The Best Country and Americana Albums of the 2000s

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1. 1
   Van Lear RoseLoretta Lynn

   Van Lear Rose

   Loretta Lynn · 2004 · Country & Americana

   A raw, Jack White-produced late-career triumph that introduced her to a new audience. Vital and acclaimed. A remarkable comeback.

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2. 2
   HomeThe Chicks

   Home

   The Chicks · 2002 · Country & Americana

   A bluegrass-leaning, acoustic peak of harmony and craft. Beautiful and acclaimed. A creative high.

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3. 3
   HeartbreakerRyan Adams

   Heartbreaker

   Ryan Adams · 2000 · Country & Americana

   A raw, affecting alt-country solo debut of break-up songs and easy melody. Honest and beloved. His finest record.

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4. 4
   GoldRyan Adams

   Gold

   Ryan Adams · 2001 · Country & Americana

   A sprawling, classic-rock-leaning solo peak. Tuneful and acclaimed. A high point.

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5. 5
   Southern Rock OperaDrive-By Truckers

   Southern Rock Opera

   Drive-By Truckers · 2001 · Country & Americana

   An ambitious double-album meditation on the American South. Bold and acclaimed. Their masterpiece.

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6. 6
   Decoration DayDrive-By Truckers

   Decoration Day

   Drive-By Truckers · 2003 · Country & Americana

   A sharp, storytelling Southern-rock peak. Raw and acclaimed. A high point.

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7. 7
   Raising SandRobert Plant and Alison Krauss

   Raising Sand

   Robert Plant and Alison Krauss · 2007 · Country & Americana

   A hushed, atmospheric Americana collaboration that swept the Grammys. Beautiful and acclaimed. A late-career landmark.

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