The entertainment press is thick with sociological theories about why new music from "veteran" artists like Bob Seger, The Who, Rod Stewart and Bob Dylan is proving to be commercially successful.
Perhaps this is way too obvious, but could it be that it's a simple matter of merit? Could it just be that it's commercially successful because it is good music from talented artists, irrespective of their ages and chart histories?
This has been a good year for fans of several classic rock stalwarts, as evidenced by our list of the Top New Releases From "Old" Artists in 2006.
1. Bob Seger - Face the Promise
After an 11 year hiatus, Seger proved his staying power by releasing some of the best work of his career. His voice and his songwriting are as strong as they were when he hit the charts in 1969.2. The Who - Endless Wire
The Who of 2006 may not be the same group that produced classics like Tommy and My Generation but Pete Townshend and Roger Daltrey have shown us that they are still capable of delivering some distinctive and memorable rock music.
3. Bob Dylan - Modern Times
At 65, Dylan's creative energy is as strong as it was 44 years and 50 albums ago. He wears maturity well.
4. Meat Loaf - Bat Out of Hell III: The Monster Is Loose
Like the previous two installments in the series -- the first two coming in 1977 and 1993 -- reviewers either praised it or panned it. The music buying public kept it on the charts for several weeks.