“Ain’t It Blue” was written in the spirit of Chicago’s early work and would easily fit on any of their classic, pre-Caribou Ranch records.

None of the great talent assembled here gets stretched near their limits for this Desertion Trio excursion, but this diversion is for an altogether different mood.

Jack Bruce and Robin Trower’s ‘Seven Moons’ arrived a decade ago this month, proving there was still a place in this world for vintage-sounding psychedelic blues-rock.

Put together by Mighty Shamrocks veteran Mickey Stephens, the Poor Blue’s ‘Wasteground’ is a rootsy, autobiographical tour de force.

Here’s the part of the annual Best of 2017 lists that’s the most fun to pull together.

The Moody Blues have an unusual hold over fans, with many believing the group has mystical, otherworldly powers. And maybe they do.

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.