#artist: markéta irglová

[haveyoulistenedtothisalbum-poll]

Tracklist:

Falling Slowly • If You Want Me • Broken Hearted Hoover Fixer Sucker Guy • When Your Mind's Made Up • Lies • Gold • The Hill • Fallen From The Sky • Leave • Trying To Pull Myself Away • All The Way Down • Once • Say It To Me Now

Spotify ♪ YouTube

[ginkgomoon]

Gavin's 'Falling Slowly' and Film 'Once'- Analysis

Since the beginning, I’ve wanted to do an analysis on the song Falling Slowly by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, but since it was only mentioned twice (in Mark Date and Gavin’s Music and the Past Call), I thought it was going to be left at that. But because of the mention again in @cheri-translates' post, perhaps... there could be more to it. Because this song was made for the film Once, I had actually watched it earlier this year. I wasn’t going to post this analysis originally, but the trailer literally made me cry. After watching it with the knowledge from my first viewing, the trailer had a bigger impact on me that I didn’t expect. This allowed me to push on. Rewatching the film for this helped me realise some parallels between the film and Gavin’s history with MC, along with its song Falling Slowly. For me, the film was so heartfelt, vulnerable, honest and real. Just like the side that Gavin shows MC. It also had super hilarious moments that made me laugh so much while crying over the sad bits. Highly recommend this movie (if you don’t mind some occasional cursing!) Now I can say I’ve watched Once twice.

Below contains spoilers for Gavin's CN content (referring to Cheri's translations) and on the film.

“Your performance… was a miracle to me.” -Gavin

Once is a 2007 Irish romantic drama about two struggling artists in Dublin, Ireland. The film was turned into a musical and won various awards, with Falling Slowly winning at the Critics’ Choice Awards and the 2008 Academy Award for Best Original Song. This was on top of receiving a Grammy nomination. Once only had a budget of only $150,000 USD.

In an Interview with Glen Hansard (male lead), he stated that during the scene of Falling Slowly in the music store, director John Carney wanted this shot to be the centrepiece- just two musicians connecting through music. This scene where the actors first got together to perform and sing in harmony allowed the crew to maintain the perseverance needed to finish the film despite various major setbacks. (People kept buying the same piano in the music store featured because of this film LOL)

“The closest a non-musician will ever get to feeling what it feels like to write the song… or to discover… it was the most moving scenes of the film.” -The Interviewer

The first impression some viewers may have upon watching would be criticising the shakiness of the handheld cameras. However, the actual intention (from the ex-film student perspective that I had) was to give it a sense of realism. This film aims to depict more of real-life from the perspective of the main characters. Even the characters' names weren't disclosed as they were literally 'unknown artists' in everyday life. It was ultimately based on Carney’s own personal experience, while Hansard, wrote the music for the film.

“The movie is sad, funny, real, everything that life is and it gives you hope. It's about a moment that happens in life that may not come by again or may not last forever, but it just might have the greatest impact on you. I know I'll be watching "Once" again.” -A fellow Once viewer.

We are introduced to the male lead (Guy), playing the guitar and wanting to make it big with his music, who also fixes vacuums with his father for a living. He meets the female lead (Girl) and she bugs him into fixing her vacuum. In the beginning, he’s cold and doesn’t want to associate with her (especially after when she gives him 10 cents for his busking).

Look how grateful he looks-

Even when Gavin and MC met again after their separation, Gavin puts up a fragile guard in front of MC while protecting her from a distance, like in high school. And just like how Joe Zieja stated in his MLQC interview-

“Gavin is a really interesting character, especially when we first started out before he and the producer really had a relationship… Gavin’s very cold. He’s very business-like, he just wants to get stuff done. But it’s really neat to see Gavin’s shell melt over time as he develops a relationship with the producer.”

In the film, Guy finds out that Girl can play the piano, who learned it from her father before he passed. Turns out, Guy is heartbroken from his ex (who’s currently in London) who cheated on him. Girl tries to convince him to get her back with his songs.

Similarly, Gavin discovers MC’s music during his fall shown Campus Date, in the moments where he received his Evol. Gavin devotes his life to protect her.

(I also did a timeline of MC and Gavin’s high school history together here that also references these parts.)

*Casually dragging vacuum*

Together, they go to a music store and she plays Mendelssohn for him. Then finally, at 15:42 of the film, they start to play Falling Slowly.

(So good! So good!! When they start harmonising!!! No fancy editing or cuts- it’s just two artists and pure music.)

Through music, they connect with each other’s souls. Just like how MC saves Gavin with her music that fateful day. And soon enough, Gavin comes across MC playing another song in the music room.

That song was Falling Slowly. He doesn’t know the name of the song though, only remembering the melody. Later, he learns how to play the guitar because he liked it and thought that perhaps he could perform it to his special someone one day. Such moments had inspired Gavin to write and make his own songs then record them onto his CDs so that maybe one day she could listen to them.

