1. Bruce Springsteen - Magic
2. Arcade Fire - Neon Bible
It was a battle until the end which order these two would go in. Springsteen turns in an album that both recalls his past work and moves it forward. Arcade Fire avoid the sophomore slump completely, with an astounding album.

3. Iron and Wine - The Shepherd's Dog
Another year, another stellar release from Sam Beam. This one is more lush than previous releases, perhaps taking a cue from 2005's collaboration with Calexico.

4. Wilco - Sky Blue Sky
An album that has tremendous rewards for repeat listens. I was rather disappointed at first, but given time I came to love it. Is there any band that changes more album to album?

5. Josh Ritter - The Historical Conquests of Josh Ritter

6. Lori McKenna - Unglamorous

7. Brandi Carlile - The Story

8. Over the Rhine - The Trumpet Child
I remember reading a line from a review of this album, "Over the Rhine makes creative, weird and pretty pop music." That's a perfect description. This one is more jazz and blues influenced than their recent work, and singer Karin Bergquist has the perfect voice to pull it off.

9. Chuck Prophet - Soap and Water
I somehow missed the release of this album in October, only finding it in late December. It quickly found a spot here, and if I gave it more time it might even rise up the list.

10. Roger Clyne & The Peacemakers - No More Beautiful World
A slight disappointment, given how good their last album was, but still enough good songs to land in the ten spot.

Just Missed:
Ben Lee - Ripe
I've been shocked not to see anyone else list this album in their year end lists. I know it took a bit of a critical drubbing, but I've found it to be an enjoyable pop album. Plus What Would Jay-Z Do? is one of the best song titles of the year, even if the song doesn't quite measure up.

The National - Boxer
Bright Eyes - Cassadaga
Steve Earle - Washington Square Serenade
Okkervil River - Stage Names
Jesse Malin - Glitter in the Gutter

Singles I Loved
Spoon - The Underdog
The National Lights - Midwest Town
Grant Lee Phillips - Soft Asylum (No Way Out)
Kelly Willis - Nobody Wants to Go to the Moon Anymore
Jimmy Eat World - Big Casino