Hozier makes a welcome return Stateside, making a stop at the sold-out Rave in Milwaukee in support of his latest album, Wasteland, Baby!
First up for the night’s festivities were twin brothers and sister group, Bailen. These New Yorkers made a fantastic impression on the already ample-sized crowd who frequently cheered throughout the trio’s set. Their songs were laden with beautiful harmonies and they put on a very tight performance. They have just released their debut album, Thrilled To Be Here, which, if this set was anything to go by, will certainly be worth checking out. They had great songs and hooks, and members of the audience could be seen dancing along. When you have an opening act like this who can create such a buzz early on, you know you’re in for a great show.
With the sold-out Eagles Ballroom filled to capacity, it was time for Hozier and the band to take to the stage. The screams from the eager and excited audience were deafening, a reaction which prompted a genuine smile from the man himself to his fellow bandmates on receiving the warm welcome. He even marveled at the size of the crowd, which is a true reflection of his ever-growing popularity which is going from strength to strength.September and October 2018 saw Hozier tour the US with a limited 17-date run in support of his EP, Nina Cried Power. This time, he is back with a more extensive tour of the States on the back of his latest full album release, Wasteland, Baby! This highly anticipated release was well worth the wait with the songs easily standing shoulder to shoulder with those from Hozier, which was clearly demonstrated throughout the night as the fans sang along and danced to the entire set. You could be excused for thinking there was a full choir in attendance between the numerous backing vocalists on stage and the audience whole-heartedly joining in, alternating between the lead vocal line and the backing vocals. It certainly was a feast for the ears.
The set started out on a high with the beautiful “Would That I” which got everyone’s vocal cords nicely warmed up, before heading into the catchy riff of “Dinner & Diatribes.” The majority of the set was comprised of songs from the Wasteland, Baby! which the audience proved they were more than a little familiar with, however, there were also a good number of songs from his popular first album. The set had a powerful lead in to the encore with the ever-popular “Take Me To Church” before ending the night on a more relaxed note with the beautiful “Cherry Wine,” the contagious “To Noise Making (Sing),” and finally “Work Song.”
The buzz around Hozier is gaining momentum, and rightly so. The venues are getting bigger, and the crowds are growing. Those who have seen him perform live can’t help but gush to their friends about it afterward. It seems those who have seen him perform live are devotees for life. Want to see what all the fuss is about? You need to be quick because the majority of the dates on this tour have already sold out and it’s only a matter of time before the rest do.
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