#1 Last of the Country Gentlemen - Josh T Pearson

Album: Last of the Country Gentlemen
Artist: Josh T Pearson

One line synopsis: Like Johnny Cash's country ballads stretched to infinity

Best Track: Sweetheart I Ain't Your Christ (whole album here)

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There was never any doubt in my mind about this, a truly fantastic album from start to finish. I've listened to it early in the morning, during the day at work, late(ish) at night and it never fails to draw me in. The songs are slow and beautiful, with the lyrics drawing you further and further in. You need this record in your collection, trust me.

I don't think it's been a vintage year for music, but all the records in my top 10 are deserving of praise. Suprised to find 3 mercury nominated albums in the list as my tastes have moved further and further away from a prize I used to respect. Maybe the judging panel are improving or maybe my taste is going down the pan.

If your're a fan of music geeks making top 10 lists then here's a few others for you to check out:
Rough Trade (with their copycat number 1)
The Quietus (if you thought my list was obscure you're in for a shock)
Drowned in Sound (they're still building the tension)
Bleep

Oh and middleman has just kicked off his list. Music & films.
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Notes on the top 10:
* Yes I am sad enough to do a top 10 every year
* All albums must have been released this year
* I must own the physical copy of each of them
* I'm fairly sure there are other albums out there that would make this list had I got round to buying them - Grouper, Nils Frahm and Oneohtrix Point Never spring to mind
* full countdown tagged nstop102011