The year is at an end and that means it’s time for me to list my favorite CDs of 2003.

Ryan Adams – Love Is Hell
The best non-album released this year. See my posting from December 14th for details.

Dido – Life For Rent
Dido has such a beautiful voice. Her captivating melodies and heartfelt lyrics fit that voice perfectly. I could develop a bit of a crush on Dido listening to this.

Kathleen Edwards – Failer
You could put Kathleen Edwards music in the same category as Lucinda Williams: exceptional songwriting with music in an alt-country style.

Ben Harper – Diamonds On The Inside
The interesting thing about this CD is the variety of music Ben Harper includes on it: reggae, blues, rock, funk, gospel and some African chant with Ladysmith Black Mambazo. Even more interesting is the way all of the music fits together as a cohesive collection.

Van Morrison – What’s Wrong With This Picture?
Another outstanding release from a veteran showman whose music just keeps getting better. This album features Van in the way I like him best — in a jazz and blues mode.

The Stills – Logic Will Break Your Heart
This CD has a retro new wave feel to it, with a guitar-synth sound and angst driven voices reminiscent of The Cure or The Church. My favorite debut by a new band this year.

The Harder They Come – Original Soundtrack Recording (Deluxe Edition)
Featuring Jimmy Cliff and a who’s who of reggae artists from the late 60’s and early 70’s, this is the best reissue of 2003. Definitely my favorite movie soundtrack and possibly my favorite reggae album of all time. This newly released, deluxe edition features a second disc of classic reggae songs.