Zach Bryan is one of the artists at the forefront of the craze for modern country and folk music that’s been taking over recently, so this release has been hugely anticipated. Inspired by characters that can be found in watering holes across the states - a lyrical concept that I love - The Great American Bar Scene offers emotionally-charged storytelling, an impressive host of collaborators (including Bruce Springsteen and John Mayer) and a more refined approach to production than its predecessors. Though this allows for a more polished sound, my favourite moments of this album are when Bryan’s raw, folky roots still manage to peek out from beneath all this added glamour. LT

Out now on Warner