The only thing I would like to add to all the great stuff here is the problem of CDs. They have changed forever the way we listen to recorded music.

Do you remember listening to your old LPs, say like a Beatles album that became so familiar, the next track had started in your head as soon as the last one had ended? The order of the tracks was as important as the individual songs. With the wonders of modern technology you can just touch a button and hear only the tracks you really like. How many of us now listen to the whole CD through after the first few times? I think a little of the 'magic' has gone with the arrival of the 'skip' button.

I concur entirely about jams/sessions. Live music is different, the worst performance always has at least some exciting moments, even if the style of it may not be exactly to your taste. You hear, feel, smell and taste a live performance, especially in some venues.Where as you only hear, a recorded one.

I do find volume is a problem now, in my dotage. My ears hurt, at rock events.