I just got a CD by a musician whose act I liked very much (and whom I will not out, here). However, when I listened to it, there was a lot more music than there was when he was on the stage by himself. His voice and guitar was lost in the cacaphony of drums and other instruments, and it was NOT what I wanted to hear. This same phenomenon has happened for me on more than one occasion.

I am wondering if there is some irresistible force compelling musicians to over-produce when they are in the studio, surrounded by all the equipment. Why can't I just buy their CD and get what I heard on the stage?!! Does anyone else share this frustration?

I feel this especially strongly since this is folk music. And for me, folk music is necessarily more simple and approachable. It is about the voice, the instrument, and the story. It is NOT about the razzle-dazzle of studio effects and a back-up band that was nowhere to be seen when I saw the performer.

Comments, please.