Is Black a good place to start with Dierks Bentley?

Yes, Black is recommended as a starting point for new Dierks Bentley listeners. A blend of contemporary country and heartfelt storytelling wrapped in polished production and emotive melodies. Released on May 27, 2016, 'Black' is Dierks Bentley's eighth studio album, coming off the commercial success of his previous work, 'Riser.' This album marked a pivotal moment as Bentley embraced a more personal narrative style, reflecting on his marriage and family life while solidifying his status in the modern country music scene.

Black works well if you're into heartfelt reflections on love, for road trips and suitable for casual gatherings.

How many songs are on Black?

Black has 13 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 10 years ago

Black

Dierks Bentley · 2016

48 min · 13 tracks · country music

A blend of contemporary country and heartfelt storytelling wrapped in polished production and emotive melodies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Black Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's themes of love and longing, featuring a haunting melody that complements its introspective lyrics about relationships.
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Somewhere on a Beach — This upbeat anthem contrasts with the album's deeper moments, showcasing Bentley's ability to blend fun, carefree vibes with traditional country sounds.
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Different for Girls — 'Different for Girls' features a unique perspective on heartbreak, illustrating gender differences in emotional responses through vivid storytelling and collaboration with Elle King.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

55 /100

Foothills

Higher than 45% of albums we've rated

The album blends personal storytelling with polished production, making it a solid entry in contemporary country.

What we noticed

The opening track features a slow build with layered instrumentation, setting a reflective tone that persists through the first half of the album.
Several tracks incorporate call-and-response vocals, enhancing the storytelling aspect and creating an engaging dynamic between the lead and backing vocals.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 5/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

heartfelt reflections on love
for road trips
suitable for casual gatherings
sing-along moments with friends

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer experimental soundscapes

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Established Bentley's reputation with commercial success and hit singles.
Themes: marital intimacy· gendered heartbreak
Career context: Released on May 27, 2016, 'Black' is Dierks Bentley's eighth studio album, coming off the commercial success of his previous work, 'Riser.' This album marked a pivotal moment as Bentley embraced a more personal narrative style, reflecting on his marriage and family life while solidifying his status in the modern country music scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Brad Paisley· Kenny Chesney· Jake Owen