HOZIER IS WELCOMED HOME AT THE 3 ARENA
DEDICATED fans flocked to the alter of county Wicklow’s own Hozier last week when he played two sell out shows and concluded his Wasteland Baby tour making his debut solo appearance at Dublin’s 3 arena after an incredible year for the musician.
The night begin with ‘Castles’ singer Freya Ridings opening the show before Hozier, and he complimented her work when he began his introductions to the home crowd.
They were delighted to see his familiar presence dressed in jeans and a flowing shirt over a t-shirt, and smiles could be seen when he gave Wicklow a big shout out from the stage.
It was a homecoming full of celebration, the entrance was quick and unforgettable as the crowd realised what they were in for.
Singing his debut hit ‘Nina Cried Power’ from his latest album, it was hard to take your eyes off the background images that flashed across the large screen that had a definite home stamp.
Images of activists from across the globe appeared, but striking were the videos of Repeal the Eight campaigners in recognisable venues, something the artist had been heavily involved with, as well as LGBT+ pride parades in the streets of Dublin.
The screams and cheers were loud and echoed across the whole venue, but the introverted Hozier was happy to share the spotlight with his expanding band that originate from across the globe as well as Ireland.
Things soon got intimate as the crowd relaxed, and Hozier joined his band in the centre of the stadium amongst the crowd.
He sang his hit ‘From Eden’ from his debut album and as the confetti began to fall from above, there was an atmosphere of peace and serenity. Coming back centre stage and for the rest of the evening, there was a mixed bag of tricks from the now matured musician as genres varied from folk to rock and indie and he managed to play a number of different guitars and even gave a stint on the piano.
He treated when he played some new songs of his and announced that new music would be coming in 2020 which was met with loud shouts from all present.
Not only was it a quality experience of top-class professional music playing, it was something for the senses as each performance provided visual appeal with impressive lighting, tones and textures.