1. Understanding the work of pivotal artists actually is important to making a refined critical statement. We’re not purporting to be fans of modern music, we’re purporting to be critics; as such, an ability to be conversant in artists who formed the genre(s) is a pivotal skill. Dismissing someone with obvious and far-reaching influence (like New Order) is dangerous in that it weakens one’s ability to gauge the value of new music. If we were looking for an emotional attachment to music, we’d be running a fan site; we’re looking to respond critically to music, which is functionally different.

2. I didn’t listen to New Order when I was seven. I listened to the same horrible shit that you did. I went out and found important music as I developed as a listener. I have no sentimental attachment to New Order, just an understanding of their importance.

3. It seems facile to say that music isn’t as important as literature, or that music is more transient and ephemeral. If you wanted an alien to understand 1974, you’d pass along Up For the Down Stroke before Fear of Flying. (I think.)