The Best Of The UK Music Scene: Glen Hansard

Friday, 8 March 2013

Glen Hansard, Too Good to Exclude

In 2006 the movie Once was released. This Irish drama was directed and written by John Carney and starred singers Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. Not only did Hansard and Irglova star in the film, they also wrote and sang all of the original songs. At the Academy Awards that year, Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova won the award for Best Original Song for "Falling Slowly".

Both singers are not of Irish descent. Marketa Irglova was born and Raised in the Czech Republic. However, Glen Hansard was born in Dublin, Ireland. Although that does mean that he was born in the Republic of Ireland (which is not part of the UK) I have to stretch the rules a bit for this incomparable singer.

I will admit that I am very late to the party with this singer. I first heard him on a television show (I know, it's disappointing for me too) but right away fell in love. When I started listening to his older songs and learning his back story I was more than impressed.

It's easy to say it's his voice that makes me love him or his lyrics but, my love for Glen Hansard goes much deeper than all that. The power and raw emotions that he puts into his songs makes me feel it deep inside. Glen Hansard leaves everything he has in himself in his songs. He doesn't hide any of himself away. And, because of that, anyone who listens to his songs can't help but be moved by them.

So, why should you listen to Glen Hansard? Because there are very few musicians out there that can sing with the same passion, power, focus and openness as he does. There's a reason why the Oscars gave an unknown Irish singer (unknown to the North American charts) an award. He is everything a musician should be and so much more.

*Bird of Sorrow from the album Rhythm and Repose

Who am I?

I am a lover of music. I am slightly obsessed with the UK. Nothing makes me feel better than listen to my favourite songs (well, maybe my dog does). I'm Kayla, and I'd love to tell you about all of the incredible bands coming out of the UK that you may not know about.

My passion for music started when I was very little. My father used to blast the Eagles, Three Dog Night, Journey, Bryan Adams, Tom Petty (really I grew up listening to the best of the '70s and '80s). There was nothing I enjoyed more than sitting in the car with my father, listening to those songs and singing along. That's where I learned to love music.

As I grew up I continued to love music. I sang as part of my school's choir, took vocal lessons (in school and out of school), sang solos at after hour school events and assemblies. I also started writing lyrics. That love of lyrics is what you will see in most of the bands I recommend. Some people love the music, I love the lyrics. Don't get me wrong, the music matters, but I look at it more as a way to carry the important message of the song.

So, now that you know why I'm writing this blog, here's the boring information that people sometimes care about. I have a BA (Hons.) in Political Science with a minor in Canadian Studies from Western University, as well as a Certificate in Public Relations from Niagara College. Other than music I love to read about politics and history, hike, watch movies, do anything with animals and volunteer.

That's who I am and why you should listen to me. Hopefully I was convincing enough. If you have any suggestions or critiques email me at kwalterc@gmail.com.