Entirely self-produced (except for the song "Oklahoman Son" produced by Eddie Spear), it features guest appearances by the War and Treaty, Sierra Ferrell, Kacey Musgraves, and the Lumineers.

[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".

[8] The 15-track project sees Bryan mashing "elements of indie rock and folk into his unique take" of country music.

[10] 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".

[14] 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.

[19] 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.