Brain’s Five Favorite Country Albums Of 2017

I listen to a lot of music. It's what I do for a living. It's also what I do in my spare time. There were many great country albums released in 2017. But I've narrowed my list down to my five favorites. These albums didn't necessarily top the charts, but they definitely caught my ear this year. So here we go!

5. The Breaker - Little Big Town - What else can you say about Little Big Town? The harmonies are amazing and this album is no different. From the Taylor Swift penned 'Better Man' to the haunting 'When Someone Stops Loving You' this album never lets up.

4. What Makes You Country - Luke Bryan - I'll admit it. I had Luke Bryan fatigue. But this album restores my faith in country's top draw. From the title track to other sure-fire radio hits like 'Out of Nowhere Girl' and 'Sunrise, Sunburn, Sunset' this album will be all over the radio in 2018 too.

3. On The Rocks - Midland - Who says traditional sounding country music is dead? Midland has brought it back. From their retro look to their retro sound, this was one of the most surprising albums of the year. Yes, you've heard 'Drinking Problem' a million times, but also check out 'This Old Heart', 'Electric Rodeo' and their current hit 'Make A Little'. 

2. Life Changes - Thomas Rhett - The title says it all. This is Thomas Rhett's coming of age album. His marriage. A growing family. It's all reflected in the music. The title track talks about it all. Other strong tracks include 'Marry Me', 'Sixteen', and 'Grave'. This album has been on repeat for most of the year.

1. The Nashville Sound - Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit - My favorite country album of the year is one you might not have even heard of. Jason Isbell is an Americana star. He was a member of The Drive-By Truckers and his solo career includes two Grammy's. If you love country, rock, folk, and amazing songwriting then look no further. 'If We Were Vampires' is song of the year material. 'White Man's World' talks of social injustice. 'Hope the High Road' talks about, well, hope in a crappy world. Isbell plays the Paramount in January. I'll see you at the show. You won't regret it.