How we consume music. Or is it just me?

I don't think that's your imagination, I think it's your taste in production - a highly subjective thing of course (not that I'm not saying those albums aren't well produced!).

What is good production? Is it raw or polished?

They aren't my absolute favourite albums per se (although they are pretty close) but I just find them a realistic, soulful and genuine representation of the bands... Maybe it's my imagination?