Hozier
Nina Cried Power
[Rubyworks]
In the lead up to this release, Hozier played a string of intimate practice shows in The Academy. Fittingly, this four track EP plays out somewhat like a rehearsal itself.
2014 saw Hozier scale Irish and international charts and embark on an extensive world tour. With several years passed, and attention fixed on the (dreaded) sophomore release, Hozier Byrne’s decision to return with a short play is a small masterstroke. Nina Cried Power has gifted Hozier some breathing room before the release for his second full length while also providing an opportunity for the songwriter to test the waters, experiment with his signature sound, and re-introduce himself to fans.
Kicking off with an electrifying Mavis Staples collaboration, the title track and lead single suggests Byrne might lean deeper into a more soulful vibe.
Yet the 28 year-old Bray native is dabbles in a different genre for each track – delivering a mix of soul, folk and blues, across these 17 stellar minutes with the same proficiency and flourish demonstrated throughout his first record.
Ultimately, Nina Cried Power should temporarily assuage fans on its own merit while hopefully doubling as an appetizer for a more rewarding major release from Ireland’s most promising star. Based on this material, it seems reasonable to expect further greatness from Hozier.
Words: Andrew Lambert
If you like this, try these:
Bon Iver, Bon Iver – Bon Iver
Pure Comedy – Father John Misty
Astral Weeks – Van Morrison
