Hozier Hints at a New Sound in his Latest Singles

By Kaitlyn Wilkes

In Hozier’s newest singles – released ahead of his upcoming third album Unreal Unearth, – the Irish singer takes his famous yearning and poetic lyrics and adds rock influences over his typical folk and blues inspired sound. This new rock inspired sound is a change from his classic blues and folk melodies and may mark a diversion for the musician.

“Francesca” slowly blossoms, a soft organ welcoming the congregation back into the church of Hozier. As the song progresses toward the refrain it picks up as the chorus sweeps in with anthemic guitars and vocals. The second verse cuts the power, going back to the simplicity of the opening but holding a different weight with the knowledge of the chorus ahead. The slightly psychedelic bridge, complete with layered and echoing vocals brings the audience down from the high, letting them drift back into the pew of the Irishman’s cathedral.

The first single from the tertiary album, “Eat Your Young,” embraces the satire of Jonathan Swift’s “A Modest Proposal” with a sincere warning about the state of the world. The skipping drum gives way to a more typical blues sound that established listeners are familiar with. However, the violins in this tune lift up the song and breathe a new life into it, further emphasized by twangy guitars. 

Rounding out the current singles, the production on the vocals of “All Things End” gives the song the electricity of a live performance. The rhythm section, accompanied by snaps and a slowly strummed guitar ooze sensuality. The higher pitched tone of the guitar matches that of the other singles, creating cohesive sonics and themes throughout the releases. Hozier’s tenor range shines as it is supplemented by a choir, adding to the feeling of religious themes often seen in the artist's previous works. 

Although not in the classical style of the “Take Me To Church” singer, the new sounds created within the world of this new album are intriguing, leaving listeners hungry for more. After four years of deprivation of a complete collection, Hozier fans are eagerly waiting on the edge of their seats, waiting for the newest musical sermon from Hozier.