Irish singer and songwriter Hozier is on the cusp of claiming his first-ever U.K. chart-topping position with his latest album "Unreal Unearth," released under the Island label. The buzz around the album is translating into a robust lead on the charts.

The release of "Unreal Unearth," Hozier's third album, has ignited a rapid ascent to the No. 1 spot on the Official Chart Update. This achievement is poised to surpass the success of his eponymous debut album from 2014, which achieved a peak position of No. 3 and introduced his trans-Atlantic hit single "Take Me to Church." His subsequent album, "Wasteland, Baby" from 2019, reached a peak of No. 6 on the U.K. charts.

According to sales and streaming data made available by the Official Charts Company midweek, Scottish indie-rock group the View is positioned for a No. 2 debut with "Exorcism Of Youth," their sixth album released by Cooking Vinyl. If this holds, "Exorcism Of Youth" would mark the band's fourth top 10 album in the U.K., and their highest ranking since their debut album "Hats Off to the Buskers" claimed the No. 1 spot in 2007. This debut album also housed their sole top 10 single "Same Jeans," which reached No. 3 in the year of its release.

On the horizon for British pop artist Birdy is a potential career-best placement on the Official Albums Chart with "Portraits," her fifth studio album released by Warner Music U.K. "Portraits" has secured the No. 3 position on the chart blast. The top four is rounded out by U.S. artist Renee Rapp, who is anticipated to make her U.K. chart debut with "Snow Angel," her inaugural LP released under Interscope. The album's current position is No. 4 on the chart blast.

Further down the lineup, post-punk favorites Talking Heads are eyeing a resurgence for their live album "Stop Making Sense" released by Parlophone. This album, which is returning with an expanded edition to commemorate its 40th anniversary, has the potential to re-enter the charts at No. 13. This would outperform its previous peak of No. 24, reached in 2000. In an exciting development, the members of Talking Heads are set to make a public appearance together for the first time since their 2002 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. This gathering will occur during a 40th-anniversary celebration of the live concert film that the album is derived from.

Wrapping up the midweek tally, English boyband Here At Last's EP "1," released by Halo Army, is poised for a notable debut at No. 22. Additionally, BTS member J-Hope has the potential to secure a top 40 placement with "Jack In The Box," reentering at No. 28 on the midweek survey after the release of an expanded physical version.

The complete rankings and positions will be unveiled when the Official U.K. Albums Chart is published on August 25th.