Don't really get where you're coming from here, I cited the Lovemasters as a great cheap record-yes it has been around for ages-the Del Larks for example has probably been known a lot longer.
However, I find it to be a sad commentary on the current state of affairs that just because somebody has decided that it's worthy of play it will "Go Big".
Unfortunately, you are probably correct-it ain't always what's being played, it's who's playing it.
Regards
Tony