Zach Bryan (album)

Bryan revealed that there is "no grand explanation" or "riddle in reasoning" behind any of the songs on the album. Instead, he simply described them as "poems and songs" he wanted to share because he thought they were special. He referred to the tracks as "heavy" and "hopeful" but what matters most to him is that they are his.^[5] Upon release, Bryan announced that listeners should not come into the album thinking it would be a "chart topper" or that this was his "intent", otherwise they would be "severely disappointed".^[6]

Bryan first shared previews of ten tracks on June 25, 2023, on his Instagram and hinted at an upcoming album release. He also revealed that this record was for him and that he does not care if listeners like it.^[7] The singer-songwriter announced the album with details about the cover and track listing on August 9.^[8] This album was somewhat of an unconventional release from Bryan as he previewed singles from it two months prior to release. The songs had no specific meaning, but instead were just made for the love of making music and found these songs to be special. The rawness and relatability of this album played into the great success it had.^[9] He collaborated with several different artists/bands who Bryan has admired during his time making music career.^[10] In other albums he created QR codes that granted access to previews on singles, creations of how songs were made, and other behind the scenes footage of the album's creation that also enhance the listeners experiences leading up to the release of the album.^[11] Unlike other albums that used QR codes, social media was the only form of marketing this album had. The album was self-produced and marketed through social media rather than large market promotions which made it more authentic to his fans, and built a strong connection.

Consisting of 16 tracks, Zach Bryan is a country rock album that incorporates elements of indie rock, folk, and country music.^[12][13][14] Bryan's songwriting is rooted in folk and heartland rock tradition of emotional exploration, and it details personal sentiments revolving heartbreak, loss, and nostalgia.^[14][15] According to Rolling Stone's Jeff Gage, the narratives of the Zach Bryan songs evoke Southern Gothic.^[16]

More information Aggregate scores, Source ...

Professional ratings

Aggregate scores
Source	Rating
Metacritic	79/100[17]
Review scores
Source	Rating
AllMusic	[18]
And It Don't Stop	A[19]
Paste	8.1/10[20]
Pitchfork	6.7/10[15]
Rolling Stone	[21]

Close

Zach Bryan received a score of 79 out of 100 on review aggregator Metacritic based on four critics' reviews, indicating "generally favorable" reception.^[17] In a positive review, Maura Johnston of Rolling Stone opined that Bryan showcases a "careful presentation of his obvious songwriting talents" which makes for a "gripping listen" and praised his ability to not only give his songs room to breathe but "to seethe and yearn". Johnston thought the album was a blend between "hooky Nashville storytelling" and "Americana realism".^[21] Sam Sodomsky of Pitchfork wrote that Bryan "works with a traditionalist's appreciation for songwriting and the intense, earnest emotion of heartland rock", concluding that his "fierce determination also ends up being his saving grace. Whatever effect his songs have on you, there's never any doubt they're coming from the heart".^[15]

Zach Bryan debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 with 200,000 album-equivalent units (including 17,000 in pure album sales), the largest week for a rock album in four years and Bryan's first number-one album. It also earned the largest streaming week for a rock album in Billboard chart history.^[13] Zach Bryan remained atop the US Billboard 200 in its second week, moving an additional 115,000 album-equivalent units (including 3,000 in pure album sales), being a 42% decrease from its debut week.^[26]

Zach Bryan fell two places to number three in its third week on the US Billboard 200, moving an additional 95,000 album-equivalent units.^[27] In the albums fourth week of charting on the US Billboard 200, it remained at number three—moving an additional 79,000 album-equivalent units thus bringing Zach Bryan’s four week total to 489,000 units earned.^[28]

The album also debuted at number one in Canada,^[29] and New Zealand,^[30] and at number two in Australia and Ireland.^[31][32]

All tracks written by Zach Bryan except where noted; tracks also produced by Bryan except "Oklahoman Son" produced by Eddie Spear.^[33]

Credits adapted from AllMusic.^[34]

Vocals

Musicians

Production