Linktree: https://linktr.ee/AnalyticJoin The Normandy For Additional Bonus Audio And Visual Content For All Things Nme+! Join Here: https://ow.ly/msoH50WCu0K In this segment of Notorious Mass Effect, Analytic Dreamz offers a focused, data-driven breakdown of Zach Bryan’s introspective album track “Plastic Cigarette” from his new project With Heaven On Top, released January 9–10, 2026, via Warner Records / Belting Bronco Records.Born 1996 in Oologah, Oklahoma, Zach Bryan rose from raw, self-uploaded songs during his 7–8 years in the U.S. Navy (honorable discharge 2021) to major-label success with American Heartbreak (2022, No. 1 Top Country Albums), the self-titled Zach Bryan (2023), and a Grammy win for “I Remember Everything” (with Kacey Musgraves). His signature style—introspective, emotionally raw Americana, folk, outlaw country—prioritizes authenticity over polish.“Plastic Cigarette” (track 15) debuted live in Dublin, Ireland (summer 2025) and quickly became a fan favorite. The understated, reflective song explores emotional longing, regret, artificial coping mechanisms, and the metaphor of a “plastic cigarette” as a substitute for genuine connection. Critics praise its use of space, warmth, minimalism, and atmospheric restraint over hook-driven structure (noted by Pitchfork, Stereogum, Holler.country, StayFreeRadioIP).As a non-lead single, it lacks immediate chart entries (no Hot 100, Hot Country Songs, or UK Singles peaks as of January 13, 2026), but benefits from album-wide streaming surges, fan playlist placement (~1.7K saves on one reported list), strong Reddit/social engagement, and organic discovery. No significant radio push or media syncs yet.Bryan reinforces his unfiltered ethos with a full acoustic version of With Heaven On Top—recorded solo, one-take per song, no overdubs—dropping just three days post-album to preempt overproduction critiques. The project was recorded across three Oklahoma houses in winter, emphasizing live takes, minimal polish, emotional immediacy, and collaboration with close friends as a return to spiritual, less commercial roots.Analytic Dreamz examines how “Plastic Cigarette” aligns with Bryan’s pattern: slow-burn traction for non-singles, growth via live teases, fan-driven long-tail streaming, and tour amplification. The upcoming With Heaven On Tour (March–October 2026) hits stadiums across the U.S. (Raymond James, Bank of America, Gillette, Empower Field, multiple nights at Tottenham Hotspur), UK (Anfield), Ireland, and Europe (Spain, Germany, Norway, Denmark, Netherlands), setting the stage for sustained catalog and album momentum.Join Analytic Dreamz for this no-fluff analysis of a deeply resonant, authenticity-first track poised for organic growth in 2026. Stream “Plastic Cigarette” and With Heaven On Top now—stay locked in for more Notorious Mass Effect.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/analytic-dreamz-notorious-mass-effect/donationsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy