REVIEW: Hozier at Portsmouth Guildhall

Cheered by the large crowd filling the Guildhall, Irish born, Hozier, commenced Thursday's show with the mellow Like Real People Do.
Grammy-nominated musician Hozier took the crowd to church at Portsmouth Guildhall. Picture: Glenn AshleyGrammy-nominated musician Hozier took the crowd to church at Portsmouth Guildhall. Picture: Glenn Ashley
Grammy-nominated musician Hozier took the crowd to church at Portsmouth Guildhall. Picture: Glenn Ashley

Since his self-titled debut album was released Hozier (born Andrew Hozier-Byrne) has seen increasing success and tonight he plays to yet another sold-out venue.

Hozier and his band prove that they are a tight unit and all talented musicians in their own right.

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Early in the set, Hozier strummed his Bohemian oil can guitar, bringing a hint of Americana and blues and further demonstrating the diversity of his style.

From Eden was mesmerising and the duet with Karen Cowley, of supporting band Wyvern Lingo, for In A Week was beautifully haunting.

Although a huge fan of his debut album, I was keen to see if Hozier had any new material to showcase tonight.

Unfortunately the setlist did not veer too far from the album.

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Hozier’s take on David Bowie’s Young Americans was done well in a slower tempo, utilising the choir-esque support from his band.

His cover of Blackbird by The Beatles was also a highlight.

And when he performed his signature song Take Me To Church, a sea of camera phones surfaced and the crowd could now leave satisfied.

Hozier is one impressive and talented musician and I am eagerly waiting to hear new material – when it eventually makes the setlist.

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