Music for 2022- Is It Just Me Or?..

@bigtwin 

I find your comments interesting with regards to the periods of influence and how tastes change over time (which I definitely agree with). For me, having had a love for listening to music since the age of 5 (when I got my first Beatles records) my interest has been long running. In my case I would say I was very influenced between the age of 10 to my early 20’s but something changed when I reached my 30’s. I think that change was driven by access to more available funds and the growth (as well as my exposure) of the internet.

I’m in my late 50’s now and have I would say that from age 35 on I have been more interested in music than I was in my teen years. In fact- I’ve bought more music in the last 10 years than at any other point in my life.

As for changing tastes I have realized this as well- but mostly in a broader sense. I’ve become more aware of the vast collection of music that is available and with that a greater appreciation of it. This motivates me to continue seeking new artists and music.  

As for the “unaccepting” aspect of it- that would fall solely into rap/hip hop or any of the “whiny” pop vocal music that seems rampant today. Not only do I not get it- I don’t see that it holds any artistic value (but to each his own).

I’m not sure where my preferences will be in another 10 years or more but I do see my interests changing and I think that’s a good thing!

But still- I think 2022 was a slow year when it comes to music.

I’m always looking for new music- there’s a catalog that I use which comes out 2-3 times a year, the rest of the time I check new releases on “Album Of The Year” (website that tracks new releases). There’s also Bandcamp- which is also helpful.

As for style or genre it’s across the board (excluding country/rap/hip hop or punk). Anything I find compelling. There just didn’t seem to be as much out there this year- wondering if anyone else that felt the same.

New music by new artists? Or, new music by established Artists/Bands?

@jafant  There are artists that I regularly follow but I’m always seeking out new artists as well. I was never really into jazz but have been paying more attention to these artists over the last couple of years.

@deadhead1000  I see truth in your point regarding the difficulties over these last couple of years and must say you’re better than me when it comes to the classics! While I’ve always listened to KUSC (Los Angeles Classical) I rarely purchase classical music. With so many versions/variations I never know where to begin.

@baylinor 

So it sounds as if you’ve moved in the direction of streaming- have you found equipment that satisfies you equally to your vinyl setup? Close to or just livable?

@simonmoon 

That’s great! What is your primary source for buying the music you find? Stores, Online..

@arcticdeth 

You’ve been busy- store or online? I was at Amoeba Records in Hollywood last Friday picking through things- they have a Metal section there you would love!

@tylermunns 

Right? After reading your post I did a lookup on these songs. Beyoncé and “Her future husband Jay Z” is how it came up- Yay! So I watched the first 10 seconds and shut it off. Next onto Saucy Santana (whom I had never heard of and hope to not ever again) and I was utterly speechless. I shut it off after 10 seconds as well but unfortunately I will never be able to “unsee” what I was exposed to.

@dz13 

I just did my last buy for 2022 a couple of weeks ago and (as I wrote when starting this thread) only picked up about 35 titles. So that puts me down to about a third of what I’ve usually bought in the past.

Looking over your stuff- I’ve always found Alex G entertaining but could never bring myself to purchase Beach House or Soccer Mommy. Listened to Big Thief but have never purchased.

I do the same thing as you’ve described- get a list and roll through via Spotify. When I’m done with the list I go back and listen to it again just to make sure I’m in. You should try AOTM’s website (Album of the Year) for really comprehensive lists. They update as the titles are released and you can sort by genres. Hopefully 2023 brings more offerings (at least for stuff I’m interested in).

@dz13-

Will do. I’ll put a complete list of my buys for the year and send you a pm. I forward these off to others as well- just haven’t finished up yet.