The best Roots Rock albums
of the 2010s.
Where to start with 2010–2019 roots rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 2010s — roots rock
Top picks from 2010–2019, ranked by where we would start.
Bryan Adams
Shine a Light
A vibrant blend of rock and pop, infused with heartfelt lyrics and anthemic melodies that define Adams' enduring style.
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Bryan Adams
Tracks of My Years
A heartfelt collection of classic covers, blending nostalgic melodies with Adams' signature rock-infused vocal style.
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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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Los Lobos
Llegó Navidad
A vibrant fusion of traditional holiday melodies and contemporary Chicano rock, radiating warmth and festive spirit.
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Los Lobos
Tin Can Trust
A rich tapestry of Americana, blending Chicano rock and roots influences with heartfelt storytelling and vibrant instrumentation.
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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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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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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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BoDeans
I Can't Stop
A vibrant blend of heartland rock and alternative influences, propelled by earnest melodies and rich harmonies.
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BoDeans
Mr. Sad Clown
A reflective blend of heartland rock and alternative sounds, weaving poignant storytelling through melodic hooks and emotive instrumentation.
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The Wallflowers
Glad All Over
A blend of roots rock and alternative melodies, imbued with lyrical storytelling and a sense of nostalgic reflection.
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Hootie & the Blowfish
Imperfect Circle
A reflective blend of rootsy melodies and heartfelt lyrics that capture the essence of life's imperfections.
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Dave Alvin
Common Ground: Dave & Phil Alvin Play and Sing the Songs of Big Bill Broonzy
A heartfelt homage that blends bluesy guitar riffs with soulful harmonies, capturing the spirit of Big Bill Broonzy's timeless legacy.
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Dave Alvin
Eleven Eleven
A tapestry of Americana, blending storytelling with raw blues and folk-infused melodies that evoke the American experience.
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Alabama Shakes
Sound & Color
A vibrant blend of Southern rock and soul, infused with experimental textures and raw emotional depth.
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Alabama Shakes
Boys & Girls
Raw, soulful vocals collide with gritty guitar riffs and a back-to-basics rock rhythm, capturing the spirit of Southern roots music.
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Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
The Lion the Beast the Beat
A vibrant blend of roots rock and soulful melodies, interwoven with potent lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
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Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
Grace Potter and the Nocturnals
A vibrant blend of roots rock and soulful melodies, woven together by Grace Potter's powerful vocals and dynamic instrumentation.
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