The best Alternative Country albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 alternative country — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — alternative country
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Willie Nelson
Django & Jimmie
A heartfelt blend of traditional country sounds enriched by storytelling that reflects on legacy and loss.
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Willie Nelson
My Way
A smooth, reflective collection of classic standards delivered with Willie Nelson's signature warmth and understated vocal style.
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Emmylou Harris
Hard Bargain
A reflective tapestry of Americana woven with poignant storytelling, gentle melodies, and Emmylou Harris's signature emotive vocals.
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Calexico
The Thread That Keeps Us
A rich tapestry of sound blending haunting melodies with rhythmic folk influences and a touch of desert rock.
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Calexico
Edge of the Sun
A vibrant tapestry of sounds blending indie folk, Mexican rhythms, and cinematic melodies that evoke sun-soaked landscapes.
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The Avett Brothers
Closer Than Together
A heartfelt blend of folk-rock melodies and introspective lyrics, anchored by rich harmonies and acoustic instrumentation.
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The Avett Brothers
Magpie and the Dandelion
A warm blend of folk and bluegrass, infused with introspective lyrics and rich harmonies that evoke a sense of longing.
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Supersuckers
Get the Hell
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Supersuckers
Holdin' the Bag
A raucous blend of honky-tonk and punk energy, infused with sharp wit and gritty realism.
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Okkervil River
Golden Opportunities 2
A collection of reflective, acoustic-driven songs that navigate themes of longing and introspection with a blend of folk and country influences.
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Okkervil River
Away
A contemplative and expansive journey through alternative country, blending lush instrumentation with introspective lyrics.
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Lucinda Williams
The Ghosts of Highway 20
A haunting exploration of loss and memory, infused with Southern storytelling and Williams' signature raw vocals.
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Lucinda Williams
Vanished Gardens
A haunting blend of folk and blues that intertwines introspective lyrics with expansive, atmospheric instrumentation.
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Randy Newman
Dark Matter
A satirical blend of sharp wit and melancholic melodies that navigates contemporary anxieties with Newman’s signature storytelling.
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Randy Newman
The Randy Newman Songbook Vol. 2
A reflective collection of Randy Newman's witty and poignant storytelling delivered through simple yet captivating arrangements.
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Blitzen Trapper
Destroyer of the Void
A mystical blend of folk-rock and alt-country, weaving narratives through rich instrumentation and evocative songwriting.
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Blitzen Trapper
American Goldwing
A rich tapestry of Americana that weaves together nostalgia with a modern twist, layered with harmonies and vivid storytelling.
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Lambchop
FLOTUS
A sprawling soundscape of hypnotic rhythms and rich textures envelops the listener in introspective narratives and experimental arrangements.
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Lambchop
This
A reflective tapestry of gentle melodies and intimate lyrics, weaving together melancholic themes with understated instrumentation.
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Drive-By Truckers
Go-Go Boots
A vivid tapestry of Southern storytelling woven with gritty guitars and rich, emotive harmonies.
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Drive-By Truckers
American Band
A raw exploration of American identity framed by gritty narratives and melodic storytelling, blending Southern rock with poignant social commentary.
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Wilco
The Whole Love
A rich tapestry of experimental sounds and introspective lyrics woven through alternative country and rock influences.
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Wilco
Star Wars
A playful and experimental blend of alternative country sounds with abstract lyrics and unconventional song structures.
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Steve Earle
Colvin & Earle
A soulful blend of Americana and folk, where heartfelt harmonies intertwine with reflective storytelling.
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