OK... this one's cake. Astral Weeks , by Van Morrison. Because... well, it's perfect. I know it by heart... but it still makes my heart palpitate every time I hear it. Now, if I had to bring _2_ albums, I'd probably end up staring at the sand on the deserted island, all my neurons fried...

Truly, just about any Bob Marley album is worth investigating (personal favorites: Natty Dread, Catch a Fire, and Uprising). I just picked up the boxed set -- Songs of Freedom -- and it's a fabulous investment for the hardcore, as there's a bevy of unreleased mixes and fascinating early tracks...