The 100 Best Singles of 2008

89

"Alabama High-Test"   BY OLD CROW MEDICINE   SHOW

A fast-rhyming banjo blues from old-timey cowpunks high-tailing it down the southbound highway with Smokey on their bumper and drugs in their trunk.

90

"Don't Touch Me (Throw   da Water on 'Em)"   BY BUSTA RHYMES

Busta breaks out of club-rap purgatory to drop a lightning-tongued salvo about how hot he is. When MCs talk about spitting fire, this is what they mean.

91

"Check Your Coat"   BY O'NEAL McKNIGHT

The "Billie Jean" bounce of this R&B newcomer's Michael Jackson-obsessed jam is guaranteed to get the party started — especially if it's the kind of party where Diddy shows up and dances on a banquette.

Heads up, Little Steven. No garage-rock jam this year was as messy — or as fun — as this Texas trio's joint, which mixes skronky Farfisas, clattering drums and thudding bass lines with righteous psychedelia.

• View List: 2008 Singles of the Year