The band-written “How Many Times” might have been only O.K. in lesser hands. Instead, this standout ‘Kingdom of Desire’ track confirms the magic that was and still is Toto.

The Lovin’ Spoonful really sounded like nobody except themselves, and their 1966 sophomore release ‘Daydream’ consistently underscored that individuality.

It was easy to find jazz records that deserved a year-end salute; maybe ‘too’ easy. The heavy lifting came from figuring out which stood above the rest for this Best of 2017 list.

“Anna (Go to Him)” impacted the Beatles’ songwriting, and Arthur Alexander’s heartfelt vocal style influenced John Lennon’s intensely personal performances.

The short story is that Foghat had two platinum-selling albums back in the ’70s, of which ‘Boogie Motel’ was not one of them.

Not traditionally Chicago in any way, “Long Time No See” proves that Robert Lamm could still come up with something unique when he was motivated.

I saw body surfing up close at this Motorhead show, almost became an unwilling member in a mosh pit, and escaped unscathed. Who could ask for more?

Even in my jazz-centric world, I can come upon enough standout non-jazz records to put together a decent-sized Best of 2017 list.

Projekt Gemineye’s ‘A Brand New Day’ is a great continuation of 2017’s ‘An Ordinary Day,’ with a more guitar-centered progressive hard-rock core.

Released 10 years ago this week, Left Lane Cruiser’s ‘Bring Yo’ Ass to the Table’ lunges straight for your soul and puts a stranglehold on it.