Your Go to CD to Impress

Well, I always reach for The Rite of Spring conducted by Eiji Oue on Reference Recording
(RR-70CD). Very dynamic - Powerful - Engaging!

+1
For someone not familiar with the Rite of Spring it might not mean much, but if you are.....prepare to have your socks knocked off by this recording!

Second the following earlier picks:
Nils Lofgren - Keith Don't Go
Patricia Barber - Alfie

A lesser known (probably because sung in French) fave of mine:

Michel Jonasz - Le Temps Passé
(From the album 'La Fabuleuse Histoire de Mister Swing')
Not only the best live recording I have ever heard, but with astounding soundstage and bass that will raise the odd eyebrow.

Ginger Baker's "Why?"  Specifically the first cut. 

Why?

Because 100% of my friends and acquaintances have some idea of who he is, and second, they have not heard anything by him since Cream.  Kinda wakes 'em up, ya know?

Very nice- oblgny.

DiMeola, Ponty, and Clark - Rites of String - absolutely gorgeous production and execution


Dire Straits - "Why Worry" (from BIA)