Hozier - the stage name of Andrew Hozier Byrne - started singing in public from as early as 8 years of age. He joined his first band - a soul band - at the age of 15 in Wicklow, Ireland. Now 24 he's making a huge stir - in part because of his soulful voice and intense songwriting, and also in part because of this provocative and daring video, directed by former Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty (whose film work has included performances by the likes of Bob Mould and Eddie Vedder).
Take Me To Church is a sensous and sexual song, with Hosier singing 'Take me to church I'll worship like a dog at the shrine of your lies I'll tell you my sins and you can sharpen your knife Offer me that deathless death Good God, let me give you my life'. The video takes on that sensuosness sexuality and uses it to make a powerful statement against the rising tide of homophobia and anti-gay violence seen in places like Putin's Russia. The video has already become a viral sensation with more than 2million views to date.
Great video - great song, and really exciting new artist