Hozier went from being a singer-songwriter from Bray, Ireland to being a global star performing at the Grammys off the back of one insane viral song back in 2013.
Take Me To Church, which topped charts around the world, was such a huge success that it would have been easy for the blues-gospel track to overshadow Hoziers career. But at the stars latest gig at Londons Eventim Apollo, the 28-year-old proved that hes no one trick pony.
Of course, his fans know this. The Apollo was sold out on Wednesday night, and in the run-up to Christmas, you may have expected a rowdy crowd. But the second Andrew Hozier-Byrne came on stage, they were hanging on his every note.
Kicking off with Like Real People Do, Hoziers voice was in booming form, despite the star telling the audience that he was shaking off a cold and might need some help with the lyrics. Youd never have notice on Nina Cried Power, the title track from his latest EP – an anthemic number that showed off his range to perfection, although Hozier seemed to be rather nervous and distracted during the track.
Hozier setlist
Like Real People Do
Nina Cried Power
Angel Of Small Death and the Codeine Scene
From Eden
Jackie and Wilson
To Be Alone
NFWMB
Cherry Wine
Shrike
Arsonists Lullabye
Moments Silence (Common Tongue)
Someone New
Movement
Take Me To Church
God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen
Say My Name
Work Song
Older tracks including Angel Of Small Death and the Codeine Scene, From Eden and Jackie and Wilson were crowd-pleasers, with the nights most poignant moment coming as the band left the stage for Hozier to perform Cherry Wine with just his guitar and a spotlight.
Advertisement Advertisement
New song Shrike was sure to cause a few lumps in throats – despite Hozier cracking up the crowd by explaining the title was inspired by a bird who impales their food on thorns or barbed wire: Its both beautiful and terrifying, which I thought was a good metaphor for love.
More: Music
Of course, Take Me To Church sparked one of the biggest singalongs of the evening, but it was the encore that gave a real standout moment – Hoziers tongue in cheek and rather sexy rendition of Destinys Childs Say My Name.
Wrapping up with Work Song, anyone leaving the Apollo could not have doubted Hoziers talent. The show may have been lacking with banter and interaction, but if you were looking for soul, you would not have been disappointed.
Got a showbiz story?
If you've got a story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk Entertainment team by emailing us [email protected], calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you.
MORE: Mariah Carey proves shes the queen of Christmas in festive O2 Arena show
Advertisement Advertisement
[contf] [contfnew] 
METRO
[contfnewc] [contfnewc]
