New Music Monday: Once (Motion Picture Soundtrack)

I realize that it is in fact Tuesday, and not Monday. Just go with it.

I know I'm a bit behind the times with this, but over the weekend I finally watched the superb indie flick Once.

If you have never seen it, do so immediately. Then read about the filming process and the backgrounds of the two main characters and prepare to be even more amazed. Then buy the soundtrack. And then go see the Broadway show version that was recently nominated for 11 Tony awards (and take me with you!).

The soundtrack consists of all of the songs that are featured in the film, all written and composed by the two stars and real-life musicians of the movie, Glen Hansard and Marketa Iglova.

The song "Falling Slowly" won the 2007 Academy Award for Best Original Song and was nominated for the 2008 Grammy award for Best Song Written for a Motion Picture.

The soundtrack itself was also nominated for the 2008 Grammy award for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for a Motion Picture (I told you I was a little behind).

The songs are both beautiful and raw, combining Glen Hansard's powerful voice and guitar playing, and Marketa Iglova's soft vocals and extraordinary piano melodies.

The duo have also collaborated and recorded songs together under the name The Swell Season. Glen Hansard was also the lead vocalist for the band The Frames, has contributed on many collaboration albums, and is releasing a solo album next month; while Marketa Iglova recently released her own solo album. Together or on their own, these two create some magnificent music, although I don't think anything will be able to surpass their collaboration on this soundtrack.



Spoiler alert! If you don't feel like waiting, here is what is in store for next week: Animal Kingdom. Love.