A thought I had was that did Gavin hear the piano and decide to make a guitar version, only to figure out that he was the missing piece?

Even the music store owner was very impressed-

Just like how Gavin slowly begins to soften up to MC, in the film, the instrumental of Falling Slowly plays when Guy and Girl start to bond. Guy tries to talk to her more but she states that she “has responsibilities”. It’s revealed that she has a daughter at home and a husband still in the Czech Republic. Even so, together, they write and record songs for his journey to London- back to his ex and to pursue his dreams as a musician.

Later, they go out for a spin on his father’s motorbike- he even prepared another helmet for her (SPARKY 2.0??). He asks her to teach him how to say “how much do you love him?” in Czech when they talk about her husband upon finding out that she’s married. She replies with, “it is you I love” in Czech. But he has no idea what she said. (*Grips heart*)

He wants her to go to London with him, start a band, and sell out shows. But she can’t. The song they recorded together “When your mind’s made up” (I have this song on repeat) plays in the car as they drive to the beach before he leaves for London the next morning.

So, if you want something And you call, call Then I'll come running To fight and I'll be at your door When there's nothing worth running for

The music producer is clearly so impressed-

Together, they schedule a time to meet up just before he leaves for the airport. Guy waited all night till morning for her.

But she still doesn’t come. And that was the last time he ever saw her. Just like how MC wasn't able to see Gavin who waited the whole day before he left. This was shown in Old Days Date that I did a heart-gripping analysis on here.

Guy’s father had said, “make your Ma proud.” (*Cries upon remembering Gavin’s loving mother*)

In the end, still unable to reach her, Guy gifts Girl a piano. In the beginning, they had a conversation where they spoke about pianos being too expensive, hence why she kept going to the music store in order to be able to play. Even though they are both short on money, he still manages to buy her a piano- the same one they played Falling Slowly together.

And while the film comes to an end, Falling Slowly plays in the background while Guy is off to the airport.

*Dramatic power-walking*

This was a heartbreaking ending for the viewers because not only that they didn’t end up together, they weren’t able to see each other before he left. And it wasn’t disclosed why she couldn’t make it.

Nothing too fancy happens because again, this was to show a slice of real life, and this proves it to be more tragic and beautiful. It can’t really be described unless it’s experienced. And I had the chance of viewing it not once, but twice.

This film (and song) is important for Gavin and MC because, despite their complicated history of misunderstandings, he always wants to put their relationship first and make the most out of what they have now together. Girl had helped Guy achieve his record deal and pursue his dreams. She had done her part on his journey to becoming an artist and both had to part ways. Without her, he wouldn’t have been able to record his songs and leave. Likewise, without MC, Gavin wouldn’t be the man he is today (hence, Winter World). Gavin is very vocal about this as well.

Gavin lowers his head, and the light follows his movement, descending onto the scrapbook, illuminating every word he writes- “I’m very happy to have met you in the past.” -CN Mark Date

“It doesn’t matter what happened in the past. What matters is every moment I spend with you now.” -Sugar Figurine Phone Call

“Seeing you again is the best present I could hope for.” -The Best Gift Phone Call

"Even though I'm curious about the future as well... I care more about the present. For me, it's good enough to seize the day. As long as you're here. The next second will be everything I need. Protecting what I have now, is the best plan for the future." -School Legend ASMR

With Falling Slowly, it’s quite a straightforward, romantic song. Originally in the film, Guy wrote it about his ex-girlfriend so it does has some sad lyrics. MC didn't know how Gavin knew about it.

Teacher Zheng: Just now, MC mentioned that you play the guitar and bass incredibly. Could you let me hear it? It’d be best if the two of you could play together. I haven’t heard my Orchestra Leader play the piano in a very long time.

To be honest, this is not a “request” at all. If Teacher Zheng wants to hear it, I’ll definitely be willing to play for her. But Gavin…

I cast Gavin a probing glance, wondering if there’s a need to persuade him. To my surprise, he nods.

Gavin: I could, but I’m really not as skilled as she says.

Teacher Zheng: Haha that’s all right. I just want you to use your heart when performing. What’s important isn’t how good it sounds, but the heart.

Gavin: Could I borrow the guitar over there?

Teacher Zheng: Of course.

Basically shown in Mark Date, Gavin’s been preparing for this moment all this time. He already knows what song to play. And what’s so amazing is that the first instrument we hear is the guitar which leads the piano. Therefore, once Gavin plays his piece, MC would know what song it is and then join in with her piano. AND THEY WOULD SING TOGETHER.

Maybe it’s just my misperception, or the sunlight just happened to fall onto his eyes, but I keep feeling as though his eyes are even brighter than usual. It’s as though they are flashing with light.

