We'd like to present what we feel are the cream of the crop when it comes to country group and duo releases in 2008. We've chosen the best in traditional, contemporary and bluegrass music. These country duos and groups have put out music that earned them a spot on our Best of Country Music in 2008 list.

Note: Greatest Hits or Christmas collections were not included in our choices.

Eli Young Band - 'Jet Black and Jealous'

The Eli Young Band is a newer band out of Texas. With a really solid blend of country and rock, as well as really smooth, tight harmonies, they are fast becoming a musical force to be reckoned with. Their songs are powerful both musically and lyrically. The album was released on September 16th.

Joey + Rory - 'The Life of a Song'

Most people were introduced to Joey + Rory on CMT's Can You Duet show. You may have seen their television ads for Overstock.com. Their debut single "Cheater, Cheater" is making its way up the charts, showing a great traditional sound that is seldom heard on country radio today. If you enjoy traditional sounding music, this album is one I highly recommend adding to your collection. Their harmonies are awesome, and they have a unique sound. The album was released on October 28th.

Lady Antebellum - 'Lady Antebellum'

Lady Antebellum have had a stellar year in 2008. They released their self-titled debut album on April 15th. Their debut single "Love Don't Live Here" peaked at No. 3, and their album debuted at No. 1. The group also picked up two major awards -- ACM New Group/Duo and CMA New Artist Award. Not bad at all.

Little Big Town - 'A Place to Land' (Deluxe Edition)

Little Big Town recently left their old label, Equity Records, to move to major label powerhouse Capitol Nashville. The first thing they did upon joining the new label was to record some new tracks to add to their album A Place To Land, and re-release it on Capitol Nashville. New tracks include the live version of "Life in a Northern Town," with Sugarland and Jake Owen, "Good Lord Willing," "Love Profound" and "You're Gonna Love Me." The album was released on October 14th.

Montgomery Gentry - 'Back When I Knew It All'

Montgomery Gentry are back with one of their best albums to date. This album is a return to the rockin' music that was found on earlier albums, and if it doesn't get you moving then you're not listening with the right set of ears. The album includes a duet with Toby Keith on the song "I Pick My Parties," as well as the recent No. 1 with the title cut.

Sugarland - 'Love on the Inside'

Sugarland puts out another excellent record with Love on the Inside. The first single "All I Want to Do" topped the charts, and the second single "Already Gone" seems desitined to do the same. One of my favorite tracks is the humorous "Steve Earle," which talks about the numerous wives he's had. Jennifer sings "Steve Earle, Steve Earle, please write a song for me. I promise, I won't take a dime when it comes my time to leave." The album was released on July 22nd.

The Grascals - 'Keep on Walkin''

The Grascals were the recepients of the International Bluegrass Music Association Entertainer of the Year in 2006 and 2007.The band has become known for not only their talent, but for their song selections. Keep On Walkin' is full of bluegrass tunes that will have your feet tapping from start to finish. The album was released on July 15th.

The Lost Trailers - 'Holler Back'

The Lost Trailers are one of the hardest working acts in country music today. This is the group's second major label album. The title track was a Top 10 single for the group, peaking at No. 9 on the charts. The album was released on August 26th.

The Road Hammers - 'Blood, Sweat & Steel'

The album Blood, Sweat & Steel is filled with fun music to listen to from an extremely high energy group. The group is originally from Canada, and had great success in their homeland. There are quite a few truck driving songs, as well as some originals, like the autobiographical "I'm a Road Hammer." My favorite track is the band's cover of the Del Reeve's song "Girl on a Billboard." If you enjoy country rock, I think you'll enjoy the Road Hammers sound. The album was released on June 24th.

Zac Brown Band - 'The Foundation'

The Zac Brown band seemed to come out of nowhere with the huge hit "Chicken Fried," but they've been playing over 200 dates a year, so they were definitely getting some exposure. With the release of their debut album, The Foundation, they are showing off their unique sound that consists of country, reggae, and even some bluegrass that will have you jamming within the first song. The album was released on November 18th.