Irish singer-songwriter Hozier may create smooth pop-rock hits like “Take Me to Church,” “Almost (Sweet Music),” “Someone New” and “Cherry Wine” but he’s not just churning out ballads perfect for movie trailers. Before striking out as a solo artist, Hozier was a member of the long-running Irish choir Anúna, contributing his vocals to Irish folk songs and other traditionalist compositions, and after that he was the bassist for the punk rock band Raven and the Radicals , providing two very different experiences to inform his music. As a solo artist, Hozier remains politically active, taking on serious subjects in his music even as his songs reach wide audiences with their accessible hooks and slick production.
The video for “Take Me to Church” targets violence against the gay community in Russia, and the video for “Cherry Wine” aims to raise domestic violence awareness. On his 2018 collaboration with Mavis Staples, “Nina Cried Power,” Hozier pays tribute to activist musicians of the past. Hozier’s latest album, Wasteland, Baby!, which debuted at the top of the Billboard charts, continues to combine pop songwriting with important themes. It’s an approach that has kept Hozier relevant both musically and socially.
The Pearl at Palms, 8 p.m. April 7, starting at $45.95 plus tax and fee. 702.944.3200
