Jason Isbell is frequently lauded as one of the best songwriters (and twitter follows) in the world. On 2013’s Southeastern he earns that reputation and then some. Recorded after a stint in rehab and before his marriage to fellow songwriter and fiddle player, Amanda Shires, Southeastern is the most personal album Isbell has ever recorded. Songs like “Elephant” and “Cover Me Up” are arguably two of the three most emotionally affecting songs of Isbell’s entire discography (sorry I have to save room for “If We Were Vampires” off of 2017’s incredible The Nashville Sound). It’s a truly gripping the record that doesn’t let the listener go without feeling something.
25. Southeastern- Jason Isbell (2013)
Mitch's Minute 