Choosing 50 albums from a single year should not be excruciatingly painful, but it is. I know I’ll have regrets as soon as this list goes live. Thanks to Woody for providing commentary and some healthy debate as we’ve waded our way through the music of 2008. Let’s get started, shall we?
41. The Steeldrivers – Self Titled
I already know I’ll regret not posting this higher on the list. The Steeldrivers inject soul and blues into their bluegrass sound and the album continues to grow on me.
The Steeldrivers – If It Hadn’t Been For Love
42. The Tallest Man On Earth – Shallow Grave
The Tallest Man on Earth was the most recent addition to our list. I picked Shallow Grave up on eMusic two weeks ago and the finger-picking and incredible songwriting won me over with ease. A great folk album.
The Tallest Man On Earth – I Won’t Be Found
The Tallest Man On Earth – Into The Stream
The Tallest Man On Earth – Pistol Dreams
43. Two Cow Garage – Speaking In Cursive (our review)
The one constant rumbling of rock and roll hope in Columbus, Ohio’s underbelly is the whiskey soaked sound of Two Cow Garage.
Two Cow Garage – Your Humble Narrator
44. She and Him – Volume One
Volume One greatly exceeded our expectations after hearing that actress, Zooey Deschanel, and musician, M. Ward, were collaborating. Hopefully Volume Two features M. Ward more prominently on vocals. No track for this one, so here’s a video…
She and Him – “Why Do You Let Me Stay Here?” Video
45. Buffalo Killers – Let It Ride (our review)
The time Cinci’s Buffalo Killers spent touring with the Crowes did them good. Let It Ride is a big step forward from their debut without sacrificing their stoner rock sound.
Buffalo Killers – If I get Myself Anywhere
46. Vampire Weekend
Overhyped – yes, Overexposed – yes. An enjoyable listen nonetheless and one of the catchiest pop albums of the year.
Vampire Weekend – Oxford Comma
47. Marah – Angels of Destruction (our review)
Another solid effort for one of America’s most under-appreciated rock and roll bands, straight out of Philly.
48. Mason Proper – Olly Oxen Free (our review)
Olly Oxen Free opens with an amazing trifecta of songs. They just brought their indie pop sound into our studio for a live session that we’ll have up soon.
49. Catfish Haven – Devastator (our review)
Otis Redding inspired; this bluesy, soulful album was a pleasant surprise this year.
50. Old Crow Medicine Show – Tennessee Pusher
Lots of people worried about rock producer, Don Was, producing a bluegrass album. It’s not as good as OCMS’s Big Iron World, but still good enough to make the list.
