"This album sucks!" or The Importance of Adequate Hardware and Volume.

I was listening to the delicate noise of Don't Wake Me Up by The Microphones when I was struck by the thought "this album rocks yo".

Beyond that, it also got me thinking on the importance of a few variables while listening to an album, especially a new (to you) one.
I can't tell you how many times people have dismissed an album I have recommended after a single half assed listen, on their uncalibrated Windows Media Player v.6.2, while watching reruns of Full House on cable. It's happened with nearly everyone I know (present readers excluded OF COURSE). To truly enjoy an album for all that it's worth, certain things must be in order! In my opinion, they are as follows.

• Proper Hardware - If you can't spend more than $2,000 on a component system, I suggest picking up a set of headphones. A $150-200 pair of headphones can rival the aforementioned component system in terms of clarity and response (with a simple midrange CD player).
• Proper Equalization - Spending a few minutes adjusting your hardware will insure smooooth sounds. That way, all that hard work the musician put into perfecting their album won't be destroyed by your laziness.
• Proper Volume - I can't begin to stress how important this is. The thing I see most often is the volume turned far too low. It's especially important when listening to an album for the first time to have the volume at a level which allows you to take in all the nuances of the music and vocals. Remember, the whole idea of playing back recorded music is to try to replicate the live experience. Keep it loud!

One more thing that should be mentioned.... most albums should NOT be played on Random (yea.. take THAT from hell)

Without these things in place my opinion of Don't Wake Me Up would probably be very negative, it would sound like unlistenable noise. Instead, I find it to be a moving record, equally able to soothe you or act as a precursor to your suicide note.

Finally : yes, I am a bastard.