It's all about the songs:

This craft gives us great joy. We write and record what we hear (& want to hear), but the songs don't really get a life of their own until people like you come to know and love them.

"Real" song diatribe:

We like "real" songs. Don't get us wrong- We are just as attracted as anyone to a good groove (all by itself), or cool sonic textures, or unorthodox structures. However, at the end of the day, what really brings happiness is a song with:

• good structure- it's kind of like physical beauty- you can only re-arrange the pieces of the human body so much before it loses it's power of attraction. Ankle-breasts might be original and innovative, but you're not going to seek out the girl (or guy) with ankle-breasts at the end of the party. It's the same with song structures.
• linear (or at least semi-logical) narrative structure
• strong chorus melody
• tight instrumental performances, and
• a good groove