-Review-

Nearly four years ago Hozier, an Irish indie music artist, released his second album, “Wasteland, Baby!”  This was an instant indie music hit. He has also written many popular songs such as “Take Me to Church” and “Work Song.” Now he has returned with a new list of songs that deserve the same recognition.

His third album titled “Unreal Unearth” was released on Aug. 18, and it is truly one of the most enchanting albums of 2023.

Overall, his music is full of deep lyrics and topics. This new album is no exception. 

Hozier explained in an interview with Entertainment Weekly that the album revolves around the idea of the growth and the struggle, especially after coming back from the pandemic and evolving through something terrible.  

“It’s a way that I could process some of my personal experiences in that period of the pandemic and to credit walking through a very challenging time, a very challenging time for me,” Hozier said.

This album features two previously released singles titled “Eat Your Young” and “All Things End.” These two songs were already social media sensations at the time of their release, but the full release of this album has many new and captivating songs to offer.

This album has a range of songs from relaxing music to a peppy duet that could make anyone want to sing along.

The lyrics from songs like “First Time” and “Unknown / Nth” are absolutely beautiful and thought-provoking. With lyrics like “to share the space with simple living things” Hozier opens the minds of his listeners and inspires them to live among the earth around them, not against it.

However, some songs like “Son of Nyx” have no lyrics at all, however, they still tell a story.  “Son of Nyx” references the Greek goddess of the night, Nyx, and it’s a tribute to the late father of Hozier’s friend and bass player, Alex Ryan.  

With the topics of living simply and growing as people through good and bad experiences, “Unreal Unearth” makes it easy to appreciate the things around us.

It even includes a two-part song titled “De Selby.” In “De Selby (Part 1)” Hozier sings in Irish, which is another highlight of his musical capacity. But while they are separate songs, they merge seamlessly to create a piece similar to the feeling of not knowing where one person ends and another begins, Hozier told Entertainment Weekly.

Hozier also included a duet with Brandi Carlile called “Damage Gets Done” which was immediately popular. This song is high energy and the two voices are immaculate together. 

With gorgeous melodies and strong poetic storytelling, Hozier’s talent is showcased in every track. 

Hozier’s songs are magic in music form, and “Unreal Unearth” is an album that is certainly worth a listen.