Scott Sexton's Top 10 Country Albums of 2008

Jamey Johnson's album That Lonesome Song takes the number one spot for my favorite albums of 2008. This record contains situations that one man, who had hit "rock bottom" has dealt with in his life. Each song leaves you with a lost feeling, yet a certainty that country music is still alive and well. Every song from "In Color" to "High Cost Of Living" offers an inside look into a soul that was truly lost. This record is solid and deserves to win every award that the industry offers.
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Rhonda Vincent proved this year that she is still the "Queen of Bluegrass" as she released her powerful record Good Thing Going. Every song gives an inside look into the genre that Rhonda has helped make so popular. "I'm Leaving" paints the listener a picture of an unhappy woman who is not putting up with a failing relationship anymore. Rhonda also teamed up with Keith Urban on "The Water Is Water." These are only two songs that make up this fantastic record, but every track is amazing.
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This record was a collaboration, which featured Marty Stuart behind the controls as a producer and Kathy Mattea behind the microphone singing the music that she was born to sing. It is an awesome tribute to coal miners that goes deep into their lives, in order to show the world just how important they are to everyday America. Every song makes this record great, but the one that stands out among them all is "L&N Don't Stop Here Anymore." Coal is country, but it is also proven history.
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Nothing in history has ever been so important to country music as the latest release from the Hank Williams Estate. This three disc set contains all unreleased material that was recorded live for WSM over fifty years ago. Until now, these recordings were impossible to buy because they were tied up in a court battle. Each disc is amazing and makes you feel like you were in the studio when Hank was originally singing them. There are a few of his big hits included, but they are different than the final product that fans are used to from his Greatest Hits albums.
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Lee Ann Womack's voice is so pure, so country, and so beautiful, it was impossible to not include this album somewhere in my Top 10. Her release of Call Me Crazy displayed a whole new side and persona than anything else she has ever released. From the second "Last Call" was released, it was clear this album would be special, but once it was in the CD player, it surpassed every expectation. "I bet you're in a bar, listenin' to a cheatin' song" pushed this record into my Top 5.
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There isn't anyone in country music that has grabbed my attention like Little Big Town. They are four of the most talented people ever heard, yet they still remain down to earth. "Good Lord Willing" will give the listener an interesting look into the life of someone who lives on the edge. Every song on this record is worthy of being mentioned, but "Fine Line," "Life In A Northern Town," and "I'm With The Band" made this record so great. This was a re-release which includes four extra songs that were not available on the original release. Great harmonies are hard to find, but these guys hit their mark.
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Lady Antebellum is one of the most amazing new groups to come out in country music in years.Their self-titled debut album showcased some of the best harmonies in the music industry. They broke down every barrier and introduced the world to their unique sound by releasing "Lookin' For A Good Time" and their smash hit "Love Don't Live Here Anymore." They proved to the world that it was OK to have a one night stand and that you don't have to always let your ex back into your life. They may be new, but their future is wide open.
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Although I was a little skeptical at first when I found out that Hootie & The Blowfish lead singer, Darius Rucker was releasing a country album, I quickly backed down. With singles like "Don't Think I Don't Think About It" and "It Won't Be Like This For Long," Darius has everything it takes to be the next big thing in country music. Other tracks that make Learn To Live so amazing is "All I Want," "Learn To Live," and "History In The Making." This is a fantastic album.
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Sugarland released one of the most anticipated records ever in 2008. The "Deluxe Fan Edition" consisted of twelve songs, and four bonus tunes. From the second "All I Want To Do" started until the end of "Come On Get Higher," the listener is entertained with songs that involve everything that life has to offer. Jake Owen and Little Big Town joined forces with Sugarland for "Life In A Northern Town." Bill Anderson also had a hand in writing one of my favorite songs on the record called "Joey."
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When you are a member of one of the most famous families in country music, the pressure has got to be rough when it comes to creating an album that is full of quality material. Carlene Carter may have had her "rough" times, but as soon as I heard Stronger, it was clear that she had learned from her mistakes. "Judgement Day" displayed an interesting outlook on life, and that in the end there is only one judge. "The Bitter End" and "Why Be Blue" showcased her writing abilities, but the title track turned out to be the album's gem.
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