03 May Headliner Review: Hozier

One of the biggest names to hit SunFest this year currently has the hit single the nation can’t stop singing. The Irish singer-songwriter and musician, Andrew Hozier-Byrne, led fans on a soothing adventure from the Ford Stage last night.

Hozier’s rise to stardom has been swift. The popular heartthrob only released his first debut album last year, and the world ate it up. He had the most-streamed song on Spotify last year. “Take Me To Chuch” was nominated for a Grammy. He announced a 30-date American tour that sold out faster than the most recent designer Target collection.

Hozier, like Kaskade, had just finished playing Indio’s Coachella. But I waited to see him at SunFest. I had a feeling our more intimate sunny festival would really allow the musician shine.

I was right. SunFest would be Hozier’s first time visiting and performing in Florida, and fans were anxiously ready to welcome him.

Opening with “Like Real People Do,” Hozier plucked at his glitzy guitar and allowed a grin to sweep across his lips at the cries of the crowd. The serene and sexy artist came with an entourage of talented musicians, most of whom (if not all) helped lend backup vocals to his songs.

“It’s good to see you too,” he said shyly.

He moved into “Angel Of Small Death & The Codeine Scene,” and then “To Be Alone.”

“This is a song about asking someone to do the merciful thing, cut all the ropes and let you go,” he said, introducing “It Will Come Back.”

He would later perform a stripped down version of “Cherry Wine,” closer to the crowd.

“Have you all been having a good day?” he asked. “I’m very glad. My day brightened up about 50 minutes ago.”

There must be an incredible amount of pressure on the Irish artist to succeed, to smash the notion of being a “one hit wonder,” and field questions about another album just months after a debut release. Fans want more, record labels want more, and you’re constantly making a first impression.

Keeping this in mind, there were no unreasonably high expectations from me as I stood in the crowd, watching white and blue lights pour over the stage. If he hadn’t earned his stage “sea legs,” he would soon. I would undoubtedly see him again.

However, I am thrilled to report all my hopes were met and exceeded by Hozier. His rich voice, graceful stage presence, and beautiful sounds filled my heart with happiness. (I wasn’t the only one, see tweets below!)

“[With this next song] don’t be afraid to join in, don’t be afraid of it,” Hozier said, strumming the opening chords to his wildly popular hit, “Take Me To Church.” The Ford stage morphed into a sweet sing-a-long.

Hozier ended with “Work Song,” followed by a handsome bow before the crowd.

There is no better venue than SunFest to welcome you to Florida.