Music that resonates with a listener is a rare gift for that receiver. And the artists who create it are to be admired for all that they produce and bestow. It's important to never lose sight of those truths and the power of aural art.

I can't truly say that I believe that any release is the "best," since that epithetical ideal, ranking system and all, doesn't and shouldn't apply to music. But I can say that the albums listed below were my favorites from the past twelve months. Bold and bracing big bands, wondrous Western Swing, South African singularity, orchestral allure, and combos both cloistered and unbound all made a long and lasting impact on this writer. These 10 gems left a mark on my ears, heart and soul, and I'd imagine they'll remain near and dear to me for the foreseeable future: