Album: Daniel Herskedal, Marius Neset, Neck of the Woods (Edition)

The thought of a Norwegian tuba and sax duet might not set the heart racing, but Herskedal's compositions for earthy brass and airy reed, plus the ambient hum of a vocal ensemble on three tracks, makes for one of the most compelling sounds of the year.

A limited Balkan vamp aside, this aims for the skies and gets there, yet again confirming sax-man Neset's promise. They end with a perfect version of Abdullah Ibrahim's most perfect song, "The Wedding".