10 Music Artists Who Released Their Best Album Last

10. The Ballad Of Dood And Juanita - Sturgill Simpson

For all his antics, from busking outside the CMA's, to the content of each new release, Sturgill Simpson is one of the most exciting, intriguing, and musically gifted artists to come from the contemporary country scene.

Being from the hills of Kentucky, his flavour of country is far from the glitzy lights of Nashville, instead opting to release a discography of music that forgoes snap-tracks, endless features, and samey lyrics in favour of far more Appalachian substance.

Each of Sturgill Simpson's offerings are wholly unique from one another, and though offerings like Sound & Fury may stay with the listener far longer, The Ballad of Dood and Juanita is a delightful album to end what is 17 years of superb quality.

2021's The Ballad of Dood and Juanita is wonderful, drawing clear inspiration from country music from decades past. It's far from groundbreaking, and won't be confused for a spacey, prog-rock symphony, but the simplicity in its storytelling pairs wonderfully with the sharp fiddle, rumbly double bass, and raspy vocals.

Simpson has remained steadfast on his belief that five studio albums would be all he would release as a solo artist, explaining that each has a pivotal role to play in a much wider story.