With his untamed locks secured in a casual low ponytail, clad in a sharp gray suit paired with pristine white high-top Chuck Taylors, and wielding an electric guitar, Hozier takes center stage at the Leader Bank Pavilion. This signifies the start of two long-awaited sold-out concerts in Boston as part of the “Unreal Unearth” tour. The singer’s excitement is palpable as he graciously acknowledges the tremendous support he’s received from his Boston audience.
Hozier kicked off the night with his song “De Selby,” a track inspired by a character from the book “The Third Policeman.” Originally presented as two distinct parts on his album, the first seamlessly melds into the second. This musical journey delves into the concept of darkness as a realm of freedom and infinite potential, exploring how the presence of love within this darkness becomes a catalyst for transformation, unlocking the door to collaborative creation with another soul. This track beautifully sets the stage for an evening filled with the singer’s signature blend of inspiring music and profound moments of introspection, delivering exactly what fans have come to expect from his performances.
Throughout the night, the room became a chorus, harmonizing with the singer as though the entire audience had been hired as a choir for the evening. Nowhere was this more evident than during “Cherry Wine,” a moment when Hozier traded his electric guitar for an acoustic one, enveloping the venue in a tranquil ambiance.
Hozier’s band was a highlight of the show, boasting an array of instruments, from synths and percussion to bass, guitars, keys, and even a cello – you name it, it’s there. Every sound you hear in this performance is skillfully crafted by a live musician on the stage. This grants the audience a distinctive interpretation of Hozier’s tracks and infuses an undeniable authenticity into the performance. Those in attendance come to witness one artist but depart having experienced the collective talents of many, making it a truly remarkable and multifaceted experience.
As the night unfolds, Hozier masterfully weaves through his setlist, occasionally pausing to offer glimpses into the deeper meaning behind some of his songs or to share the anecdotes that inspired them. Take, for instance, the track “I, Carrion,” which draws inspiration from the timeless Greek myth of Icarus. Hozier vividly recounts the tale of Icarus, who dared to venture too close to the sun, resulting in his wings igniting and a fall so exquisitely beautiful that, in Hozier’s own words, “When he arrived to dead, he was in complete denial it had happened”.
Then there’s “To Someone From A Warm Climate,” a song that delves into the stark contrast between the experiences of those living in frigid, wintry cities and the residents of warmer, sun-soaked locales. Hozier delivers this piece with a heartfelt dedication to those who’ve never known the biting chill of winter, creating a poignant connection with his audience.
Hozier’s storytelling prowess shone brilliantly through his songs. As the night drew to a close, the moment everyone had been waiting for arrived – “Take Me to Church,” the song that catapulted Hozier to global stardom and elevated his career to new heights.
During this anthem, the entire stadium ignited with light, and the song’s message, coupled with the unified voices of the crowd harmonizing with Hozier, transformed the experience into something ethereal and transcendent. The intensity of the lyrics and the electric energy in the room lingered long after the final notes of the song.
Following this electrifying performance, Hozier gracefully exited the stage for the encore, but the thunderous cheers and standing ovation from the audience showed no sign of waning, a testament to the enduring impact of the evening’s remarkable experience.
Hozier made a triumphant return to the stage, drawing the night to a close with a mesmerizing rendition of “Like Real People Do,” “Unknown/Nth,” and “Work Song.” He took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude, not only to every member of his band but also to the unsung heroes behind the scenes— a dedicated team of 72 individuals who breathed life into the show.
Hozier’s “UNREAL UNEARTH” performance not only met but exceeded every expectation. The exceptional musical talent, the captivating setlist, and, most importantly, the artist’s unguarded authenticity and candor created an otherworldly experience, a true spiritual journey for all in attendance. The energy of the evening will continue to resonate throughout the city, leaving an indelible mark on the hearts of those fortunate enough to be part of this event.
LISTEN TO HOZIER HERE!
CATCH THE “UNREAL UNEARTH” TOUR HERE!
