soar over Hansard’s for the perfect duet.

Throughout Strict Joy, Hansard and Irglová blend their voices flawlessly. Each instrumental part is done with talent and precision. The album is extremely satisfying to listen to. I imagine that both fans of The Swell Season and The Frames will enjoy this album immensely.

Feeling the Pull

Visit The Swell Season at TheSwellSeason.com. Pre-order Strict Joy here.