Forest Hills Stadium in Queens, NY, was transformed into a haven of soulful melodies and powerful performances as Hozier took the stage for his "Unreal Unearth" tour. Opening the night was the talented Allison Russell, whose set laid a perfect foundation for what was to come. East Coast Music Review was there to capture the magic and get some fantastic photos of the evening.
Hozier, born Andrew Hozier-Byrne, is an Irish musician known for his hauntingly beautiful voice and deeply poetic lyrics. He gained international fame with his debut single "Take Me to Church" in 2013, which earned multiple award nominations and accolades. His music often explores themes of love, spirituality, and social issues, delivered with a mix of folk, blues, and soul influences.
The night began with "Too Sweet," immediately drawing the audience into Hozier's world with its rich, emotive soundscapes. The energy escalated with "Jackie and Wilson," a tribute to musical legends, showcasing Hozier’s ability to blend rock and soul effortlessly. "To Be Alone" followed, a track that highlighted his mastery of creating an intimate yet powerful atmosphere.
"Dinner & Diatribes" brought a vibrant, almost rebellious energy to the set, contrasting beautifully with the tender "Wildflower and Barley," performed alongside Allison Russell. This collaboration was a highlight, with their voices blending harmoniously and adding an extra layer of depth to the performance.
As the set continued, "Francesca" and the poignant "Eat Your Young" showcased Hozier’s lyrical prowess, capturing the audience's attention with every word. A solo acoustic rendition of "Cherry Wine" provided a moment of introspection and raw emotion, reminding everyone of Hozier's roots in intimate, storytelling songwriting.
"Unknown/Nth," another solo performance, kept the audience in a reflective mood before the energy ramped up again with "De Selby (Part 1)" and "De Selby (Part 2)." These tracks, filled with intricate rhythms and haunting melodies, demonstrated Hozier's versatility and musical innovation.
"From Eden" and "Would That I" brought back familiar favorites, delighting long-time fans with their rich, narrative lyrics and captivating melodies. "Almost (Sweet Music)" and "It Will Come Back" continued to enchant the audience, blending catchy tunes with profound lyrical content.
Photos: Ehud Lazin
The main set concluded with "Movement" and the iconic "Take Me to Church," the latter of which had the entire stadium singing along, creating a communal and almost spiritual experience.
Photos: Jared Miller
The encore began with the tender "Like Real People Do," followed by the powerful "Nina Cried Power," a tribute to activists and artists who have fought for justice and equality. The night ended on a high note with "Work Song," featuring Allison Russell once again. This final collaboration was a testament to the night’s theme of unity and the power of music to bring people together.
Hozier's performance at Forest Hills Stadium was a masterclass in blending lyrical depth with musical brilliance. His ability to connect with the audience, coupled with his powerful stage presence, made for an unforgettable evening. The "Unreal Unearth" tour continues to solidify Hozier's place as one of the most compelling artists in contemporary music.
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