I think we tend to look for sophisticated sounding ways to express the simple fact that it’s a matter of delivering sound to your ears in a way that you find the most enjoyable. That’s different for everybody, and sometimes the descriptions can be a bit condescending, forgetting that it is different for everybody. For me, I want to hear what is on the recording and I don’t want it distorted or mellowed or artificial. But then again, I like my coffee black while other others take it with cream and sugar. Who’s right and who’s wrong? We all are if we have what we like.
I think I finally got there with my system after realizing that I could do better than the compromises I accepted. I love my system, it gets me over the line, but it may not do it for you. Nothing wrong with that.
I don’t worry about what the artist intended because I don’t know the artist. I don’t worry about trying to replicate a live performance because that’s impossible with reproduced music through electronic components. I just worry about the sound that brings me the most enjoyment. Sounds like that’s where the OP is now and that’s the right place.