Each year, country music puts out some outstanding albums. Your AboutCountry Guide Jolene Downs gives us her choices for the Top 10 Albums for 2006.
This is Ronnie's first studio album of country music in over a decade and there is no question that he is still on top of his game. Each and every song on this album could stand alone as a single release. His voice has remained virtually unchanged since he hit the airwaves in the early 70's, and it is easy to see why he has racked up 40 #1 Hits over the years. It is wonderful having new Milsap in the stereo again!
Nashville Rebel is an amazing collection of Waylon Jennings' material. It spans his entire career and provides hours of listening enjoyment. It brings back memories of the outlaw movement and the great music it inspired. This is a must have for anyone who loves the traditional country music.
It may be a standard Christmas album, practically a requirement for nearly every recording artist in existence. Still, Paisley manages his first holiday recording with his usual style and humor, and always (always!) Country. This has quickly become my favorite Christmas CD in my collection!
One word description for this CD? Amazing! Josh Turner took the country music field by storm with his release of
"Long Black Train." People wondered if such a strong start might also be a death sentence. How can you possibly top that entrance? Well, he has done it. This album is strong all the way through; there are no weak links here.
This is one of the most reflective Gospel albums I’ve heard in a long while. Alan just seemed to pick the perfect songs and use the perfect arrangements for this project. While it may not be to everyone’s taste, I think this is an incredibly well done album. What better emotional background than a project made with love for a mother?
When it comes to tribute albums, this one is a diamond just waiting to be discovered. Barbara Mandrell was honored when she heard that several artists were interested in recording her songs in a tribute album. The result is a great trip down memory lane and will be an enjoyed addition to any collection. This tribute album is a testament to the influence she had on more than one generation of artists and the love they all share for her and her music.
This is Atkins' Sophomore album with Curb Records and he has a real winner on his hands. The songs were all well chosen to fit his singing style and his personality. There is plenty of steel guitar and lots of emotion. It is the perfect combination for an excellent country album. I enjoy pulling this one out frequently to give it a listen.
Craig Morgan just keeps getting better and better. With his fourth album, he continues the hard hitting lyrics that are mixed liberally with his humorous side for a well balanced musical meal. I think Morgan is definitely here to stay.
George Jones is a true living legend and he leads off this tribute album personally singing a new song, "God's Country." His voice is starting to show his age, but it is still undeniably George Jones. The contributing artists did a great job covering Jones' songs and the special DVD that comes with it has some great behind the scenes footage that is destined to become a collector's item.
Once in awhile I hear music from an independent artist that just makes me sit up and go "Wow!" Hayley Oliver is just such an artist. Her voice is amazing, and I would not be surprised to see her go far if she continues on her chosen path. Anyone who loves traditional country music would absolutely love this CD and play it often. She is hard at work on a CD of original music and I'm very much looking forward to it.
