It looks like fans of the Frames will have to wait a spell more for the band’s next rock album. The reason is sitting comfortably in my CD player - making hay while the sun shines is what it’s called. And one cannot argue that another Swell Season album was almost inevitable following Hansard and Irglova’s huge worldwide surge in popularity, following the duo’s astounding Oscar win. But all is not lost! STRICT JOY also features the band in wonderful voice.

On first listen, as a long and loyal fan of Hansard and Co, I was unsure about how good this album is, and very surprised that I wasn’t knocked back in my chair as so often before by these guys (and gals). But on second and third play this album grew on me like few others have. You see, the songs drill tiny holes in my head and heart, that grow bigger with each play. ‘Low Rising’ opens proceedings with a slow moving contemplative folk-rock song, with Hansard’s huge trademark melody and immaculate lyrics driving it. Rob Bochnik’s (Frames) contributes some telling guitar touches while the rest of the band are superb. This could easily be a Frames song…

‘Feeling The Pull’ is a typically melancholy song but with a driving rocky punch, and the addition of a few glorious flashes of brass to make this one dramatic, exciting song. ‘In These Arms’ calms things down with a gentle, stripped-down song where Hansard and Irglova perform the most subtle and beautiful of duettes. The melody is peerless, the vibe sincere and moving. ‘The Rain’ opens with a solitary guitar strum and Hansard vocal. As the song progresses the band opens up at full force, and a little further down the track the almost inevitable crashing crescendo arrives that send shivers down the spine. An incredible song!

‘Fantasy Man’ represents the first solo outing on the album for Irglova. The song is charming in its simplicity, while Irglova’s sweet, young voice melts icebergs… ‘Paper Cup’ is gentle, quiet and reflective song with an expressive, intimate Hansard vocal communicating the most beautiful lyrics (”Maybe time will decide/The restless spirit can’t survive/On breadcrumb trails no more.”). ‘High Horses’ reminds me of the slower Frames songs albeit that there is the most subtle Irglova backing vocal lurking. And then there’s the slow-burning Frames instrumental fuse that eventually takes over with more backing vocals, heightened drum beats, and an explosive crescendo that is so typical, and so welcome.  

‘The Verb’ provides the same magical musical formula, while ‘I Have Loved You Wrong’ sees Irglova back on solo vocal and piano, with the Frames providing a cinematic style of instrumentation and Hansard this time supplying the most sensitive backing vocal. It’s a superb song with words and music by Irglova. ‘Love That Conquers’ is a wonderful ballad with a strong Celt folk vibe, and retro style vocal harmonies that work wonderfully well. The Frames also provide a very distinctive instrumental backdrop which completes a fine musical package. ‘Back Broke’ concludes the album with one of its major highlights. This simple song flows softly with another close-mic Hansard vocal that expressively and thoughtfully communicates its introspective, emotional, loving message. Stunning!

I have yet to review a mediocre Hansard/Irglova/Frames album and begin to wonder if such a thing was remotely possible. At the heart of this album is the finest quality song writing, and reflections of real life and emotions driven my superb performances and melodies. I suspect that this may become one of the band’s best and most sold records. Now all that remains is for the Frames to release a new album that really ROCKS!

4.5/5