Released: 2023
Features: Bon Iver
At its heart, “Boys Of Faith” by Zach Bryan, featuring Bon Iver, is a soul-stirring ode to the power of enduring friendship, the passage of time, and the shared experiences that bond people together. It’s a narrative that weaves the tales of struggles with the beauty of holding on to belief amidst adversity. The song captures the essence of coming of age, the highs and lows of chasing dreams, and the profound impact of faith and loyalty among close friends.
The lyrics kick off with a sense of urgency and a yearning for progress, as referenced by the “High tide, it’s been rising up” metaphor, conveying both a literal and figurative rise in challenges and opportunities. Zach Bryan reminisces about reuniting with old acquaintances, trying to make ends meet in a year that’s been especially tough, moving “fucking slow.” The mention of Pineville and the cold sets a vivid scene of reunion, tinged with the realization of aging and the fleeting nature of time. Yet, amidst this, there’s a glimmer of hope and a sense of purpose, a belief that even those who are often overlooked or destined to fade away can find meaning and leave a lasting impact.
The chorus, with its repetitive homage to “Them boys of faith,” serves as a powerful anthem to loyalty and the unseen strength found in shared belief. It emphasizes how genuine connections and unwavering support can uplift individuals during their lowest points, suggesting that faith among friends is a lifeline, a source of never-ending support.
Moving forward, the narrative takes us on a journey through the characters’ experiences—from capturing simple moments in Kentucky under a favorable light, to achieving dreams as grand as making it onto a billboard in New York. These achievements, big or small, are shared and celebrated within this circle of friends, highlighting the profound bond that connects them. Despite the different paths they’ve taken or the success they’ve achieved, at the core, they remain “Them boys of faith.”
The repetition of the verse towards the song’s end reinforces the cyclical nature of life and the constant struggle to rise above challenges. It illustrates that no matter how much time passes or how high the tide rises, the essence of these relationships and the faith that binds them remains unshaken. The song, therefore, is not just a tribute to friendship but a testament to resilience and the belief that together, we can weather any storm and emerge stronger.
In “Boys Of Faith,” Zach Bryan and Bon Iver have crafted a deeply resonant narrative that speaks to the heart of anyone who has found strength in friendship and hope in dark times. It’s a reminder that in the journey of life, those moments of shared faith and unwavering support are what truly define us.
