ya know mank we we need to do is convene a group of like minded individuals and have a record shootout. where the people attending bring three newish records and present to those assembled. a quick blurb about why you like them and a couple choice tracks. i heard of other such groups having a good time sharing music this way.
i too find it daunting to wade through all that is new out there... pickup Magnet, CMJ, Mojo, etc and there are 30+ reviews to wade through. Bring back singles and 40 min records, know of this 70 of one good song and the rest filler.