Hozier Grows His Legend At The Hammerstein Ballroom

In less than a year’s time, Hozier has gone from relative obscurity to one of the best touring acts today. On the heels of the breakout hit, “Take Me To Church,” which has been featured on countless TV shows and commercials, Hozier has been a non-stop touring machine and in the process has won over the hearts of people everywhere with his good looks and incomparable voice.

Last time Hozier hit the city he played Irving Plaza, this time around, only 5 months later he filled the Hammerstein Ballroom (which has more than triple the capacity of the Bowery) with screeching teenage girls, and older folks alike to see the rising star. Most people got there early, especially the young ladies on the rail, some of which had been there since 6am. Before they could get their fill of Hozier, another British singer/songwriter in the form of George Ezra played a short set of infectious tunes, mostly named after cities like; “Budhapest,” and “Barcelona” that had the full room dancing and singing along.

As soon as Hozier hit the stage it was not-unlike (I’m imagining) when The Beatles dropped on our shores, as the high-pitched screaming/screeching took over the large hall; it was deafening and it actually hurt a bit and reminded me of those old B+W videos from the Sullivan show. This would repeat every time a song would end and seemingly grew louder as the night wore on.

He played his hits such as “Work Song” and the aforementioned “Take Me To Church,” which was easily the highlight of the night with the crowd sing-along. Hozier mentioned how beautiful the room was and how thankful he really is that he’s able to sell out rooms like the legendary Hammerstein Ballroom. Do what you can to see this Irish bard, you won’t be disappointed!

SET-LIST

1. Angel Of Small Death And The Codeine Scene 2. From Eden 3. Jackie And Wilson 4. Someone New 5. To Be Alone 6. It will Come Back 7. In a Week 8. Illinois Blues (Skip James Cover) 9. Like Real People Do 10. Arsonist’s Lullabye 11. Foreigners God 12. Sedated 13. Take Me To Church