This is a slightly melancholic song, but the moving light and wind seem to make it refreshing and clear.

🎶 Lyrics 🎶

It's a slower song to help listeners slowly take in the emotions, lyrics and main dueting instruments of piano and guitar with the occasional violin in the back. It's so simple, and yet so powerful.

The guitar has its solos and the piano appears more prominent in the chorus. In the beginning, it's just the guitar, with the piano joining in after.

[GUY & GIRL] I don't know you but I want you All the more for that Words fall through me and always fool me And I can't react And games that never amount To more than they're meant Will play themselves out

Gavin never got the chance to be close to MC in high school, so he showed his affection through other methods. He walked 10 metres behind her after school and was her silent guardian against those who had negative intentions towards her. In the library, he had tried to introduce himself to her, but she had already dashed off.

Before waiting for him to say the introduction he had rehearsed countless times in his heart, the girl had already uttered a “thank you” and hurriedly fled. -CN Tilted Time Rumours and Secrets

Gavin couldn't help but develop this softer side for her and didn’t know how to control it or express it other than doing things such as leaving strawberry milk on the piano and learning guitar in hopes of playing it for her one day.

Those "games" he's referring to were those things they did, such as MC smiling at him when crossing each others' paths in the hallways, and Gavin buying her hot drinks and only looking at her among the snowball fight chaos at school in the Winter. Gavin has no power over how everything will turn out, nor does he try to have complete control over it either.

"... I believe that some things are destined. Like..." -Gacha and Destiny Phone Call

[GUY & GIRL] Take this sinking boat and point it home We've still got time

This "sinking boat" of the relationship is what they're both trying to save. For Gavin, this could be suggested to be about himself.

In a split second, the noise ceases abruptly. After a moment of silence, whispers surface in the crowd. Vaguely, I can catch a few phrases.

“Bad.” “Fighting.” “Misfit.” -CN Mark Date

Gavin had a tough time in high school being the outcast, but MC kept him going, fighting in the name of justice. And had quite literally saved his life. She was his lighthouse when he was battling the rough waters back home. And MC- she was also his home.

“As he clenched his fists, a power deep down within awakened. It was a rapture of rebirth. A declaration of the end of darkness and the advent of the light.” -Campus Date

[GUY & GIRL] Raise your hopeful voice, you have a choice You've made it now

Gavin wants her to realise his feelings, be around and talk to him more- and say "yes". But even so, he still gives her a choice not to, and would have to live with that. Gavin thought she already had when he departed and spent years thinking that her absence showed all of what had to be said.

[GUY & GIRL] Falling slowly, eyes that know me And I can't go back

Gavin's falling slowly for MC (compared to when he fell really fast before MC saved him LOL). Once he starts, he can and would never go back. He hopes that MC would see him the way he truly is.

MC: “I have one more thing to tell you. MC is a bit slow. She is not as good as you think, and will also be blinded by rumours…”

Gavin: “She’s a very nice person. What she thinks of me has nothing to do with anyone else." -Old Days Date

[GUY & GIRL] Moods that take me and erase me And I'm painted black

Gavin can't handle his feelings. (*Cries*)

After being in a daze in the piano room, he’d be in a daze in the library, continuously staring at the empty seat where MC used to sit, and I have no idea what he’s thinking about.

But I really didn't expect a person who sleeps in class to be in a daze in the library for an entire afternoon... Did Bro Gavin and MC have a fight recently? -CN Minor's Memos

[GUY] You have suffered enough And warred with yourself It's time that you won

He states that he understands that the girl had it rough, but if she was to be with him, she wouldn't get hurt. Gavin wants to be the one for her.

"MC, I want to make you happy forever. If... I hope that person is me." -First Year In-Game Birthday Visit

[GUY & GIRL] Take this sinking boat and point it home We've still got time Raise your hopeful voice, you have a choice You've made it now

[GUY & GIRL] Falling slowly, sing your melody I'll sing it loud

Gavin recognises MC's "melody", and urges her to sing (her presence) and Gavin will listen and follow, singing his one, too. Together they will harmonise.

[GUY] Take it all Oh, I played the cards too late Now it's gone

The song finally ends with both the guitar and piano, whereas at the beginning it was just the guitar.

This part is the most powerful and heartbreaking. Gavin regretted not giving the farewell letter to MC directly- from "playing the cards too late", then suffers the loss of her, her presence, and her melody.

But fortunately, in the end, Gavin successfully returned home- to MC.

"Want to play for a while tonight? I haven’t heard you playing the piano in a long time too.

If possible, I’d like to make a song request.

How about “Falling Slowly”?

We could sit by the window and play it together again." -CN Gavin’s Weekly Text - Piano Concert

Somewhere, Gavin is happily playing Falling Slowly with MC.

