Rising country-rock star Zach Bryan has just released the ultimate collaboration just in time for fall.
The 27-year-old singer-songwriter released a five-song EP Guys of faith (via Warner Records) on Friday, just weeks after dropping his major label debut album American Heartbreak. On the title track, he teamed up with fellow indie folk star Bono Iver (42) for the first time.
An autumnal American song, the two singers’ heartfelt voices stretch over strings, piano and poignant percussion as they dig into their nostalgia for old friends and relationships. Since both the “Dawns” singer and “Hey, Ma” artist (whose real name is Justin Vernon) are known for their powerful lyrics, it’s the kind of song that will make you think about your own friends who are “stuck around” and also disappeared.
Bon Iver; Zach Bryan.
WireImage; Erika Goldring/WireImage
Timeline of Zach Bryan and Brianna Chickenfry’s relationship
“But you stayed when I fell / And I’ll owe you all my days / Those boys of faith / Those boys of faith,” the two sing together as the song picks up speed.
In the chorus, they sing: “High tide has been risin’ up / I’ve been gettin’ with some boys I used to know / We’re tryin’ to up our pockets up / This year has just movin’ f- –slow.”
Brianna Chickenfry Slams Haters Criticizing Her Romance With Zach Bryan: ‘I’m Eating It Up’ (Exclusive)
Bryan also collaborated with another breakthrough American talent on the EP: Noah Kahan. Cult artists worked together on the song “Sarah’s Place”.
Although “Boys of Faith” is the Oklahoma artist’s first time working with Bon Iver, he has been a known fan of the Grammy winner for years. Back in 2016, he shared a cover of the Wisconsin singer’s hit song “Skinny Love” and has tweeted several times about how much he loves his music.
In 2017, he called Bon Iver’s “Heavenly Father” “one of the most beautiful songs ever made” with post on X (formerly known as Twitter). He also sang the song “Kule”, writing“I wish I had thought of that.”
:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():focal(672x334:674x336)/zach-bryan-bon-iver-collab-092223-01-026f3dd5c23145c59b379a6285d1e990.jpg)
Zach Bryan ‘Boys of Faith’ EP.
Courtesy of Warner Records
Zach Bryan Announces The Quittin’ Time 2024 Tour With Sheryl Crow, Turnpike Troubadours & More
The “Something in the Orange” singer started teasing Guys of faith EP, which features a cover photo from his family archives, on Monday. He reviewed the songs on Instagram and wrote about the writing process in the description.
He shared, “I locked myself in the studio all week, wrote in a notebook, walked around the city with people I love, then went camping, I felt rested and hopeful, grateful to be breathing no matter the day, just grateful. ”
“thank you @boniver and @noahkahanmusic,” the country music star added. “those guys of faith”
Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE’s free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best PEOPLE has to offer, from juicy celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.
Guys of faith followed by the Aug. 25 release of Bryan’s acclaimed third album and major label debut American Heartbreak. The record went to No. 1 on the Billboard 200, as well as No. 1 on the Country, Rock & Alternative, Americana/Folk, and Rock album charts.
His song from the album “I Remember Everything” with Kacey Musgraves simultaneously reached number 1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Earlier this year, he continued his ascent into the indie world by working on the single “Dawn” with indie pop star Maggie Rogers.
Categories: Trends
Source: HIS Education