Artist: Michael Jackson
Title: Thriller 25 (2008)

The biggest album ever, just got bigger.  The 25th Anniversary Edition of Thriller includes 6 previously unreleased bonus tracks.  And if that weren’t enough, the package includes a bonus DVD which includes Michael’s memorable performance of “Billie Jean” on the “Motown 25” television special.  Say what you will about Michael Jackson, but it’s hard to argue with the sales numbers he’s produced over the years; Thriller alone has sold over 104 Million copies worldwide.  Thriller will forever be know as a historic part of American culture from the 80’s and this 25th Anniversary Edition is an excellent re-release to celebrate the music that transformed Jackson into his generation’s Elvis.

Artist: Widespread Panic
Title: Free Somehow (2008)

You may have heard the joke:  Q.  What did the Widespread Panic fan say when he ran out of drugs?  A.  This band Sucks.  (Send hate mail to Dave Rose at Deep South Entertainment).  Well, this album, the band’s 10th studio recording, should put an end to the assumption that Panic is nothing more than a lifestyle jam band.  There are some amazing songs on this album, which includes the legendary guitarist (and Fayetteville, NC native) Jimmy Herring.  Unlike most Panic albums, where they first road-test the songs on tour and then record them, this album is packed of songs that have yet to make their live debut.  Panic, from Athens GA, for eight years running has been one of top grossing touring acts.  This album will help make it nine, I’m sure.

Raleigh native Tift Merritt delivers her third helping of amazingly crafted songs on the album Another Country.  Her first two albums brought her critical acclaim (Time Magazine’s top 10 records of the year) along with a Grammy nomination.  This album contains a mix of rock, soul, and folk and is sure to bring her continued success.  Merritt got her start playing the small clubs of Chapel Hill and Raleigh and has since appeared on Austin City Limits, The Late Show, and The Tonight Show.  If you’re a single-song download kind of person, might I recommend “Tell Me Something True” or “Morning is My Destination”.  I am from Raleigh and I have a feeling that when I travel abroad and asked where I’m from, if they are unfamiliar with our city, I will soon simply be able to say “The place where Tift Merritt is from.”