Accordion

The accordion, so reviled it inspired an all-accordion group called "Those Darn Accordions," is not just the featured instrument in polka. It also features prominently in zydeco, cumbia, and some general instrumental-pop and stereo-demonstration albums. Its diminutive cousin, the German concertina, became an integral part of Tahitian folk music. And of course "continental" music of Italy and France relies on the instrument.

Dom Cortese, the first-call session accordionist, appears on many albums, particularly for the Command and Time labels. Much of the Three Suns' distinctive sound is accordion. And what could be more intriguing than jazz accordion? Tito & his Swingtet make the attempt with such Raymond Scott-worthy titles as "Nightmare of a Termite" and "Opus for Squeeze Box." Most accordion albums just rely on momentary displays of virtuosity, however. Uptempo warhorses such as "Tico Tico" and "Sabre Dance" do not escape the flair of the accordionist.

Buying: Accordion albums usually at least have wacky jacket art, obviously to compensate for what most people consider an acquired, if not outright perverse, taste.