[wearebeatradio]

Alchemy

Hey guys, doing a track by track rundown of each of the songs on the new EP.  Really grateful for everyone’s support so far!

Everyone I Know, Just Holding On by beat radio

Track one is called ���Alchemy.”  I sort of half-joked when I first shared this song that I always swing for the fences when it comes to writing songs.  Ambition is a weird thing to talk about.  I still daydream about writing that one perfect, simple song that connects with people on a large scale.  A song that breaks through.  The white whale.  I have ideas about how this kind of song should feel.  The lyrics should be direct and straightforward - universal.  The chords should be simple.  The chorus should be uplifting, the melodies should stick in your head.  

There are a handful of songs I think about in these terms. “Falling Slowly” by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová is one that I think about often. Probably because I had followed Glen’s work for a while before it was written, and he sort of writes the same brand of songs that I try to write.  There are others, though - “Masterpiece” by Big Thief, or “The Story” by Brandi Carlile. Even going all the way back to when I was starting out performing, hearing a song like “Babylon” by David Gray.  I’ve been fascinated by all of these songs, I’ve studied them to try to figure out what makes them work. One observation I’ve made is that they are usually a sort of perfect distillation of what the artist does well.  Not necessarily their best or most interesting song, but the most direct and undeniable.  

Anyway, I’ve been trying to write that sort of song for a couple decades.  I’ve never been successful at it, but I take solace in the notion that reaching for the goal generally brings some sort of worthwhile result.  I’ve got lots of glorious, joyful failures.  As I was writing “Alchemy”, I felt like it had the potential to be this kind of world changing, break through song.  I mean, I was probably wrong.  I usually am.  I’m guessing I’d know by now if I’d hit it just right.  The universe would have given me some sort of indication.  But then again, you never know, maybe it just needs the right context?  I’ve thought about that a lot also.  Like, would “Falling Slowly” have captured the world’s imagination without the context of the film Once?

I’m not so naive as to pretend that there isn’t a lot more that goes into it.  The truth is I’m not all in like the artists I mentioned were.  I’ve never really been committed enough to the career part of music, if I’m really honest.  I didn’t want to sacrifice things that those artists did.   I stayed home, had a family.  So, there’s that.  There’s the work.  There’s also a bit of luck, and serendipity.  Most people will tell you that.  I think there’s also spiritual work you have to do.  You have to be ready for the universe to move with you.  You’ve got to be ready.  I think there’s a fearlessness that you need.  Whether or not I was ever meant for any of that, I still feel compelled to make songs.  So, I keep the dream alive, and it gives me a sense of purpose.  

“Alchemy” came out of a hard time I was going through.  I write songs for lots of different reasons.  Most often I’m trying to fight off a lingering sadness, a kind of low-grade depression.  This song came out of an especially low period where I had sort of collapsed into myself.  I wasn’t there for my wife Liz.  I was there physically, but emotionally I was gone, and she was left to deal with some intense real life shit all alone.  Songs don’t make these sort of things better.  Therapy works.  Leaning into vulnerability and taking inventory.  Honest and open communication is hard work that you’ve got to do every day.  I’m 41 years old, I feel like a beginner all the time.  But I’m all in with Liz.  When you’ve got a partner like her, you give it all you’ve got.

But, I also wrote the song.  Maybe it was just something I had to do for myself.  I obsessed over the lyrics and arrangement for a year.  I recorded 5 or 6 different versions of it.  The white whale.  That holy grail.  I wanted the song to be my salvation.  I remember writing down the line “I know I haven’t been here, and its been a hard year, but I’ve got faith in the future.”  I wanted to sing it so I could believe it, and make it real.  I wanted to transcend the space between us.  

I believe in what the song says, that love will save you.  That two people can come together and it can be magic.  It can transcend the darkness.   So now that the song is done I hope it captures the world’s imagination.  But if it doesn’t that cool too.  I’ll always have it, to sing and play.  I’ll hold it close, a sort of talisman of a hard time that we survived, and came out stronger.

XO,

B

[popofventi]

July Song 20: "Mother" by Marketa Irglova and The Webb Sisters

July 2021 | Song #20

Artist:  Markéta Irglová and The Webb Sisters feat. Marja Gaynor, Patrick Dexter, Manuel Barreto and Mio

Song: “Mother“

Most people know Markéta Irglová from the Once’ movie soundtrack and her duet with Glen Hansard on the fabulous song “Falling Slowly”. That’s when I first heard of her as well. However, many don’t realize she’s been releasing great, moving music in the ever since. “The Hill”, “This Right Here” and “Among The Living” are among my favorite songs of all-time.

