The Swell Season in Concert

Have you seen the movie "Once"? If not stop now and run (I mean run) to blockbuster and pick it up! It is amazing! The movie is the story of an Irish street musician and an immigrant from the Czech Republic.

The Swell Season consist of the two lead actors from the movie, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. I would describe it as indie rock mixed with a little folk. It is incredible. The concert was amazing. We knew it was going to be great when Glen strolled out on stage with worn out guitar and performed the opening song from the movie without an amp or microphone. It was phenomenal! Also, they talked a lot. I know some people hate this, but I love the insight you gain from hearing them share about their music. Hansard did most the talking, he explained his songs as well as showed his very funny, very Irish sense of humor. Below is a clip of them performing live, complete with Hansard's humor. For those of you who haven't see the movie he is basically re-telling the plot, this why everyone is laughing.



Nashville is EXACTLY what we expected. Live music everywhere. Broadway was a flood of country music. I think there was a street performer on every corner. As for the Ryman, the history of the auditorium is amazing. It was built by a wealthy business man as an evangelism center for a tent revival preacher. Slowly, because of mounting debit, it was turned into a musical hall. Some of the most famous names in country music have performed on the stage. Despite all the great history, I am going to have to agree Ryan Adams. In an interview Adams called the Ryman a "shit-hole." After sitting for four hours on the wooden benches, trying to see around the poles, and being completely distracted every time anyone in the 3,000 seat venue moved I agree with Adams. Interesting history, but a crappie place to watch a concert.

Oh and one more thing . . . Bill Callahan sucks. He was the opening act and I think that watching paint dry would have been more interesting. He stood completely still and sang long drawn out songs that all sounded alike. The only upside was his drummer. He was insanely animated and made the show almost tolerable.