I think it is time to retire

Whoa, calm down everyone! I think that many of those who responded to this post are far more "mean-spirited" than Jjmali. His point has been entirely skewed by the hand-wringers that are so worried about the artists' feelings (sniff, sniff, bottom lip-biting whimper). He's right there are some acts that are past their prime, it's obvious. Hey if you enjoy it, it's O.K. Just don't claim that some of these acts are turning out work that is of the caliber they made in their prime. I don't agree with everyone on his list, but I'd definitely add Fleedwood Mac to the list. "Say You Will," their last album, was garbage.

This post is meaningful due to the record industry's policy of NO RETURNS.
If you open and play the disk and it stinks on ice "tough s**t for you, booby! You bought it!"
In this day and age, I'd like to see new releases available for listening in low rez (for free) so you decide before buying an $18.99 turd.

In this day and age, I'd like to see new releases available for listening in low rez (for free) so you decide before buying an $18.99 turd.

Many music stores allow you to listen to exceprts of every song on every cd they sell, Borders, Barnes & Noble, Wal Mart and many others.

Amazon.com also does this on-line and allmusic.com has snippets from most albums.

No mean-spirit intended, none taken. I'm honestly fascinated by the subject. Had the Beatles made 3 or 4 more albums that weren't "Revolver" quality, how many people would be upset out there? Not me. I like the fact that there are still Stones albums out there that I might still take in, if I have an inkling to. Every now and then I hear a Stones song that I've never heard before. I like that. On the other hand, every Beatles song in existence is sunk into our DNA by now. There's no more.

Put another way - What is your preference for rock career management:

The Police - 5 albums, all great.
The Stones - 30+ albums, a dozen great.

?