And now, she returns with another classic track “Mother”. It’s as if she collected the greatest musicians she knows to record this amazing tribute to the greatest influence in her life. And that’s what it sounds like. Featuring The Webb Sisters, Marja Gaynor, Patrick Dexter, Manuel Barreto and Mio. It’s the perfect track to close our July playlist.

Get the music:  ► PURCHASE “MOTHER” VIA BANDCAMP

"When singing the song I was struck by the realization, that it is as easy to imagine singing it to my daughter as it is to sing it to my mother. For I know that before not too long, my baby will want to spread her wings and fly beyond my reach, my protection. She, who is my world, my everything. And so the circle is complete. I only hope to help create a better world for her to live in."  -- Marketa Irglova

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[this-is-for-the-record-blog]

Glen Hansard - Between Two Shores - Album Review

The folky and soulful singer songwriter from Ireland has returned with a new record or shall I say a new old record. This record consists of songs Glen Hansard wrote years ago that were just put to the side and its simple to see why that may have been. The songs reflect Glen Hansards emotional heartbreak from a relationship that meant very deeply to him coming to an end. I cant help but speculate these emotional songs are based around his break up with ex girlfriend and co songwriter from The Swell Season Markéta Irglová who ironically is featured on the album in the track “Your Hearts Not In It”. Hansard express just about every emotion one may go through when experiencing a break up from questioning the change in heart like on The Rolling Stones inspired “Why Woman”, anger on the “Wheels on Fire” as well as his loneliness and facing the truth of letting go of someone he loved so deeply for so long on many of the songs here, but the album isnt all dismal and sadness he also expresses his determination to push forward, overcome and recover from this broken heart in the songs “Setting Forth” and one of my favorites “Movin’ On” which has a cool bluesy acoustic lick that reminds me of something from Dallas Green. This track offers a stripped back busking Hansard and builds with an organ in the back that goes from humming to wailing. Other times he is offering a bit of advice to his ex about her broken heart, filling her with positivity and confidence in the very passionate “Time Will Be The Healer”. Glen Hansards vocals are on point here probably best ive heard from him. Very reminiscent of Ben Harper. This one is probably my favorite on the album.

Between Two Shores has that organic acoustic classic Hansard sound, but much of the record has a full band and even orchestration with organ, violins, electric guitar and even horns behind him like on the Americana breakdown opener “Roll On Slow” where he pulls some musical inspiration from early Bruce Springsteen. This isnt the only moment on this record that seems to pull from that influence as this influence is heard again on the track “Your Hearts Not In It” and knowing Glen Hansard this comes with no surprise. One of my favorite tracks on the record though is the romantically depressing “Wreckless Heart” which is about taking off and just letting it all go. This track has a beautiful saxophone solo. This record was short which was nice as this topic can only be tolerable for so long whether you have a shared broken heart or have no similar experience at all. I think overall this record was a romantic tragedy conceptually and a short emotional and cathartic journey both for the artist and listener. Its an easy listen with a wide range of types of songs from classic Glen Hansard sounds with his powerful soulful vocals to mostly being backed by a full band of bluesy, folky, soulful and orchestrated instrumentation that harkens back to Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, Tom Petty and The Rolling Stones. I loved the uses of organ and brass instruments as it added a lot of soul to the album. If you like artists like The Swell Season, The Frames, Eddie Vedder, Bruce Springsteen, Bob Dylan, The Rolling Stones, City and Colour, Interference, Ben Harper, Damien Rice, Gregory Alan Isakov, and William Fitzsimmons you will love this record. My favorite songs are “Why Woman”, “Wreckless Heart”, “Movin’ On” and “Time Will Be The Healer”.

[nyangibun]

20 Questions

I was tagged by the delightful @scullylikesscience <3 <3 thank you! 

Name: Prea Nickname[s]: None.  Zodiac sign: Aquarius Hogwarts house: Gryffindor Height: 5′2″ Ethnicity: Thai Orientation: Hella bi, hella fly Favorite Fruit: Mangoes  Favorite Season: Winter  Favorite Book: Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë Favorite Song: ‘Falling Slowly’ by Glen Hansard & Markéta Irglová Favorite Flower: Orchids Favorite Scent: The smell of rain Favorite Colors: Pink Favorite animals: Cheetahs and Sharks. But basically, all animals tbf. Favorite Beverage: Toffee apple cider Coffee, tea, or hot cocoa? Tea Favorite Movie: The Lord of the Rings trilogy and Wonder Woman. And just way too many tbh. I can’t choose.  Favorite band/artist: The 1975  Favorite Characters: Zuko, Katara, Sansa Stark, Toph, Jane Eyre, Elizabeth Bennett, Bellamy Blake, Leia Organa, Ophelia, Jon Snow, Diana Prince, Barbara Gordon, Matthew Murdock, Wade Wilson, Harley Quinn (comic version), Finn, Rey, Wanda Maximoff... this list could get long so I’ll stop here.  Blanket Number: 1 Average sleep hours: 6 Dream Trip: Brazil Last thing I googled: heart tree Blog created at: where do I find this out? lmao How many blogs I follow: 525  Follower number: 1069 What do I usually post: My fanfics, Game of Thrones, Jonsa, Zutara, Bellarke, Marvel, DC, Feminism, Politics, Mental Health, Animals and just whatever makes me laugh. Of course the occasional rant about my life lol Do I get asks regularly: Yes :”) and thank you to everyone who sends them in!!! <3 I love having discussions with you guys and all the prompts are wonderful (even if it takes me 1000 years to complete)

