If you haven't heard yet, Zach Bryan dropped a new EP, "Boys Of Faith" today. This EP consists of 5 songs, two of which include features from two of my other favorite artists: Bon Iver and Noah Kahan.
Based on what I've seen on social media, it seems that the release of this EP took most of us by surprise. While many of us Zach fans expected him to release a song on Friday after seeing his reply to an Instagram comment pictured below, we were not expecting him to drop a whole EP. Especially since it hasn't even been a month since he released his chart-topping self-titled album. The man really doesn't stop.
Nine Ball
'Nine Ball' opens up this EP in a great way; it's a catchy, fun-sounding song that grabs your attention. However, it seems that underneath how upbeat-sounding this song is, the lyrics detail a darker story which is seen in lyrics such as "won't you take me fishing?" and "you'll probably be nothin' but this town's old drunkard / and die on a smoke-stained stool".
Sarah's Place (feat. Noah Kahan)
Ever since Zach covered Noah Kahan's song 'Stick Season' on TikTok back in July 2022, I have wanted these two to collaborate and figured it was just a matter of time until they did. I remember getting so excited when Zach posted an Instagram Story of his dog, Jack Daniels, and Noah in the studio earlier this week.
I find the storytelling and imagery used in this song beautiful. Noah and Zach sound great together and you really can hear both of their significant musical styles in this song.
Boys Of Faith (feat. Bon Iver)
I have been saying for years now that a Zach Bryan / Bon Iver collaboration needs to happen and it finally has. Bon Iver has been one of my favorite artists since I was about 10 years old so this collaboration means a lot to me, more than I can effectively put into words at this time. It's hard for me to pick a favorite off this EP but if I had to it would be this one.
I feel that, in this song as well, both Zach and Bon Iver's styles shine through. Both their voices and their musical styles work so well together; it is a beautiful, captivating blend. After how great this song turned out, I really hope that Bon Iver and Zach collaborate again in the future.
In addition to the song itself being beautiful, the lyrics hit hard for me as well. The lyrics make me think of my best friends who "stuck around when I was down" and how grateful I am for them. Actually, we decided last night at 11:17 CST that this song was now our group's song.
Deep Satin
The long wait for 'Deep Satin' to be released is finally over. I remember hearing Zach play this one live last September at his show in Franklin, Tennessee, and after that show, I truly thought he would be releasing it soon. Boy was I wrong. Even though we had to wait a while, I truly believe that the wait for this song was worth it.
I love how this song builds but slows down again for the final chorus. It has a cathartic feel to it that makes you want to scream-sing, nod your head, or, in my case, slap your steering wheel.
Pain, Sweet, Pain
In all honesty, I wasn't sure if Zach would ever release 'Pain, Sweet, Pain' but I am so glad he did as I love this song. I have listened to this song countless times on YouTube since he posted it back in 2020. I find it so fascinating to hear the differences between this recording and the original video. (I'll be honest, I kinda miss J.R. Carroll playing the sticks). While I truly love this recording, I know I'll still come back to the YouTube video for the nostalgia.
In addition to Zach releasing "Boys of Faith", many other great artists released new music today including Charles Wesley Godwin, Southall, Wyatt Flores, and Jonathan Peyton. Be sure to check out their new music as well!
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