David Mayfield faces stiff competition, but he's up to the challenge: He's spent much of his life as a sideman, earning national awards for his guitar and mandolin playing as a youth. He's been a Nashville hired gun, too, playing with his sister, Andy Griggs and The Avett Brothers. He even spent a couple years in Cadillac Sky, honing his songwriting chops. His bluegrass background is but a jumping-off point for songs ranging from honky-tonk and rock to folk and soul-soaked country. That versatility and experienced assurance allow him to outdistance the equally talented Parkingtons, but barely. —Chris Parker