I tag: @riahchan @qinaliel @everythingjonsa @janeyfoster @occupyvenus @lathwell55 @buttercup--bee @soapieturner @fedonciadale @thenutofroyalty (I know I’m supposed to tag more but I am so very lazy and so if you even read this up to here, I tag you!!)

[kijkenluister]

♫ My Top 5 Last.fm artists: Markéta Irglová (59), Rolfe Kent (53), Roger Eno (49), Machinefabriek (30) & Glen Hansard (26) #music Powered by Tweekly.fm

[mattbrothersscriptwriter]

Once Upon A Time

I’d like to have a little ramble and shout into the void about a truly unique, life affirming and heartfelt movie. Not because any of this hasn’t been covered before - I’d bet my guitar case full of coins it has. Not as a review or a hot take or a think piece, though perhaps it’s a little of all of those things. But because I recently rewatched the 2007 musical drama Once (dir: John Carney) and it reminded me how much this movie makes me fucking feel… which is also the hardest thing for me to eloquently put down into words but hey, I’ll try.

Once tells the simple story of Guy (Glen Hansard), a busker in Dublin who lives with his Dad and works in his hoover repair shop. He’s a talented musician but is still living in the shadow of a long since broken relationship, something that evidently both haunts and drives him. This inner conflict has inevitably kept him stranded in the same place – possessing the skills and the ambition to transform his passion into a career but lacking the courage and the heart to truly see it through. That is until he meets Girl (Markéta Irglová), a Czech immigrant who gets by selling flowers and the Big Issue. She’s a keen pianist and the unlikely pair quickly form a unique friendship, bonding over songwriting, heartbreak and Dublin itself.

Shot for next to nothing in three weeks, it’s a film so raw (and perfectly suited to that style) that just a single step in either direction would shatter the illusion. Too glossy and the magic is somehow lost. Any more ramshackle and there probably wouldn’t be a finished film to even worry about. Cillian Murphy was supposed to play Guy but dropped out, making way for director John Carney to convince Hansard, who was already set to write the music, to take the natural next step and just play the role himself.

It’s a story that manages to exist in the moment like nothing else I’ve really seen, thanks in part to the guerrilla style production but also thanks to its immense, bittersweet heart and commitment to bottling the ‘life as it happens’ feeling. It’s how we all experience life after all and it’s only afterwards that we may look back on certain memories as feeling like scenes from a movie: those perfectly captured instances where decisions have huge consequences and it feels like some higher power is writing you into a cruel plot twist or inevitable turning point. Its one thing to physically make a movie feel so grounded but to write and perform it that way too shows a real understanding of the tone they were aiming for – and absolutely nailing in the process.

It’s a joyful movie but an effortlessly melancholy one too. Like I said, it’s bittersweet. Anyone who has ever had a dream, ever been in love or ever wished for something more, you can understand and feel all of that through one look at Hansard’s exhausted face. Avoiding saccharine movie tropes and clichés, he’s simply a bloke who rides the bus with his guitar. Who chases thieves stealing his busking money. Who exists in our world. We probably see him every day, out on the streets or hunkered away in a corner of the tube. His or her music echoing through crowds, ignored by most but probably connecting to more people than we might think.

Guy never seems more vulnerable than when he’s hiding behind a forced smile or his sad, puppy dog eyes and watching this mask of happiness slowly blossom into something genuine is where the film really hits me. It reminds us that we have to seek change – or allow change to happen to us – to move from where we are to where we want to be.

I love how Guy is a thirty something pessimist whilst Girl, despite living with just as much of an uncertain, unstable future as Guy, is a ray of sunshine in comparison. She’s a stubbornly joyful extrovert, happily striking up conversations with strangers - a comically recurring trait that rewards her with casual piano practice in the music shop, helps to secure a bank loan for the recording session AND score a reduced charge for the studio hire later on. It’s the ‘if you don’t ask, you won’t get’ mentality, utilised by someone with no ulterior motives; a real pure soul who finds happiness in what she has, not what she’s lacking.

