Unreal Unearth Unending vinyl

Hozier's third album weaves an intricate tapestry of myth, love and loss, drawing heavily from Dante's The Divine Comedy as a conceptual backbone. A pandemic-born project, it traverses the depths of human experience with striking lyricism and emotive power. The opening tracks mark a descent into emotional reckoning, blending traditional Irish vocals with fresh, funky undertones. The standout 'Butchered Tongue' eloquently laments cultural erasure with haunting imagery, while 'Francesca' and 'I, Carrion (Icarian)' explore longing through mythic lenses. The record shifts effortlessly between introspection and expansiveness, peaking with 'Abstract (Psychopomp)', a poignant reflection on human compassion and 'Damage Gets Done', where Brandi Carlile's powerhouse vocals elevate a narrative of disillusioned youth. Instrumental interlude 'Son of Nyx' serves as a sonic turning point, grounding the album's thematic weight. The closing anthem, 'First Light', ascends with triumphant choirs, offering catharsis and hope. Despite occasional missteps in cohesion, the work is a testament to Hozier's artistic depth. By channeling mythic narratives and personal introspection, he crafts a collection that resonates as both otherworldly and deeply human, leaving an indelible emotional impact.