Now that the year is winding down, a lot of music publications are releasing their lists of best albums of the year. I thought it would be fun to mention a few favorite CDs that I listened to this year. In my opinion, you can’t go wrong by choosing any of these, so start listening and feed your soul.

Ryan Adams – Gold
Excellent rock & roll and alternative country from the former front man of Whiskeytown.

Bjork – Vespertine
Put this CD on and revel in the icy, snow covered soundscapes that Bjork can paint.

Robert Mirabal – Music From A Painted Cave
Robert Mirabal combines traditional Native American music with rock/pop music and creates a sound that can really touch your spirit.

Movie soundtrack from O Brother Where Art Thou?
This could be the best movie soundtrack ever released.

Jimmy Eat World – Bleed American
Old 97’s – Satellite Rides
These two albums prove that basic American rock and roll is still alive and well. The Jimmy Eat World CD also includes the most beautiful song I’ve heard this year, “Hear You Me.”

R.E.M. – Reveal
A much improved step forward for R.E.M. This is their best album since Automatic for the People.

Res – How I Do
Quite a few female R & B singers released some good albums this year, this one is my favorite.