This set is a collection of my favorite tracks from 2010. A few of these actually hit #1 on the Billboard Dance chart, and some never even made it onto the chart at all. Many of these may be familiar as I've used them in previous podcasts, while a few are making their debut in this episode of "Press Play." What binds all these songs together, aside from them being my personal favorites from the last year, is the epic quality they all posses.

But what makes a track "epic?" In some cases, it's the artist and the remixer teaming up. In other cases, it's the lyrics, or the emotion conveyed in both music and words. The key to "epic" for me is the way a song hits me. I can't tell you exactly what "epic" is, but I (and you) know it when I hear it.

A word about my #1 and #2 picks for 2010; they're probably something you'll find unexpected:

#1: Morel - Shoegazer Disco (Linus Loves Remix)
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Rich Morel is practically an institution in the music industry, and "Shoegazer Disco" leaves no doubt as to why. There's almost a mythical quality to this track (thanks in part to Linus Loves' brilliant treatment in the remix). But what pushes this one into "epic," and into my #1 slot, are the lyrics:

"There's a moment when everything changes,
the split-second from which point,
everything that follows is forever different,
from what came just an instant before.
Sometimes it's a phone call,
sometimes it's a hand-shake,
sometimes it's a look in your best friend's eyes.
You never expect it.
You never forget the moment,
when for the first time you realize,
that you can't go back ever again.
I'll remember you,
And I hope you'll remember me too.
Again."

Rich, thanks for this one; you've touched my soul.

#2: Matt Alber - End of the World (Morgan Page Pop Mix Extended)
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The first time I heard "End of the World," I was visiting friends in L.A. My buddy plopped me down in front of the TV and told me I had to see the video for this song because the L.A. artist was gay and it featured two men dancing together. By the end of the song, I was crying. Alber had sung a ballad so beautiful, so romantic, so poignant and so powerful, that I was unable to talk for a few minutes. I immediately logged into Amazon.com and ordered a copy of his album based on this one song alone. I also wondered if "End of the World" would find its way to the dance floor, and if anyone would be able to do it justice in a remix. Well, when I saw Morgan Page's name attached to it, my fears vanished. I love this song, and this mix; I'd have to place it at #2 for the year in fact, and every time I play it in a set, someone undoubtedly either comes up to ask what it is, or to thank me for included it in the set. There is no other word to describe this song than "epic," and I'm very proud to be wrapping up this set on such a beautiful note.

I realize my picks may not be your picks for the year, but hopefully, you'll have found a few of your favorites in here somewhere.