Hozier on SNL

ICYMI: Hozier can undoubtedly relate to Sam Smith’s words. Will the Irish newcomer’s performance on SNL over the weekend serve to fast-track his burgeoning career as Smith’s performance did six months ago? The appearance was certainly well-timed, coming as it did on the week of the release of Hozier’s self-titled debut album (Columbia), and just as his hit single “Take Me to Church” achieves critical mass. The “Church” perf was strong, but “Angel of Small Death” might’ve been even better. The album is now #2 at iTunes and the single is moving up quickly. See I.B. Bad’s take in his latest column, which contains a Q4 prospective. (10/13a)