Second Albums
I think I’ve finally figured out why the second album of any band I am geeked on is never as good as the first album I listened to. Music is unique in that I consume any album many many times, often in a row. Books are often one and done and movies might be watched a couples time but never in a row. What happens for me is that I become familiar with the album, I start to find new wrinkles in its character, and then finally invest enough time and attention to where I really like it. I’ve always had to go through this process with any of my favorite albums.
Then some band puts out their second album, or I decide to get another one from their catalog. Even if I have low expectations, there is at some level a connection between the two albums and I count on some familiarity with the second album. But since I haven’t spent the time, there’s no way I can appreciate it as much as the original album. So, the first couple spins usually leave me with a disappointed taste and it takes an even larger investment to wash that away, compared with listening as a blank slate.
Super simple. Basic description of self-conditioning. Although now that I realize it, I might be able to overcome that in the future (looking at you, Wolf Parade, Islands, Futureheads, My Morning Jacket, and Slipknot. Wait, no. Not Slipknot.)