Four years after his breakthrough debut album, Irish singer/songwriter Hozier returns with a strong four-song EP, ‘Nina Cried Power.’

After a four-year hiatus, Grammy-nominated, Irish singer/songwriter Hozier is back! The 28-year old musician had a big-time breakthrough hit with “Take Me To Church”, a record that was definitely much more socially-conscious than most Billboard Hot 100 top two hits.  The only thing that is unfortunate about his return is that it’s in the form of an EP as opposed to another full-length album.  Despite being comprised of merely four songs, Nina Cried Power (EP) ends up being definitely worth the wait.

“Nina Cried Power”

Nina Cried Power opens ‘powerfully’ with title track “Nina Cried Power.” Hozier is in full-on soul mode, fitting given his legendary collaborator, Mavis Staples. Here, both musicians pay ode to various musicians who were unafraid to protest via their songs.  The names include legends like Nina Simone, James Brown, Joni Mitchell, Bob Dylan, and John Lennon.  The chorus – with names changing – is the best part of the record:

“And I could cry power (power)
Power (power)
Power, lord
Nina cried power
Billie cried power
Mavis cried power.”

“When I first saw you, the end was soon / To Bethlehem, it slouched and then…” “NFWMB” is quite the shift from “Nina Cried Power.” Not only does it embrace more of a folksy, alt-singer/songwriter vibe, but it is a stark contrast to the pseudo-gospel/spiritual nature of the opener.  Intriguingly, Hozier coolly and nonchalantly sings on the chorus, “Nothing fucks with my baby / Nothing can get a look in on my baby / Nothing fucks with my baby / Nothing, nothing, nothing, nothing.”

“Moment’s Silence (Common Tongue)”

“When stunted hammers place with men, my mere monstrosity / Alarms are struck and sure as shook by sheer atrocity.” Man, that’s brilliant songwriting.  Following the cool, though potent “NFWMB,” “Moment’s Silence (Common Tongue)” brings a quicker tempo and more assertiveness from Hozier.  By the final chorus, the Irishman is totally turned up, showing off those commanding, impressive pipes.

“Like a heathen clung to homily

Let the reason come to the common tongue of your lovin’ me

It’s a silent night upon rosary

Let the reason come in the common tongue of you lovin’ me.”

He continues to incorporate religious references, many which are critical of some of the church’s viewpoints, particularly regarding sex.  Hozier pulls back initially on “Shrike,” the gorgeous, Irish-infused folk ballad that closes Nina Cried Power.  Soon enough, he pushes his voice more, showcasing his power (used that word a lot) and the beauty of his instrument.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Hozier makes a fine return with Nina Cried Power (EP).  Naturally, the title track is the best moment of the EP, but the remainder of the effort is also rock solid.  The biggest rub about Nina Cried Power? It’s merely not long enough.  We need a brand-new full-length album Hozier!

Gems: “Nina Cried Power” & “NFWMB” 

Hozier • Nina Cried Power (EP) • Rubyworks / Columbia • Release: 9.7.18

Photo Credits: Rubyworks / Columbia