Rather than the elitist prick vs the moshing idiots argument, I think it all boils down to what characteristics you look for in music. Some people are very groove and riff oriented and prefer to listen to thrash or something that would be fun to mosh to (ie catchy). Sometimes these people are also focused on good rhythm as well. The people at the other end of the spectrum prefer atmosphere and musical composition over rhythms and riffs. These listeners may prefer death and black metal and tend to appreciate the execution of the idea moreso than the actual rhythm/riff/melody. Though of course interesting melody/riffs are needed, but they are of secondary importance when looking at the overall composition of the album.
Now of course im referring to these two positions as a spectrum, so it doesnt mean that you need to fall on one side or the other. I myself am more critical of composition and execution than I am of the riff/groove, but it really depends on the mood im in. It may even depend on the environment im in (ie. party, car to/from work, headphone listen after a bowl, etc).
Sometimes I find more thrashy/groove oriented metal to be lacking in content, and other times I find it so enticing that I cant stop listening to it. Likewise, im not always in the mood to appreciate something atmospheric and conceptual like Dark Tribe.
I understand the inherent elitism behind the more conceptual listeners, who either feel like they connect with the atmosphere of the musical composition or those that think they need to be intelligent to understand the technical aspects of tech death or the theory behind prog composition; Versus those who latch on the the concept of a good riff or a "headbangable" rhythm. And while I disagree with this elitist mindset, I certainly do recognize that a good quality listen involves more than the acknowledgment of a catchy riff and requires further understanding of the musical composition to "properly" appreciate the work of art that the musicians put their efforts into composing.
It also seems like there is a resentment of some sorts going on; The more "shallow" heavy music tends to gain more commercial success than the bands who want to express their ideas and possibly innovative concepts in the form of a less accessible form of music. It may not denote music of a higher quality, but lets face it: Some bands exist simply to thrash out and/or make a living with their music, which translates to more accessible music, more fans, and more $$.
I need to re-think my life.
