Alex,
The Norman/Masur recording of Strauss' Four Last Songs (Philips) should have made my list as well. As Trent points out, it's an impossible task to make such choices.
Have you noticed the similarity between the color of Jessye's voice and that hornist? Spectacular. The quotes from earlier works, made at the apotheosis of a dying composer's career, go right through me as well (goosebumps right now hearing them in my head).
Charlie,
I'll check out Yellow Shark. I don't know the recording but know and admire the group (Valentin Garvie for the geeks and fans of Argentine football).
Keep 'em coming. This is fun.
EC