Meaning: Evan Parker's quote touches on the concept of mass market appeal in the music industry and the difference between mainstream commercial music and more niche or specialized genres. The quote implies that while popular artists like Madonna can release a new album and have it reach a global audience almost instantly, the same level of exposure and accessibility is not guaranteed for musicians working in more specialized or avant-garde genres.

Parker's reference to Madonna, a globally recognized pop icon, serves to illustrate the stark contrast between mainstream commercial music and the more underground or experimental music that he and many other artists are associated with. Madonna's widespread fame and commercial success allow her music to reach a vast audience, transcending geographical and cultural boundaries. In contrast, artists like Parker operate within a more limited sphere, where their work may not enjoy the same level of mass market appeal and accessibility.

The quote also highlights the challenges faced by musicians operating outside the mainstream music industry. While Madonna's new album can be readily available for purchase and consumption across the world, Parker suggests that the same level of accessibility is not guaranteed for non-mainstream music. This raises important questions about the distribution and promotion of niche or experimental music, and the barriers that may exist for audiences seeking to engage with such work.

Parker's use of the phrase "our stuff" suggests a sense of community or shared experience among musicians who operate within non-mainstream genres. This may refer to a sense of solidarity and shared struggle in navigating an industry that often prioritizes commercial success and mass appeal. The quote serves as a reminder of the diversity within the music industry and the different pathways that artists may take in creating and sharing their work.

Moreover, Parker's mention of Bangkok and Birmingham underscores the global reach of mainstream music and the contrast with more localized or specialized music scenes. While Madonna's new release can quickly reach listeners in diverse locations, the same level of exposure and accessibility may not be achievable for artists like Parker, whose work may be more regionally or subculturally specific.

In conclusion, Evan Parker's quote captures the disparity between mainstream commercial music and more niche or specialized genres in the music industry. It sheds light on the challenges faced by non-mainstream artists in terms of reaching a wider audience and gaining visibility in a market dominated by commercial interests. The quote serves as a thought-provoking commentary on the dynamics of the music industry and the varied experiences of musicians operating within different genres and spheres of influence.