Album vs. the single song
Lately, we all seem to be bombarded with the importance of the song. With mp3's and downloading songs it seems to be a world where artists are looking for their single to make it instead of their album. As of recently, I have found that I am of a different mind. I am an album person and not a single person. Although, I enjoy the catchy pop song that might make it to radio (college radio of course!), I think it isn't the ultimate expression of the artist. My opinion is that the advent of the download of the song is destroying the album. You may ask, what is so important about the album and why do I care? Well, the album is a well crafted selection of songs and artwork. It is the singular expression of the artist through multiple mediums. In some instances the music in the album speaks as if they are movements in a larger symphony. When the single takes precedence over the album it is like taking the best looking apple off the apple tree. You can appreciate the individual apple, but it was meant to be appreciated on the tree. OK, so I am pretty serious about listening to albums as a whole. As a matter of fact, I rarely ever listen to my ipod on shuffle. I always listen to albums as a whole from start to finish. I think this is the best way to listen and enjoy the music of the artist. I have had this discussion with various friends recently with mixed opinions... I even see artists discussing this topic too. I am not saying that all have to change to album listener, just take times to appreciate the music as the artist intended you to hear it once and a while - in the context of their album. Thoughts? Agree or disagree?

Best Blogs out there?
I thought I'd take a poll for those following my blog as to what constitutes a good blog. Interesting topic for a blog, huh? OK so I know all your answers will be mine of course (just kidding!). Anyway, I know there is many different ways to define what a "good" blog is. So I will further define it as a good blog as entertaining, informative, and allows for good communication. A lot of my favorite blogs tend to be music info blogs or local community blogs... I even have some blogs of my friends that are good too. For now I will list some of my favorite music blogs that I check out from time to time:
http://www.catbirdseat.org/catbirdseat/
http://www.brooklynvegan.com/
http://www.subterraneanblog.com/
The Catbird Seat is more of a music discussion and links, but is still quite well respected. The Brooklyn Vegan Blog is a little more a local listing for NYC, but it still includes some good music and videos. Amazingly, MTV got something right with the Subterranean blog which takes it's name from the former show. It is actually pretty good with tons of videos and live stuff too. Anyone have favorite blogs you track? If so why?