For the same reasons I enjoy live recordings much more than flawless studio products, and performances of local musicians over the carbon-copy performances of nationally-touring music stars (also, at a fraction of the cost). One of my favorite recordings is "Live at Mona's" - New York City's longest-running Irish session recorded live in a nondescript tiny bar on the lower east side. In the background you can hear the billiard balls clinking on a nearby table, a door opening and shutting, the ventilation system noises, and muffled conversations in the background. But it's real - it has all the ambiance of a real live session. The musicianship is first rate, but still rooted in the reality of the situation. It's almost as good as being there in person.

Cheers, S. in Seattle