Thanks for asking Neil!
Despite Dennis' good arguement for multiple discs for copying/backup purposes, I absolutely 100% prefer one disc (unless there's a serious technical issue).
Reasons: Less waste of materials. Less shelf space wasted (unless packaged in same size case). Having to change disc and having the macro flow broken.
Thoughts and suggestions: Most vinyl albums had side breaks and disc breaks for the obvious reason of physical limitations. Artists/producers programmed their music to fit within these limitations, sometimes creating distinct flows based around the limitations. Just as there's not 2 CDs for, let's say, Meddle or Close To The Edge, artistically designed "sides" can still work as a single flow if there's a little space included before "side two" (or "side three") begins, particularly if there's a hard entry. In special cases (ideally with the opinions of the artists requested) perhaps a "hard pause" could be authored into the disc with the listener required to press Enter or play to "Continue to Part B". Otherwise, including 5 to 10 seconds of silence could suffice if there was a well designed disc ending (like The Wall's side two).
BTW - I'm firmly against including bonus materials in the main program unless the artist thinks it's a great idea. This is where blu rays and dvds have a clear advantage over CDs. A good "bad example" is the Angel's Egg CD where a well defined and beautiful ending to the album is marred when the bonus track blasts in and destroys the mood the album has left you with.
Despite Dennis' good arguement for multiple discs for copying/backup purposes, I absolutely 100% prefer one disc (unless there's a serious technical issue).
Reasons: Less waste of materials. Less shelf space wasted (unless packaged in same size case). Having to change disc and having the macro flow broken.
Thoughts and suggestions: Most vinyl albums had side breaks and disc breaks for the obvious reason of physical limitations. Artists/producers programmed their music to fit within these limitations, sometimes creating distinct flows based around the limitations. Just as there's not 2 CDs for, let's say, Meddle or Close To The Edge, artistically designed "sides" can still work as a single flow if there's a little space included before "side two" (or "side three") begins, particularly if there's a hard entry. In special cases (ideally with the opinions of the artists requested) perhaps a "hard pause" could be authored into the disc with the listener required to press Enter or play to "Continue to Part B". Otherwise, including 5 to 10 seconds of silence could suffice if there was a well designed disc ending (like The Wall's side two).
BTW - I'm firmly against including bonus materials in the main program unless the artist thinks it's a great idea. This is where blu rays and dvds have a clear advantage over CDs. A good "bad example" is the Angel's Egg CD where a well defined and beautiful ending to the album is marred when the bonus track blasts in and destroys the mood the album has left you with.
