25 Albums I Can't Live Without: #10

Zac Brown Band, "Uncaged"

We’ve made it to the top ten, y’all!

I’ve been a fan of Zac Brown Band all the way back to when they were a local phenomenon, long before they broke into the big time. Over the years, they’ve taken their music through all sorts of twists and turns, but 2012’s “Uncaged” may well be their most consistent album.

The band kicks things off with the joyous “Jump Right In,” which cultivates that vacation vibe:

The tropical theme continues with “Island Song” later on the record:

The title cut is an expression of the need to get outside and embrace adventure:

Tender ballads like “Goodbye in Her Eyes” (which makes the most of its shifts in dynamics) and “Sweet Annie” show the band’s softer side:

“The Wind” and “Natural Disaster” are straight-up country stompers:

“Lance’s Song” is a heartfelt tribute to a local musician who lost his life:

“Day That I Die” is a declaration for musicians and creatives everywhere:

Finally, “Last but Not Least” is one of my favorite moments on the album (alongside “Goodbye in Her Eyes”), not least because of Clay Cook’s featured vocals:

The band won a Grammy for Best Country Album for “Uncaged,” and it’s still a strong, appealing album over a dozen years after its release.

Photo credit: USO Annual Service Member of the Year Gala, Washington, D.C., October 20, 2016. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. 1st Class Chuck Burden), Public Domain