By Jack Major
Staff Writer
Known as an introspective and experimental, yet traditional country band, Zac Brown Band delivers a return-to-form album titled “Welcome Home.” The album’s smooth vocals, instrumentation and strong lyrics combine to deliver a powerful, catchy soundtrack.
Zac Brown Band is an American Country band from Atlanta, Georgia consisting of seven members, with Zac Brown as the main vocalist and guitarist. The band has released five studio albums delivering contemporary country music that features aspects of other genres including Rock and Reggae.
Photos: Zac Brown Band performing live
“Welcome Home” was released by Elektra Records on May 12. It celebrates the band’s return home to Atlanta, Georgia, featuring traditional country production from producer Dave Cobb, with strong guitar, soft drums and a southern drawl.
The smooth vocals with a deep Georgian accent from Zac Brown create a vibrant atmosphere that complements the warm instrumentation. In songs such as “Family Table,” Brown’s supple vocals allow the listener to take in the lyrics without being overwhelmed by a deep southern twang.
The production on the album is handled executively by Cobb. He combines a strong acoustic guitar with piano and traditional drums to create a traditional country sound that complements the happy lyrics and smooth vocals. This creates a summer vibe that is featured in songs such as “Your Majesty” and “Trying to Drive.”
Zac Brown Band’s Official Website
“Welcome Home” revolves around the band returning to its Atlanta, Georgia roots and this is showcased throughout its lyrics. In songs including “Roots” and “Real Thing”, Brown reflects on his childhood and young adult life providing a nostalgic feeling for the listener.
Although the album is an upbeat ode to his home, Brown loses focus throughout the album with songs that do not fit. Although “My Old Man” features a beautiful message to his father, it is a sad song that does not fit the album. The same is true for “All the Best,” which ends the album on a melancholy note.
Video: Zac Brown Band releases his second single “My Old Man” and its accompanying lyric video on April 2 from Atlanta, Georgia. This is also the first lyric video he has released before his album.
Throughout its career, the Zac Brown Band has managed to retain a classic country vibe while blending a contemporary sound, and “Welcome Home” is one of its best albums yet. It is a sentimental album, with a simple yet impactful message about staying true to one’s roots. The excellent vocals, smooth production and meaningful lyrics combine to deliver the band’s best work in years.
The album is available on all major streaming services including Apple Music and Spotify and is available for purchase on iTunes for $9.99.
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