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Top 10 Top Picks from October 2005

By Shelly Fabian, About.com

There are new albums coming out all the time. We've picked several of the best country album releases from October 2005

1. Sara Evans - Real Fine Place

Sara goes back to her country roots in the most traditional album since "Three Chords & The Truth." There are still the soaring pop-country ballads, such as the recent No. 1, "A Real Fine Place To Start," to satisfy those that may lean to a more contemporary offering.

2. Clint Black - Drinkin' Songs & Other Logic

This album goes back to the basics of what country music has long been perceived to be about, drinking songs. The title says it all. The CD is about drinking, songs you listen to while drinking, and even some songs written while drinking. Clint has a distinctive voice, and he's a solid performer in his field. This album is no exception, and any traditional country music lover will enjoy it in their collection.

3. Chris Cagle - Anywhere But Here

Chris Cagle's 'Anywhere But Here' is full of songs that most people can relate to. From changing emotions to partying with friends, it's all covered on this album.

4. Little Big Town - The Road To Here

Country vocal quartet Little Big Town has released another album and because of their belief in themselves they haven't let set backs hold them back. They have kept their dreams alive and those set backs they've had in the past have made them stronger they believe. Packed with awesome voices and lots of great songs and not to mention the beautiful sound of the Dobro playing in the background. I read they pour their souls into their music and this album shows those souls and I love it.

5. Cross Canadian Ragweed - Garage

"Garage" feels like Cross Canadian Ragweed has reached and in some ways even surpassed the amazing potential they've displayed since their independent label days.

6. Billy Currington - Doin' Somethin' Right

Releasing his Sophomore album after a successful debut album with the incredible song written of a child witnessing his father stumbling around being drunk, vowing to not make that same mistake "Walk A Little Straighter" (he wrote the chorus at 12.) He shows us that he can write other songs as well by co-writing 4 of the 11 tracks. Billy goes from romantic ballads to some pretty up-tempo countryfied songs.Included, a duet with the legendary Michael McDonald on "She's Got A Way With Me."

7. Gary Allan - Tough All Over

Southern California surfer turned country music singer-song writer. His sixth album, a much needed one for him to heal because of the loss of his wife. There are no love songs on this album, it didn't make sense to have any on this one because of the healing process he was going through. This album comes the closest to where he was at in his life while making it. That is what country music is all about, real life, real situations. This is a great album, one not to be missed.

8. Martina McBride - Timeless

They say that everything that's old is new again. Well that is sure the case with Martina McBride's new CD called 'Timeless.' You get 18 classic country songs from the 60's and 70's that made country music great! This is one that you will definitely want to give a listen to.

9. Tracy Lawrence - Then And Now: The Hits Collection

What song of Tracy's don't I like, there isn't one. This album is chalk full of great hits, 15 of them and a couple of new ones to boot. Tracy's recognizable voice is such music to my ears whenever I hear him sing. I caught a performance of his a while ago and have followed his career since then. I'm so glad he came out with another collection and the hits on this album I'm told were re-recorded. A must have for any supporter out there, a collection to beat all collections.

10. Joe Nichols - III

With his third album release, Joe Nichols continues to keep his strong traditional roots and sing from the heart. This is an excellent album and if this is the direction 'new' country is headed then the future of country music is in excellent shape. There are excellent song choices with something that will fit just about any music mood you are in. From upbeat songs to tear-jerking ballads, it is a terrific addition to any collection.

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