Instrumental Album of The Year

Amon Tobin, ''FOLEY ROOM''

The Brazilian native who currently resides in Montreal rethought his approach to music before completing his newest album. Armed with a sound engineer and a collection of microphones, he set out to find material and inspiration from unlikely sources such as robotics, animals and insects. A short documentary film accompanies ''Foley Room's'' release. (Ninja Tune*Outside)

Bob Lanois, ''SNAKE ROAD''

Bob created his first solo album with his legendary producer brother Daniel, who has worked with U2, Peter Gabriel and Bob Dylan. A celebrated engineer and producer, Bob stepped away from the knobs and dials and let Daniel produce his album ''Snake Road.'' The result is a moody instrumental collection. (Cordova Bay*Fontana North)

Jayme Stone, ''THE UTMOST'' WINNER

A masterful banjoist, composer and educator, Jayme Stone's music is steeped in the lore of old-time bluegrass music. He has studied with banjo elders Bela Fleck, Tony Tischka, and Bill Evans, as well as luminaries Bill Frisell and Dave Douglas. His new album, ''The Utmost,'' features inventive roots music and a fresh new sound. (Independent*Festival

Joey Wright, ''JALOPY''

Joey Wright describes the music on ''Jalopy'' as ''cinematic quasi bluegrass jazz compositions.'' The follow-up to 2003's ''Camp'' draws on bluegrass, jazz, blues and world to create something unique yet familiar. Wright also plays guitar and mandolin for Sarah Harmer, and the now legendary bluegrass ensemble Crazy Strings. He also co-writes songs with his JUNO Award winning wife Jenny Whitely. (Black Hen*KOCK)

Richard Underhill, ''KENSINGTON SUITE''

Richard Underhill's warm alto saxophone sound, writing, arranging skills and soloing make him one of Canada's most distinctive jazz performers. He won a 2003 JUNO Award for his jazz album, ''Tales From The Blue Lounge'' and was nominated for the Prix du Jazz at the 2003 Montreal Jazz Festival. (Stubby*Outside)