k.d. lang - Absolute Torch & Twang

An '80s high-water mark in country music, Absolute Torch and Twang stands as one of the Alberta singer's finest recorded moments. It's no surprise that this album, which arrived on the heels of Shadowland, helped make her a household name, especially with the success of the lead single "Trail of Broken Hearts". The album went on to win the GRAMMY for 'Country Album of the Year' for 1990.

Her rich emotive voice, breezily handles country swing ("Three Days"), country rock ("Didn't I," "Big Big Love") and somber tearjerkers ("Wallflower Waltz," "Pullin' Back the Reins"), the latter foreshadowing future albums such as Ingenue. Ably abetted by the Reclines, lang delivers a set that makes good on its name while demonstrating why she is among the most electrifying artists Canada has ever produced- even when she's not wearing the infamous wedding dress. --Adem Tepedelen

Heavyweight vinyl pressed by Sire Records. Includes bonus 7" single.