I spent the majority of my life, up until I was probably 16, with an avid hatred for country music. Convinced it only included controversial lyrics about alcohol and women, I avoided it at all costs, with my distaste only fueled by the surrounding enjoyers of the genre in my farm town. This changed when my best friend, someone who listens nearly exclusively to country, introduced me to Zach Bryan, claiming that his music resembled a “country Noah Kahan.” Upon discovering Zach Bryan, my view of country music was completely reshaped. His music felt raw and honest, and by the time his latest album, With Heaven on Top, was released, I listened as a fan with anticipation and excitement.
With Heaven on Top’s release was met with a fair amount of controversial opinions. Many people critiqued how it sounded the same as all of his other music. I don’t disagree that Zach Bryan has a very recognizable style and sound, but I wouldn’t think of this as a bad thing. Bryan’s music might not be as experimental as other artists like Taylor Swift, who has dabbled in a wide variety of genres. But to make up for it, his music is consistent and has a signature feel – there’s nothing wrong with sticking to a style that fits an artist the most. Furthermore, when diving in to With Heaven on Top, I found depth and specific reasons to love each song.
Zach Bryan has been causing buzz online with a song on With Heaven on Top, “Bad News.” The lyrics of “Bad News” are bold and politically charged, targeting recent ICE raids and pushing for unity. I admire Bryan’s ability to speak out on his beliefs, especially as a country artist, where many people tend to have opposing views. Other songs gaining traction on social media platforms include “Skin” and “Madeline.”
Some of my personal favorites on this new album are more emotional, quiet and vulnerable. “Drowning” speaks on mental health, while “DeAnn’s Denim” references moments of his mother who passed away in 2016. My favorite at the moment is “Rivers and Creeks,” reflecting on the mellow and calm comfort of home. I love that I can count on Zach Bryan’s mellow music to always be available to me, but I also enjoy the songs that branch out and get more loud, like “Appetite.”
When it comes down to it, Zach Bryan has songs with deep meaning and variety. Despite criticism of sounding repetitive, many listeners lean into the consistency and comfort his music provides. Zach Bryan’s music was the first time I realized country music can have deep meaning, and he has proved it once again through With Heaven on Top. This album continues Bryan’s music in a genuine and grounding way that I’ll continue to play.