She speaks her mind, unconcerned with any risk of social awkwardness. Her abrupt “I have to go now” way of announcing she’s leaving becomes something of a catchphrase and it works wonderfully in establishing not just the generational difference between the two characters but the cultural one as well. I really love how we first meet her in the film – when she is drawn to Guy performing his most emotionally raw song (the amazing ‘Say it to Me Now’) all alone, in the middle of the night. This exorcism of his repressed feelings, expressed only through his music, is in fierce contrast to Girl’s happy go lucky outlook and she wastes no time in probing him for the truth.

This film is one of the most genius, underplayed and natural musicals ever – essentially doing the ‘bursting into song’ thing whilst remaining firmly in reality, never quite breaking that thinly veiled fourth wall that all other musicals do. Here, it’s in a beautifully captured song-writing-on-the-fly sequence (‘Falling Slowly’) or a late night jam session between family and acquaintances (‘Gold’) or in a great sequence where Girl sings lyrics to an instrumental track given to her by Guy whilst on a walk back from the corner store to buy batteries (’If You Want Me’). It’s so relatable; from the street kids watching her go past to her fluffy slippers to the clunky portable CD player in her hand. Who hasn’t done something like that? A more traditional musical might have been tempted to convert the pedestrians to background singers, cooing harmonies over her shoulder or snapping their fingers in a dance routine through the street but this film shows that life can be full of ‘movie-adjacent’ moments and not feel cheaply earnt whilst portraying them.

This movie is something of an Irish, folksy Before Sunrise – except Guy is probably in the period of his life where he’s actually living in Before Sunset (jaded, wondering what could have been) whilst Girl is firmly in Sunrise (open to new connections, optimistic about the present). They’re on different paths and perhaps even swap roles throughout, with Guy becoming more enlightened and eager for new experiences whilst we learn that Girl is caring for a small child who is product of her past. These two never really come to any real conflict themselves. The closest they maybe get is when Guy makes an awkward, kinda sad pass at her one night – but it’s practically all forgiven and forgotten by the next day. That’s real life too and I’m glad a moment like that is addressed in the story but promptly resolved. It doesn’t need to be this instance of overly contrived setup/payoff, it’s just a misunderstanding that the characters are aware enough to acknowledge and put aside. In fact, so much of this narrative goes against the grain. Guy never gets ‘the Girl’. He chooses to chase down a woman who is probably bad for him. And Girl ends up giving her husband another shot – a character we’ve never met and have barely heard about. Again, just because we aren’t aware of a person’s backstory doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist or that we’re responsible for making any grand change to the way things pan out. Here, a kind gesture of purchasing a piano for a kindred spirit is more than enough… if a little unpractical.

So much of this movie acts as a mirror to the lives of the people making it. The struggling artist narrative is straight out of Hansard’s life, even recording the demo tape in the same studio as he once did. The ex-girlfriend who moved to London is right out of Carney’s own past. All of this helps blur the line between fact and fiction, The scene where Girl tells Guy that she loves him, unprompted and ingeniously unsubtitled, is perhaps the most quietly powerful moment in the film – because the line between performance and truth is shattered as we, like Guy AND Hansard, perhaps can’t tell who’s saying what anymore – the character or the actor. In reality, it may have been both. And it’s captured right there on screen. Lightning in a bottle.

Arguably, this film is set in the last era of when a story like this could be romantic – or at least romanticised. If it was made today, in 2018, Guy would be recording in his bedroom, uploading to Soundcloud, plugging his Patreon page and filling a Youtube account with cover songs sang directly to his webcam. There’s no doubt that the advancements in technology has added an artifice to the whole struggling artist thing and it means something very different in this day and age. Here, in the far flung days of the mid 00s, there’s no real social media presence (Myspace was sort of at its peak but was more of a Facebook precursor than the platform for music it slowly morphed into) and Guy ends the movie with a handful of CDs to show for his time in the studio. Ah physical media, how I miss thee… sometimes…

This is definitely one of those movies that is firmly lodged in my brain. Despite only having watched it twice, three times at most, I’ve had the soundtrack on rotation for ten years and the time I caught Glen Hansard himself in concert (at the Shepherd’s Bush Empire in 2015, natch) was legitimately one of the most memorable gig experiences I’ve ever been to. Everything from the setlist to the showmanship to the intimacy to the grandeur, it was just incredible. An unplugged encore starting with Say It To Me Now up on a balcony in the crowd through to Falling Slowly on piano? Woop woop! 

But I digress… this is a film that is firmly time-stamped in my memory. I watched it on the very same night that I first properly met someone who ended up becoming a huge part of my life. Nearly ten years ago to the day, me and some friends - energised by both the movie and the hazy summer evening - trekked across town to a housewarming party. This was a decision which would inevitably change the very direction of my life, which is insane when you really sit down and think about it… and being able to pinpoint the origin of such a huge personal crossroads is kinda what Once is all about so it really does resonate.

