10 Music Artists Who Released Their Best Album Second
8. Diamonds and Gasoline - Turnpike Troubadours
"And I would buy for you a diamond, or myself some gasoline. If I can't afford you darlin', then I can't afford to dream."
Working in the shadow of the bright lights of Nashville and the rodeo-inspired Texas scene, country music from the state of Oklahoma has a sneaky tendency to release some truly excellent country tunes.
Never before has a name been more fitting for a band, as Turnpike Troubadours' poetic song writing and and emphasis on rustic instrumentals are revered in the niche genre. It's widely believed that the Oklahoma-based outfit don't have a bad album in their catalogue, but what is perhaps even more universally agreed upon is that Diamonds and Gasoline is easily their best offering.
From the intimate, delicate and simply stunning storytelling of the titular track or the nostalgia-packed 1968, the quality of their 2010 release never drops below fantastic. Conversely, their debut, Bossier City, very much felt like a band at the beginning of their journey.
Sure, Diamonds and Gasoline is steeped in Red Dirt traditions, and as such won't make hip-hop heads swap their Nike trainers for cowboy boots. Yet, the consistency of lead singer Evan Felker's voice, the reliable strings and stalwart country charm are all present in abundance, which is everything we could ever ask for.