BEST OF 2007: Top Albums #20-16 (Lucinda Williams, Chamillionaire, Patty Griffin, Joseph Arthur & The Lonely Astronauts, Arcade Fire) (Backstage Pass)

#25-21

20. Lucinda Williams, “West” (Lost Highway): California’s calming effect is starting to take hold of Lucinda Williams, who lets grand songs “West” and “Mama You Sweet” leisurely unfold and even makes time for a political daydream (“What If.”)

Lucinda Williams, "What If"

19. Chamillionaire, “Ultimate Victory” (Universal): Whether it’s the wailing guitar riffs that fill “Rock Star” or the slick dance rhythms of “Hip-Hop Police,” Chamillionaire is master of his domain, telling great stories with great rhymes.

Chamillionaire, "Hip-Hop Police"

18. Patty Griffin, “Children Running Through” (ATO): The way Patty Griffin pulls folk, gospel and soul together turns these touching songs into little miracles, openly questioning herself, but doing it with her incredibly powerful voice.

Patty Griffin, "Heavenly Day"

17. Joseph Arthur & The Lonely Astronauts, “Let’s Just Be” (Lonely Astronaut): Teaming up with a full-fledged band brought out Joseph Arthur’s inner frontman on this album of alt-folk steeped in Rolling Stones-ish blues and Bowiesque glam.

Joseph Arthur & The Lonely Astronauts, "Diamond Ring"

16. Arcade Fire, “Neon Bible” (Merge): Lyrics this dark, jaded and paranoid needed the happiest of bands playing the poppiest of melodies to keep it from sinking into the abyss. Luckily, Win Butler and friends were up to the challenge.

Arcade Fire, "No Cars Go"