Generally speaking, so-called 'cutting edge' alternative bands are the ones who've de-emphasized or have dismissed altogether rock 'n roll's centerpiece instrument, the guitar. What's yer position on this trend?

I've had limited success finding bands who've diss'ed the guitar. The Arcade Fire, the Dresden Dolls yeah. Sigur Ros, Spiritualized no. The Fiery Furnaces are alright 'n everything, but they remind me more of a Broadway musical than rock 'n roll, y'a know? I guess when it's all said and done, underneath this cool, hip exterior of mine I prefer Aerosmith's Draw the Line to the Flaming Lips Pink Robot's Do You Realize.

I'm worried because I've always been on the hip side of things. Now, in my old age I'm wondering how far away I am from brushed leather jackets with fringes and buying Time Life videos of Woodstock off infomercials. I used to think Robert Smith's goth get-up was really cool, and now I'm thinking Robert's a bit old to be sporting lipstick. I've alreading been sounding like my parents on Bowie when I talk about rap-crap and Good Charlottes/Blink 182s/The Used/Chevelle's/Yellowcard/etc/etc.

I'm closer to being a senior citizen than some of ya's are to having a legal drink. Should I just drown myself in self-pity or can I still hold my head up with respect listening to old Pavement records?