Swell Season Announces First Album in 16 Years, Sets June Release

Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, the Oscar-winning folk duo known as The Swell Season, have announced their first new album in 16 years, titled 'Forward,' set for release on June 13. The album, produced by Sturla Mio Thorisson and recorded at Masterkey Studios in Iceland, features eight tracks, including the singles 'People We Used to Be' and 'Stuck in Reverse.' Both artists have noted that the reunion allowed them to reconnect as changed individuals and reignite their creative partnership without the pressures that followed their Academy Award win for 'Falling Slowly.' The creation of 'Forward' was described as a natural and unforced process, with the duo allowing new material to emerge organically during live performances and studio sessions. The Swell Season will support the release with an international tour, marking a new chapter in their musical journey. The project also features contributions from original and new band members, reinforcing the group’s collaborative spirit.