HAVING released two EPs, guitar-toting Irish troubadour Andrew Hozier-Byrne, simply known as Hozier, is striking out with his eponymous debut album.

Having had the backing of Ed Sheeran, the 24-year-old singer-songwriter from Bray, County Wicklow, is definitely tipped for big things, especially after a listen to his first record, which includes some of his breakthrough hits such as debut single Take Me To Church and From Eden.

The former, with its poignant video, is a brooding slice of bluesy rock, while Jackie And Wilson, Someone New and Sedated have catchy choruses and beats you can’t help but sing along to.

Then there are the sultry opening beats of To Be Alone, the honest lyrics of From Eden and the emotions heard in his vocals throughout tracks like In A Week (featuring Karen Cowley), Work Song and closer, a live rendition of Cherry Wine.

A promising debut.

Shereen Low