Tonight sees the opening night of the Australian leg of Hozier’s (rather extensive!) ‘Unreal Unearth’ Tour after first kicking off in the USA & Europe in 2023 in celebration of the tour’s titular album. An album written throughout the pandemic & inspired by Dante’s Inferno you are right to expect its touring show won’t have those Iron Maiden vibes. And rightfully so; it’s a different kettle of fish but, one that is definitely not to be dismissed.
Hozier has made his name with a soulful blend of indie rock, blues, and folk music, capturing hearts worldwide with emotionally powerful songs like ‘Take Me to Church’ and ‘Too Sweet.’ His lyrics are poetic stories that explore a multitude of themes including love, human connection, and faith. Not just religious faith but faith of personal redemption.
RAC Arena plunges into darkness, and with a sole spotlight shining centre stage as we open tonight against a backdrop of stars with ‘De Selby’, a song exploring the darkness of being alone. But through the darkness comes light, and with part two we find ourselves still in darkness but with someone we’d stay in the dark with. When considering the time this was written, we could reflect that even through the solitude of lockdowns we made it to the other side.
A quick hello to the crowd & a change of pace with ‘Jackie & Wilson’. The catchy song hailing from Hozier’s first album showcasing his influences, in particular blues/rock. The blues influence in his music is no surprise when you consider he was brought up surrounded by it with his Dad.
We move through songs this evening, with grace and ease, mixing old with new, booming bodhrans and soulful vocals are supported expertly with matching visuals and a solid stage show. With tree roots dropping from stage above, we descend underground with another reference to Dante.
Hozier takes a moment to appreciate Perth coffee (you heard him Melbourne!) it’s been a few years since he’s played in Australia and we’re just as happy that he’s back.
Amongst crowd favourites he sporadically checks in to see if we’re all having a good time, almost expecting a unanimous groan of “no” he gently smiles when met with a resounding “yes”. Hit after hit and “Almost (Sweet Music)” brings a moment for each of the band to bring their talents to the forefront and it’s here that you can truly see how the many pieces fit together beautifully.
Stage and lights black out for a beat, as the room is filled with the recognisable opening to ‘Take Me to Church’. It will forever be a powerhouse of a song and with its video (controversial at the time ) playing behind, it acts as a reminder to never forget the message behind it. It is a moment that is met with screams of praise from the crowd, who have loved every minute so far… we’ve had an evening full of anthemic storytelling.
Whilst the eager beavers are running free to avoid the impending traffic, those who stay are in for a treat…
With a move through the crowd, and a wee little secret stage in the middle of tonight’s stadium the encore begins with ‘Cherry Wine.’ It finished beautifully with the Perth crowd becoming the choir for the gentle closing of the last verse. With encore number two ‘Nina Cried Power’, we’re told it’s about turning to others, stepping in and stepping up and reminding himself (& us all) to check in with each other.
As Hozier returns to the main stage he talks about one of his major influences. Mavis Staples, he tells us, sang before the American civil rights speeches, a moment in time which directly impacted the Irish civil movement not long after. A movement that impacted him personally & left a lasting impression on his views, to which he has been consistently vocal about. He uses his platform to ask for peace, safety and security. A respect for international law and encouraging a peaceful resolution to what’s happening in Gaza right now. Perth showed their unwavering support as he thanked them for allowing him to speak freely.
A special request made by a fan in the crowd & a treat for the opening night (another one!) ‘Parting Glass’ is an old folk song celebrated through Scotland and Ireland, often sung at the end of a gathering of friends. Tonight we all felt like old friends.
With supporting artist Joy Odeyeo taking the stage to accompany Hozier and band for the last song of the opening night, a personal favourite of mine, and a highlight of the night bringing blues, rock and gospel together with ‘Work Song’. Whilst half the crowd may have been “fucking Irish” (his words not mine) RAC Arena as a whole have taken delight in Andrew John Hozier-Byrne tonight. His voice is quite simply beautiful and at times mesmerizing. You listen to his music to escape and come out with questions, he not only invites listeners to reflect on the complexities of life and the world around them but to be encouraged to confront the darkness.
With thanks to Jo Corbett & Live Nation for the media access and RAC Arena for their hospitality.
Photos by Hunter Brothers Media
Setlist
De Selby (Part 1)
De Selby (Part 2)
Jackie And Wilson
Nobody’s Soldier
Eat Your Young
Angel Of Small Death And The Codeine Scene
Dinner & Diatribes
Francesca
It Will Come Back
Like Real People Do
I, Carrion (Icarian)
From Eden
Abstract (Psychopomp)
Would That I
Too Sweet
Almost (Sweet Music)
Movement
Take Me To Church
Cherry Wine
Unknown
Nina Cried Power
The Parting Glass [traditional cover] (Fan request)
Work Song (with Joy Oladokun)
Band
Alex Ryan
Kellen Wenrich
Larissa Maestro
Ryan Connors
Rory Doyle
Melissa McMillan
Kamilah
Joy Morales
