Photo taken from @hozier Instagram

While performing on stage, Hozier shows his love to his fans.

The folky, singer-songwriter genre is undeniably on the rise. If you listen to artists like Noah Kahan, Zach Bryan, Flatland Calvary, The Lumineers, and Bon Iver, then allow me to introduce you to the amazing Hozier.

Hozier is an Irish soul-folk musician and songwriter. If you haven’t heard of him before, you’ve probably heard some of his songs on TikTok, like “Take Me to Church” or “Cherry Wine.” Or maybe you’ve seen that video of him singing on the NYC subway– which was heavenly, may I add. However people may have heard of him, most still don’t seem to know and appreciate him and his music. So, friends and future fans, come along with me as we delve into the marvelous world of Hozier. 

Hozier’s newest album, “Unreal Unearth,” is based on Dante’s “Inferno.” Each song is brimming with allusions to the divine comedy. My favorite song on the album– “Damage Gets Done” featuring Brandi Carlile– grapples with the idea of reckless behavior and the long-term effects that it can have on society. This song is inspired by the fourth circle of hell in Dante’s “Inferno,” which is known as the “Circle of Greed.

The students of Rosary have been listening to “Unreal Unearth,” and they already have some favorites. Senior Spencer Thiemann reveals her favorite song: “‘Unknown / Nth.’ It’s just so good. Listening to it is like a full-body experience.” Siena Lopez ‘24 chimes in with her favorite: “‘All Things End’ because the choir in the background vocals is what I think Heaven will sound like when I get there.”

Hozier is known for sneaking powerful messages into his songs that are already jam-packed with beautiful melodies. For example, “Nina Cried Power” featuring Mavis Staples, the title track from a 2018 EP, highlights the legacies of social justice activists and singers while also calling attention to powerful civil rights protestors: “Power has been cried by those stronger than me / Straight into the face that tells you to / Rattle your chains if you love being free.” Long-time Hozier fan Sara Garcia ‘24 gives her opinion: “Hozier’s social activism has inspired me to spread the seeds of social change in my life and to seek to better my community in a peaceful and loving way.”

Recently, Hozier had a show at the Hollywood Bowl, and our Royals were quick to jump at the chance to see the performance. Junior Kate Piper shares her experience at the concert: “It was really fun! The Hollywood Bowl was a cool venue. I went with my friend Eleanor, and our favorite songs [performed] were ‘Francesca’ and ‘Cherry Wine.’” Okay, I’m a *little* jealous. 

Well, if what you just read doesn’t make you want to hop on the Hozier train, I don’t know what will. And if you do already listen to him, comment your favorite song!