Irish singer/songwriter Hozier, (full name Andrew Hozier-Byrne), filled the Troubadour to the brim last night with the promise of raw emotion and fearless vulnerability. Hailing from County Wicklow, Ireland, Hozier is an automatic heartthrob offering handsome and reverential american blues. His soulful songs about life and love permeate with the kind of weighty lyrics that made girls in the first row warn that they may use each other’s hair to wipe away tears. Hozier opened the night with slow-starter “Like Real People Do” – a genuine heart-grabber showcasing his husky voice and powerful themes. Every single young lady in the audience dreamed of being his subjects of thought making Hozier the perfect soundtrack for any first or even hundred-and-first hipster date. Female cellist and keyboard player added texture with angelic backing vocals that complimented Hozier’s rough-around-the-edges croon. Swoon-alongs “Cherry Wine” and “To Be Alone” from his last 2 EP’s were audience-favorites but the truest emotion was evident during “Work Song” – a soulful track with gospel-backing that completely transcends race and generation. Hozier’s rich performance had everyone in the audience spellbound especially during anthem “Take Me To Church” and closer “From Eden” showing himself to be eloquent and passionate well beyond his 24 years. He is the perfect combination of Black Keysian blues with deeper romance. Similar to fellow folk/blues/soul mates Ray LaMontagne and Paolo Nutini, and with influences like John Lee Hooker, Otis Redding, and Nina Simone, Hozier may not realize how easy he is to need.

All photos and words by me for LA Record