What an interesting read!
I agree with and practice the idea that music is a very personal experience so a pair of headphones would do to enjoy your favorite tunes. Still, I'm no stranger to blasting music (loudly enough without having the neighbors complain) when alone in the apartment and just dancing to it. This, however, would be a song with a solid bass line, and good drums - whatever keeps the beat going! The genre may vary, but I've noticed that songs with good, regular beats keep me in a good mood.
Another thing is listening to music outside on my phone (and once upon a time on my MP3 player). Headphones rule here, but the smaller the better (earbuds are a definite YES for me). There are days when I can walk (at least halfway) to or from work, so I'd put on some songs with good regular beats that can put a spring to my step and that set up the pace of my walk.
As for whole albums, I'll give an album a whirl once or twice, but I'll definitely have favorites by the third listen, so I'll start skipping songs. An exception to this would be those Greatest Hits compilations, where I'd rarely skip a song. Regarding how long I'd listen to an album, that really depends on my mood. I haven't noticed that I have a time limit in mind, but if I like it, I would listen to it any chance I get (mood permitting).
I'm a sucker for cover versions, especially ones done will fewer instruments than the original, or in a change of style (think PostModern Jukebox), or just anything that makes the meaning of the song different somehow (think 'Jolene' sung by Jack White).
Thanks again, @holoz0r, for the fun article, it made me think about how I listen to music, and I might rework this comment into a longer post (posts even?)
Have an awesome day
RE: How do you listen to music?