I had the same problem with my year end rankings as always. There were at least 35 albums worthy of the top 25. As you can see that math only works for congressmen and poker hustlers. I focused the top 25 on Americana and Roots music. To have included Indie and Alternative would have been impossible. I apologize in advance for leaving out any of your favorites.
THE TOP 5
Jason Isbell & the 400 Unit – Weathervanes
My Spotify 2023 recap let me know on this one. This is as good as any record Jason has done with the 400 Unit. Many songs bring Rock to the forefront. All songs have lyrics that prove Jason Isbell is among the top songwriters in the business.
Drayton Farley = Twenty on High
Farley’s growing fame allowed him to move from DIY recording to a full band. It was not just any band. He was backed by The 400 Unit, and the album was produced by The 400 Unit’s Sadler Vaden. The album gives him a broader palate to show off his top notch songwriting talents.
Turnpike Troubadours – A Cat in the Rain
The Troubadours have been on extended hiatus much to the chagrin of their fans. This may have been the most eagerly anticipated return album of the year. The boys did not disappoint. They are back refreshed and have regained their energy. This album would rank with any in their catalogue.
Margo Price – Strays
The product of a psychadelic vacation to the desert. What a trip it is (pun intended). The album moves from Rock to Country to 60’s Psychedelia seamlessly. However don’t think Price lost any of her swagger on this project. She will always have that.
Slaid Cleaves – Together Through the Dark
Cleaves is one of the most underrated songwriters in the industry today. This album is among his best and that is saying a lot. At times it is emotional and it is a perfect example of Cleaves poignant lyrics. No one can tell a story and paint a picture better.
THE REST OF THE TOP 25
Charles Wesley Godwin – Family Ties
Zach Bryan – Zach Bryan
Lucero – Should’ve Learned by Now
Eilen Jewel – Get Behind the Wheel
Parker Milsap – Wilderness Within You
Lukas Nelson & Promises of the Real – Sticks and Stones
Brent Cobb – Southern Star
Allison Russell – The Returner
The Shootouts – Stampede
Pony Bradshaw – North Georgia Rambler
Gabe Lee – Drink the River
Wilco – Cousin
Daniel Donato – Cosmic Country
Band of Heathens – Simple Things
Nickel Creek – Celebrants
Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives – Altitude
Molly Tuttle – City of Gold
Jess Williamson – Time Ain’t Accidental
The Wood Brothers – Heart is the Hero
Jaimee Harris – Boomerang Town
About the author: Chip and his family live in Birmingham, AL. Roll Tide!