1. Justin Townes Earle
The Good Life

I really didn’t want to like this guy. Children of established artists always weird me out (his dad is Steve Earle). But this album was played many times last summer. It’s got a great Hank Williams (Sr.) vibe. Too bad that a Wisconsin winter storm kept us from seeing him up the road a few weeks ago.

2. The Felice Brothers
Tonight at the Arizona

I wish more people would have discovered this band. Some really good songs and stories here, including the lines “I saw a man hit my mom one time, really. I hurt him so damn bad I had to hide in Jersey”.

3. Bon Iver
For Emma, Forever Ago

Wisconsin musician gets dumped by girlfriend. Moves to his family’s cabin in the northwoods for the winter. Chops wood and writes songs. Emerges with a record that is perfect for those endless winter days that keep you locked inside.

4. Low Anthem
Oh my god Charlie Darwin

This record almost sounds like 2 different bands, one is trying to be an acoustic Radiohead trio, and the other is channeling Tom Waits. Both are outstanding.

5. Delta Spirit
Ode to Sunshine

The song “Trashcan” has played many times on very loud speakers in my office this fall. In fact, I think I will go listen to it again right now.

6. The Avett Bros
The Gleam II (EP)

An EP from Seth and Scott is not enough, I want a full album. But all I need is a song like “Murdered In The City” to get me through the year. I hear they are working on a full-length for next year with Rick Rubin (yay!)

7. Fleet Foxes
The Sun Giant (EP)

If I could combine this EP and their full-length record into one, and then pick my own tracklisting, I’d be even happier. But as a whole the EP received more airplay in my house.

8. Drive-By Truckers
Brighter Than Creation’s Dark

I’m still waiting for Neil Young to write a song for them (like he did with “Powderfinger” for Ronnie Van Zandt). But until then, another solid “Southern Rock” album from DBT. There are 3 solid songwriters on this album, but Cooley writes the best ones.

9. Cory Chisel & The Wandering Sons
The Cabin Ghosts (EP)

I probably saw Cory & crew live more than any other band this year, but that’s because Cory can write a damn good song. Here’s hoping that next year is as good to him as this year has been.