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Best Country Albums - First Half of 2008

By Shelly Fabian, About.com

I can hardly believe that 2008 is just about half over already. Coming up on the halfway point in another week, with over 65 albums reviewed, I've come up with my personal Top 10 favorites from the first half of the year. If you haven't checked these out yet, I hope you'll read our reviews, and give them a try.

10. Jewel - Perfectly Clear

Jewel - Perfectly ClearValory
Jennifer says: Perfectly Clear is Jewel's first attempt at making a country music album after many years of being marketed as pop/folk. Unlike many artists dipping their toes in the country music genre, she has really immersed herself in the whole history and feeling behind the country artists from the past as well as today's stars. Her roots stem from growing up living with her father and spending time on his ranch. After her time hosting Nashville Star last year, it was inevitable a Nashville-based album would be released, and I'm glad it was. You will be too once you give it a try.
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9. Dolly Parton - Backwoods Barbie

Dolly Parton - Backwoods BarbieDolly Records
Jolene says: What an incredible album! But that is no surprise considering it is from Dolly Parton. Her talent is undeniable and her voice is amazing. Debuting at No. 2 on the Billboard country charts and No. 17 overall, this album is an absolute must have for any Dolly fan. Anyone who appreciates country music will enjoy this album in their collection.
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8. Montgomery Gentry - Back When I Knew It All

Montgomery Gentry - Back When I Knew It AllColumbia Nashville
Jennifer says: If you are a fan of high octane, full throttle Country Music you should have a listen to Back When I Knew It All. This album marks the return to that rockin' Montgomery Gentry music that was found on earlier albums and if it doesn't get you moving then you're not listening with the right set of ears. Compare Prices

7. James Otto - Sunset Man

James Otto - Sunset ManWarner Nashville
Scott says: As a member of the Muzik Mafia, James Otto has served his time and finally has his chance to shine. He brings a fresh new sound to country music. He generates a mixture of classic rock and modern country that attracts fans from all spectrums. Even if you've never heard of James Otto, you need to give him a chance. People will be gathering from all over the globe after hearing Sunset Man.
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6. Chuck Wicks - Starting Now

Chuck Wicks - Starting NowSony BMG
Scott says: There is a refreshing new voice in country music that everyone will be hearing a lot of. Chuck Wicks has busted down the doors and burned up the charts with "Stealing Cinderella," but now everyone can own his full length debut album Starting Over. Bringing back the traditional sound of country music, Chuck has proven that he can play with the best that country has to offer.
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5. Ashton Shepherd - Sounds So Good

Ashton Shepherd - Sounds So GoodMercury Nashville
Jennifer says: If traditional country is your style, then you really must check out Sounds So Good. You'll enjoy it from start to finish. Famous producer Buddy Cannon gave the tracks his golden touch and Ashton did a perfect job laying down the vocals and writing or co-writing all but one song on the album. It really is a fantastic release.
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4. Anne Murray - Duets: Friends & Legends

Anne Murray - Duets, Friends and LegendsMannhattan Records
Scott says: Anne Murray's career is something most artists dream about. She has won awards, broke down barriers and graciously blessed the world with her voice for nearly forty years. Her albums always consisted of quality music that appealed to a variety of listeners. Anne's latest album is a collection of hits that have been recorded as unbelievable duets. Although this album may not be full of new material, you have never heard these songs recorded like this.
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3. Alan Jackson - Good Time

Alan Jackson - Good TimeArista Nashville
Scott says: Alan Jackson has gone above and beyond by recording an album full of great country music. After winning just about every award that a male vocalist can earn, Alan's fans have come to expect nothing but the best from this Grand Ole Opry star. If you've been waiting for some new material, your wait is over! Now that his new album is available, you can expect to hear the classic country sound that he's known for.
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2. Lady Antebellum - Lady Antebellum

Lady Antebellum - Lady AntebellumCapitol Nashville
Scott says: There is a new group in Nashville that everyone needs to keep an eye on. Their name is Lady Antebellum and their self-titled debut album has been released by Capitol Records. If you love your country rockin', with a perfect blend of soul, you'll love the sound of this awesome trio. The group consists of Charles Kelly, Hillary Scott and Dave Haywood. Prepare yourself for something awesome.
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1. George Strait - Troubadour

George Strait - TroubadourMCA Nashville
Jolene says: George Strait does it again. His music has a timeless feel to it and it becomes an immediate classic. His voice has a quality that never goes out of style and he holds the record for the most number one hits by a solo artist. This album is sure to add to the record. An absolute must have for any country music fan.
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