With all these lists, I am glad I have access to something like Rhapsody (iTunes, whatever u use...) so I can listen to the type of music a group plays. If I like the music, then I will buy the whole album. Too many times I hear from people who bought what was reported as a great sounding album, only to not like the music. Buy what you like!!!!
I do that for these lists, or reviews in publications like ToneAudio, Stereophile, etc. Great way to learn about new music.