Irish artist, Andrew Hozier-Byrne, otherwise known by his stage name Hozier, released his debut album titled “Hozier” in America on October 7, 2014, with the Rubyworks label. The previously popular musician from YouTube started his career with many singles including “Cherry Wine” and “Like Real People Do” before releasing this premier album featuring many other popular singles.

The rising artist was born into a musical family in Bray, County Wicklow, Ireland. Hozier decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and attended Trinity College in Dublin for music. He dropped out of the school during his first year to start recording demos with Universal Music. For three years before starting his career as an independent artist, Hozier was a part of an Irish choral group called Anúna.

This album is a reflection of Hozier on a personal level. Through symbolism and experience, Hozier sings his deep emotions loud enough for us all to hear, yet quiet enough for us to be haunted with the questions his music brings. He uses poetic language to translate powerful messages. Through the 13 original songs on this album, Hozier gives his fans a dosage of himself and his beliefs.

For example, in his hit single “Take Me to Church,” Hozier preaches about gay rights. In the lyrics, “I was born sick, but I love it,” the musician speaks out about the discrimination homosexuals face because their love is considered unnatural by some. According to an interview with fashion blog The Cut, Hozier said that he grew up in a “cultural landscape that is blatantly homophobic.”

This isn’t the only population he stands up for.  “Work Song” also exposes Hozier’s empathy towards the poorly treated African-Americans in today’s society.

Hozier’s new album is a necessity for both rainy days and sunny afternoons. While some music takes you back to the past, this music makes you feel something new. The first time I listened, I felt comforted by the beauty of the sound, but shaken by the honesty of the artist.

On the indie rock album, classic instruments such as an acoustic guitar, piano, and drums make an appearance along with unique sounds like clapping, stomping, and even chirping birds. The calming music is subtle yet overflowing with deep emotions that are begging to be heard.

Compared to other similar artists, Hozier’s sounds are not very new or original. However, his style is modern and refreshing.

The 24-year-old’s indie rock, soul, and blues music is unique for many reasons, one being that the artist writes all of his own music. Hozier said in a Rolling Stone interview that each song takes about one to one and a half years to write before it feels at home, and each is released at just the right time.

Whether your musical taste orbits around genres like pop, metal, rock or gospel, Hozier is for everyone. Listening takes you on a journey through different perspectives of both the world around you and your own life. The barred guitar and smooth, steady drums will make you feel both comforted and vulnerable.

Hozier’s music will leave you with two things: shivers reaching through your body and the need to hear more.