Warren Zeiders debut album “Pretty Little Poison” review

In his debut album, 'Pretty Little Poison,' Warren Zeiders discovers a remedy for a broken heart, solidifying his position as a rising country icon. Originating from Pennsylvania and currently residing in Tennessee, Zeiders personifies authenticity within a genre renowned for its meticulous standards. Across the 14 tracks of 'Pretty Little Poison,' Zeiders channels his soul into crafting a debut album that not only serves as a healing balm for heartbreak but also highlights his innate prowess as a songwriter. Since the release of his first single, "Ride The Lightning," in 2021, the swiftly ascending Zeiders has earned well-deserved acclaim. His journey, starting from an impromptu performance at a local bar to gracing the Grand Ole Opry stage and announcing a headline show at Nashville's esteemed Ryman Auditorium before the release of his debut album, unfolds as a remarkable tale of self-determination seldom witnessed in the music industry.

Characterizing 'Pretty Little Poison' as a genuine reflection of his life and identity, Zeiders underscores, "This album is my story. It's who I am. It's who I've always been. I still put in the work. I still push myself." Despite his recent foray into the country music scene, the 24-year-old artist is no stranger to capturing attention. Zeiders, formerly a lacrosse player for over a decade, shifted to music following multiple concussions that jeopardized his long-term well-being, prompting him to step away from a successful athletic career.

Although a newcomer in the country music world, Zeiders drew upon the discipline acquired as an athlete, seamlessly transferring it to his newfound passion for music. Reflecting on his lacrosse days, he notes, "There were so many tournaments in different cities. So many different hotel rooms. It felt a lot like touring. It taught me about travel, commitment, and hard work at a young age." This unique blend of athleticism and dedication has undoubtedly contributed to Zeiders' rising status as a country star, marked by a profound commitment to his craft.

Choosing the traditional path of self-discovery, Zeiders honed his guitar skills by playing along with records from Chris Stapleton and Luke Combs in the confines of his bedroom. It was a song by the latter that sparked a turning point in his musical journey: during a family dinner outing, a local musician taking requests couldn't perform Combs' "Beautiful Crazy," prompting Zeiders to seize the moment and play it for the room. Recalling the experience, he shares, "I had an out-of-body experience. In that moment, a lightbulb went off, and I thought, This is something I should pursue."

Armed with over 1.4 billion TikTok views, nearly 100 million audio streams, and an initial collection of recordings titled "717 Tapes," Zeiders officially unveiled his debut album, "Pretty Little Poison," on August 18, 2023. The release served as a fully realized declaration of his musical intent, solidifying his place in the industry.

The journey unfolds with the opening track, "Pretty Little Poison," laying the foundation for the entire album. Beginning with a poignant pedal steel and evocative acoustic guitar, the song transforms into a widescreen ballad, injecting a dose of defiance into Zeiders' mix of heartache and despair. With lyrics like, "Yeah, she came with a warning/But I didn't mind/I'll go out on that high every time," the track serves as a preview of the emotional landscape awaiting listeners throughout Zeiders' debut.

In reflecting on the album's themes, Zeiders shares, "A lot of this album is about a girl, and a lot of it is about me." He emphasizes his intention to pay homage to the classic country sound while infusing a modern twist. "At the end of the day," he adds, "I'm just putting my heart on my sleeve and putting myself onstage." The title track acts as a poignant introduction to a collection that promises to blend the timeless essence of classic country with a contemporary flair, all while baring Zeiders' soul for the audience to witness.

The infusion of a modern twist continues with the rock-infused track, "Some Whiskey," where Zeiders transforms the act of drowning sorrows into an anthem of resilience, toasting to the various ways one can consume the spirit ("Some whiskey's good in a shot/Some you sip on the rocks/Some you raise up and drink/Some burn up every memory"). Displaying his fighting spirit, Zeiders returns with "Black And Blue," expressing a preference for the losing side of a parking-lot brawl or being thrown from a bronco, concluding with a decisive farewell: "‘Cause there ain’t nothin’ like the hurt I got from you."

In "Pain Killer," Zeiders offers a vulnerable plea for assistance, revealing himself as a self-proclaimed "broken man" with a heart shattered into a thousand pieces. Contrasting this, "Tell Me Like It Is" emerges as a demand for honesty while pledging unwavering loyalty in return, with Zeiders declaring, "’Cause, honey, this one’s here to stay/So say what you need to say." These tracks showcase the diverse emotional spectrum woven into "Pretty Little Poison," capturing Zeiders' ability to navigate themes of resilience, heartbreak, and authenticity with a contemporary edge.

"I was raised on country, rock, and Christian music," Zeiders reveals, describing this trio as a holy trinity that flows through the 45-minute journey of "Pretty Little Poison." Recognizing that all three genres "helped shape me into who I am," Zeiders emphasizes the importance of total artistic integrity in the creation of his debut album. He states, "I needed this album to touch all of those bases because if I'm going to create something, I have to believe in it."

As the lingering notes of the closing ballad, "Cowboys Ride Away," fade into the distance, Zeiders decisively rejects the misrepresentations of "them old Westerns" that misled him for so long. Rather than pursuing the illusion of a sunset and, metaphorically, chasing after a romantic ideal, the former competitive sportsman turned confessional songwriter firmly plants his flag in his own distinct territory. With resolute determination, Zeiders remains loyal to his authentic self, steadfastly embracing his unique identity and artistic vision. "I'm staying true to who I am," he affirms, encapsulating the culmination of a musical journey that echoes his diverse influences and unwavering commitment to authenticity.

I would give this album 3 out of 4 stars and my personal favorite track is "Pretty Little Poison.”