And I think this rewatch really did resonate, because I now saw myself more as the cynical, pessimistic person Guy is at the start of the film – just trying to keep on keeping on and push himself out of his comfort zone. To achieve something special or worthwhile. Without getting too personal, I can be my own worst enemy and while 2008 mostly feels more like a lifetime ago, there are times when it feels like it was just yesterday and I blinked and went from then to now in a flash. And we all have these moments. Be it meeting someone influential, deciding to move house, to travel to a new country, to quit that job and take that risk; they can be scary or freeing or even traumatic but they’re an element of life that movies strive to replicate… and this one just does so by downplaying the weight of these moments rather than draw attention to them in an artificial manner.

John Carney has said that the title of the film is in reference to other talented musicians and artists that he knew, who always said ‘once I do this and once I do that, then I’ll pursue my passion’ etc, referring to the realities (and the safety nets) of life that can sometimes stop people from taking the plunge and chasing their dreams. I’ve definitely felt the same way and have constantly had that conversation inside my own head: that once I get these things sorted then these things lined up then I’ll do such and such and how in the end, time just keeps on moving regardless… so you have to act. 

This film is about making that choice to act.

[tunesfromwombtochildhood]

The Swell Season is a folk rock duo formed by Irish musician Glen Hansard and Czech singer and pianist Markéta Irglová. They because famous with the movie Once, winner of the Academy Award for best song in 2007.

In 2010 the company Levis created a project Levi's Pioneer Sessions: 2010 Revival Recordings with several musicians recording covers for their favorite artist. The Swell Season recorded the song “Young Hearts Run Free“ famously preformed in 1976 by Candy Staton. This new version by The Swell Season is an acoustic version with an upbeat mood, stepping aside from the original version, a disco song.

Young Hearts Run Free is a song about love deception, but mostly a call to be free, because certain feelings don’t need to be attached to a commitment.

[whitejeweler]

Welcome to Music Monday when we bring you great songs with jewelry, gemstones or precious metals in the title or lyrics. Today, Oscar-winning Irish singer-songwriter-actor-musician Glen Hansard wonders if a simple wedding band has the power to save his marriage in the 2015 folk song "Wedding Ring."

Written by Hansard, "Wedding Ring" is about a man who loves his wife but has doubts about her fidelity. He describes her as a "wildcat on the prowl" and fears he may be losing her.

In the catchy refrain, Hansard asks, "Wedding ring, wedding ring / Little band of gold / Will you be strong enough to keep her / Keep her love from going cold?"

"Wedding Ring" appears as the second track of his second studio album Didn't He Ramble. The 2015 LP scored a nomination for Best Folk Album at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. It also performed well on the charts, rising to #5 on the U.S. Billboard Folk Albums chart and #16 on the U.S. Billboard Top Alternative Albums chart.

Born in Dublin in 1970, Hansard dropped out of school as a 13-year-old and eked out a living as a street performer. At the age of 20, he formed a band called The Frames and later became one half of the folk rock duo The Swell Season.

He showed off is acting chops in The Commitments (1991) and starred in the musical Once (2007). In that role, he performed the lead ballad "Falling Slowly" with co-star Markéta Irglová. The tune netted him an Academy Award for Best Original Song.

According to Allmusic.com, Hansard is an artist who is not afraid to lay bare his soul for his audience to see. Hansard claims his music inspiration comes from three world-class artists.

Says Hansard, "In my house, when I was a kid, there was the holy trinity, which was Leonard Cohen, Van Morrison and Bob Dylan — with Bob sitting center."

Please check out the video of Hansard's live performance of "Wedding Ring." The lyrics are below if you'd like to sing along...

"Wedding Ring" Written and performed by Glen Hansard.

Where you running to now, baby Running all the time Where you running to now, darlin' Running to all the time Well, I sure hope it's to your sister And not that mean brother of mine

I've been trying to reach you, darlin' I try, I try in vain I've been trying to reach you, darlin' Though I try, I try in vain I always end up losing you And walking home in the rain

Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Will you be strong enough to keep her Keep her love from going cold?

There's a wildcat in you, woman A wildcat on the prowl There's a wildcat in you, woman A wildcat on the prowl Every time I put my arms around you I can hear that wildcat growl

I remember when I met you There was something about the moon I remember the night I met you There was something about the moon I don't know if it was waxing or waning But I knew that you'd be leaving soon

Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Will you be strong enough to keep her To keep her love from getting old?

Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Wedding ring, wedding ring Little band of gold Will you be strong enough to keep her To keep her love from going cold?

Will you be strong enough to keep her To keep her love from getting old Will you be strong enough to keep her To keep her love from going cold?

Credit: Image capture via YouTube.com.

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