We'd like to present what we feel are the cream of the crop when it comes to male country album releases in 2008. We've chosen the best in traditional and contemporary country music. These male country artists have put out music that earned them a spot on our Best of Country Music in 2008 list.

Note: Greatest Hits or Christmas collections were not included in our choices.

Alan Jackson - 'Good Time'

What I love most about Alan Jackson's album is that he is back to his traditional honky tonk sound that he had when he first came on the scene. His previous two albums were Like Red on a Rose, which was filled with adult contemporary sounding music, and the gospel album, Precious Memories. So, it's been a while since fans had heard the Alan Jackson music they grew to know and love. The album was released on March 4th, and contains two number one singles, with "Small Town Southern Man," and the title track.

Billy Currington - 'Little Bit of Everything'

With his third album Little Bit of Everything,BillyCurrington gives fans just that -- an album that has something for everyone. The lead single, the R&B-infused "Don't" is making its way up the charts, and is in the Top 15 as I write this. The album was released on October 14th.

Blake Shelton - 'Startin' Fires'

Startin' Fires is Blake Shelton's fifth studio album. There are quite a few introspective tunes here where the character is looking back at his life, and thinking he should have done things differently. Such is the case with the first single "She Wouldn't Be Gone." Then, there is the unplugged duet with Miranda Lambert called "Bare Skin Rug" that is a lot of fun. The album was released on November 18th.

Brad Paisley - 'Play'

What's different about Play, is that it's a mostly instrumental album. Along with the traditional Brad Paisley compositions, you'll find several duets with other well known guitar players, like B.B. King, Keith Urban, Buck Owens, and Steve Wariner. Plus, the version of "Waiting on a Woman" with Andy Griffith is included here as well. The album was released on November 4th.

Craig Morgan - 'That's Why'

That's Why is Craig Morgan's first album on BNA Nashville. It contains the Top 10 single "Love Remembers." The songs on the album reflect things that many people can relate to. One of my favorite tracks is "Ordinary Angels." This song tells about how ordinary people can do extraordinary things. Fans of "Redneck Yacht Club" are sure to enjoy the new track called "Sticks," which is just one of several with a country living theme. The album was released on October 21st.

Darius Rucker - 'Learn to Live'

Darius Rucker has been the lead singer for the smash group Hootie & The Blowfish for years, and now he is making his mark in country music. He's definitely on a roll, as the first single from the album, "Don't Think I Don't Think About It" also became his first No. 1 song. My favorite track on this album is the honky tonk song "All I Want." He sings "You can have every penny that I will make on this here song. All I want you to leave me is alone." The album was released on September 16th.

George Strait - 'Troubadour'

George Strait released his 37th studio album Troubadour on April 1st. The album recently won the CMA Album of the Year award. Three singles have been released at the time I'm writing this. The first single "I Saw God Today" was Strait's 56th No. 1 song, and it won the CMA Single of the Year award this year as well. The second single, the title cut was a Top 10 hit, and the third, "River of Love" just debuted on the charts at No. 45. Other songs on the album include duets with longtime songwriter pal Dean Dillon, and Patty Loveless, The album was released on April 1st.

James Otto - 'Sunset Man'

As a member of the Muzik Mafia, James Otto has served his time and finally has his chance to shine. He brings a fresh new sound to country music. His music is a mixture of classic rock and modern country that attracts fans from all spectrums. Features his No. 1 hit, "Just Got Started Loving You." The album was released on April 8th.

Jamey Johnson - 'That Lonesome Song'

Jamey Johnson is a country singer's country singer. Everything he does is spot-on, traditional, rootsy, straight-to-the-heart, a little angsty, a little blue. His follow-up CD to his debut, The Dollar, comes on strong with superior picking, good lyrics, and all delivered with Johnson's powerful deep baritone. The album was released on August 5th.

Keith Anderson - 'C'Mon'

When describing talented artists who have never received the credit they deserve, Keith Anderson's name is sure to arise. He is one of the nicest and hardest working guys in the industry. His music is about life, love, and of course, partying. His fans are loyal, and once you hear his new album C'mon, you will see why. The album was released on August 5th.