Take a few minutes to look through past StSL posts, and it will quickly become obvious that I'm a huge fan of The Civil Wars. In their first year together, John Paul White and Joy Williams have already turned out an impressive collection of brilliant songs. This is E.P., short though it may be, is a great representation and an exciting taste of what the future holds for The Civil Wars. Favorite Song: Poison & Wine
Call him controversial if you must, but you can't deny one simple truth about Derek Webb: he is a true artist. Stockholm Syndrome was a significant departure musically, yet it maintained the signature Webb style. That's hard a line to walk and a big achievement. There's never anything held back in Derek's ever-progressing songwriting, and that's what I love most about this album. Favorite Song: Heaven
As I type this I'm watching a TV show with Tyrone playing in the background. No joke! I've known Tyrone for a long time and watching him grow and become more and more successful has been awesome. Remain is easily his best album to date and the doors just keep on opening. Favorite Song: In Between The Lines
I had a chance to see The Swell Season live a couple months ago, and it was easily one of the best shows ever. Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova are so natural and have such an obvious love of music. Strict Joy is a perfect expression of that, and a collection of simply great songs. Favorite Song: Low Rising
Chrome is probably the best representation yet of the vulnerability in Eric's songwriting. That kind of honesty lends itself to great music and also made for one of my favorite interviews of the year. Favorite Song: I Had To Tell You
This double E.P. was pretty much all that came out of my iPod for quite some time. Joy is both a great songwriter and one of the sweetest voices you'll ever hear. Favorite Song: Golden Thread
Phil has become a big favorite of mine over the past few years, and Heaven & Earth is another collection of great songs. The passion and control in his voice is just undeniably impressive. Favorite Song: Heaven Song
Sandra McCracken playing her beautifully intimate songs in the context of a house show (her own house, no less) is just a perfect fit. I'm a fan of live albums, and this one still stands out as one of the very best. Favorite Song: The Tie That Binds
I love Brandi's gritty yet delicate americana style, and Giving Up The Ghost keeps the trend going perfectly. Favorite Song: Dreams
This album is so addictive and so catchy. Everyone and their mother has referred to Ingrid as quirky, but it really is an accurate description. She has both depth and whimsy, and it makes for songs that you're virtually always in the mood for. Favorite Song: The Chain
Well, there you have it. 2009 definitely brought the music. What were your favorites? Make comment and let us know!
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