I think the state of recording technology might have something to do with this. With 32 and even 64 track digital recording accessible to just about any musician, there is the accompanying temptation to add layer upon layer of additional tracks. With midi, anyone possessing a guitar, a voice, and reasonable command of technology can add literally dozens of instruments to what otherwise might have been a basic recording. You really don't even have to sing in key anymore, just run the vocal through a harmonizer.

I remain impressed with the quality of recordings from the 1920s through the 1950s. Without multi-track capabilities, without outboard effects of any kind save for tape reverb and acoustic echo, some incredible recordings were made that compare favorably with anything recorded in recent years. Why? Simple, singers had to sing, musicians had to know their instruments and sound engineers had to be able to get it down without recourse to fancy tricks or shortcuts.

So I think modern recording technology is of dubious benefit. There is a certain convenience to it all, but I think the wider effect on recorded music is negative.