It was, honestly, a pretty lousy year for music. This list of Best Metal, Country and Hard Rock of 2017 highlights five exceptions, and some key honorable mentions.

‘Organ Monk Blue’ sustains Gregory Lewis’ intriguing concept of a Thelonious Monk on the organ. It didn’t hurt that this time Lewis revitalizes the blues along the way, too.

The late Gene Clark’s work never lacked critical praise, but mainstream acceptance was not to be had – and ‘Firebyrd’ was no exception.

As a protege of Connie Crothers, Jeff Pearring learned the importance of finding his own voice. ‘True Story’ is what happens when that inner voice comes pouring out.

Preston Frazier’s Best Rock and Pop of 2017 list touches on projects from established legends, as well as up-and-coming and criminally under-appreciated acts.

Reduced to the core quartet, there was nowhere else to go really: Toto had their backs against the wall, and they came out swinging.