Personally, I think that term describes the sort of music very well, and is
a lot more accurate description of it than, say, Acid Jazz.
I use labels of music very much. I don't go to clubs often, there are no
radio stations around here that play the sort of music I like, and I have no
friends who like what I like, so, the only ways I have of coming into
contact with this music is through magazine reviews, and lists like this one.
If I see the term trip-hop (or trance, or house, or garage) used, then I
know there's a pretty good chance that I would like it, and I continue to
read. If I see the term hardcore (or commercial, or ambient) I know there's
a fair chance that I *won't* like it, and so often move on.
I also like blues music, and if I see the term 'Chicago blues' I move on,
whereas, if it is described as 'Delta Blues' I read with much interest.
I find all these labels, terms, groups and sub-groups to be a very useful
tool, and think the more of them the better.
I seem to recall that it wasn't all that long ago that the term 'Acid Jazz'
was in the same boat as trip-hop is now, and a lot of people thought it
wasn't a suitable name for this style of music.
Can anyone give me any reasons as to *why* the term trip-hop is viewed as an
unsuitable name?
Marc.