Yay, this thread!
1. Jaga Jazzist - One-Armed Bandit
I'm not exactly an expert in instrumental albums, nu-jazz, post-rock, or whatever else you'd call this, but I know this is my favorite album of 2010. Most of the tracks are very captivating and easy to listen to, with lots of fun and interesting instrumentation. The experience definitely weakens towards the end of the album, but overall, a very solid outing by Jaga Jazzist.
2. Guster - Easy Wonderful
I'm a Guster fanboy so I suppose this is expected, but I find this to be another solid release from my favorite alternative rockers. Not quite as good as Ganging or Lost and Gone, but still endlessly enjoyable and heartbreaking.
3. Beach House - Teen Dream
I guess I'm a sucker for catchy, feel-good music, but Teen Dream was my go-to album when I just wanted to relax and space out in my own company. One of my first experiences with dream pop, and so far, the best experience.
Honorable Mentions
Swans - My Father Will Guide Me Up a Rope To the Sky
Vampire Weekend - Contra (VW fan and proud)
Flying Lotus - Cosmogramma
Crippled Black Phoenix - I, Vigilante (great post rock)
These New Puritans - Hidden
Robert Plant - Band of Joy
LCD Soundsystem - This Is Happening
Jack Johnson - To The Sea