I don't understand why modern folk, country, bluegrass etc sound so different? Not different songs/styles, but artists doing covers of classic songs, even when they try to sound the same, almost always are pretty noticeably different. I have a couple guesses, one being that the use of multiple mics allows greater instrumental pickup, and a second that also revolves around mics, but this time that the mics are better and pick up more song.

But the instrumentation isn't the only difference. Another big thing I've noticed is the singing. I'm still trying to put my finger on it, but I think it's that it sounds clearer. Also, maybe more female vocalists. Anyone else have some clues?