ALARM’s Top 10 Albums of 2008

6. Rodriguez: Cold Fact (Light in the Attic)

On first listen, the psychedelic folk styles of Detroit’s Rodriguez sound so familiar, it’s as though you’ve known his songs your whole life.

Originally released on the Sussex label in 1970, the album was largely overlooked in its home country, but unbeknownst to the inner-city troubadour, it grew an international cult following of millions (Rodriguez even became known as “Jesus” to many South African fans).

Upon its 2008 resurrection, Cold Fact became an instant classic, with tunes like “Sugarman” and “Hate Street Blues” still hitting a personal chord with every listener.