Unreal Unearth is the second studio album by Irish singer-songwriter Hozier, released on September 18, 2023. Following the immense success of his debut album, Hozier (2014), which featured hits like "Take Me to Church" and "Cherry Wine," the album was highly anticipated and marks an evolution in his sound, offering a more expansive and deeper exploration of both his musical style and his lyrical themes.
Unreal Unearth delves into a rich mix of indie rock, soul, blues, and folk, with Hozier's signature emotive and poetic lyricism. It also brings a more refined and experimental production, with atmospheric soundscapes that evoke a sense of grandeur and intimacy. The album's lyrics explore complex themes such as love, loss, humanity, spirituality, mythology, and social issues.
The title Unreal Unearth reflects the album's themes of contrast—between the mystical and the tangible, the idealized and the broken. It carries a sense of searching, of confronting both inner and outer worlds, and of discovering beauty and meaning in the midst of life's imperfections. There's a deep, existential quality to much of the album, with Hozier’s often spiritual and metaphorical lyrics capturing a wide range of emotional landscapes.
The album is also influenced by Irish mythology and classic literary references, showcasing Hozier’s continuing interest in mixing modern sensibilities with historical and cultural references. While his debut album was marked by songs that were more accessible and driven by powerful hooks, Unreal Unearth introduces more layered, intricate compositions, with darker, more atmospheric moments.