Zach Bryan: Late-Night Conversations That Will Fill Arenas

Zach Bryan, the Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter, continues to explore the nuances of his arresting music in his latest album. With collaborations from Kacey Musgraves and The Lumineers, Bryan's self-produced album showcases his skillful songwriting and emotional vocals. The album delves into self-lacerating melancholia and up-close realism, making it a gripping listen.

Zach Bryan, the Oklahoma-born singer-songwriter, made waves in the pop music scene last year with his unexpected hit, "Something in the Orange." The song, characterized by its raw instrumentation and haunting vocals, reached Number 10 on the Hot 100 chart. Since then, the 27-year-old Navy veteran has established himself as a unique force in modern popular music, seamlessly blending the catchy storytelling of Music Row, the unfiltered portrayal of modern Americana found in heartland rock, and the stripped-down ideals of insurgent country.

In his latest album, titled "Zach Bryan," the follow-up to his double album "American Heartbreak," Bryan continues to demonstrate his commitment to staying humble and hungry. Rather than letting his chart successes define him, he delves deeper into the intricacies that make his music so captivating. The album consists of 16 tracks, some of which feature collaborations with country-pop troubadour Kacey Musgraves and folk duo The Lumineers. Each song feels like an intimate late-night conversation, with Bryan's talent for crafting concise yet profound lyrics matched by his ability to evoke a wide range of emotions with just a few syllables.

Not only did Bryan write and perform the songs on the album, but he also took on the role of producer. His innate understanding of what makes his music resonate allows each track to breathe and pulsate with intensity. Stripped-down songs like "Smaller Acts," accompanied by the gentle chirping of birds in the background, and "Oklahoman Son," a reflective piece that takes stock of Bryan's roots, serve as poignant moments that amplify the impact of the more expansive tracks. The centerpiece of the album is the two-song suite titled "Jake's Piano - Long Island." It begins with a minimalistic apology for past mistakes, with Bryan passionately singing, "The best parts of you are here, but you're still gone," while an organ softly hums in the background. The second half of the suite transforms into a dynamic jam session, complete with weeping steel guitars, as Bryan's voice breaks under the weight of his confession, "my mind ain't well and I just can't tell you why." This self-reflective melancholy never veers into self-indulgence, instead delving into the complexities and nuances that define one's darkest days.

Elsewhere on the album, Bryan collaborates with soul-Americana duo The War and Treaty on the song "Hey Driver." This rueful yet optimistic anthem celebrates the open road and offers a glimmer of hope amidst the hardships of life. Bryan's voice intertwines with the spirited yelps of War and Treaty vocalist Michael Trotter Jr., creating a harmonious blend that exudes triumph and resilience. Together, they find solace in the idea that a different place might offer an escape from the struggles of the world. However, it's important to note that Zach Bryan's music doesn't shy away from confronting these cruelties. Instead, he presents them with a careful and deliberate approach, showcasing his undeniable songwriting talents and making the album an enthralling and thought-provoking listening experience.