Yes, it's the norm these days, Hank.

The problems come when we talk about CONCERT albums, where, say, a virtuoso player is performing a violin concerto. In film music, well, you can always say it was MEANT to be only recorded, so the result is what matters.

But in concert music, a violin concerto with overlaps and splices every 20 seconds ... well, that's more controversial. The listener thinks, 'Ah, that performer has bettered every previous player' when in fact it's just a mix-job of many takes. Maybe it depends on whether the CD cover has the PLAYER'S or orchestra's name in big letters, or the OPUS or composer's. On a CD titled, 'JOE BLOGGS plays Elgar' we expect a performance with no cheats, since it's a showcase for Joe. But if it says, 'ELGAR performed by Joe Bloggs' then it's the PIECES and composer that are highlighted, and can be presented 'prefectly'.

Of ccourse, the 'Red House' release is a very fine recording, and beautifully done.

Last Edited By: William D McCrum Apr 18 14 11:25 AM. Edited 1 times.