Dave Lampson worte that the Kronos Quartet's appeal has not increased
interest in classical music and Don Satz agreed, saying it has only
increased the number of Kronos-wannabe groups.

I'm not sure that I mean this as a "defense" of Kronos, but I can hardly
imagine that expanding interest in traditional CM is even an important goal
of the Kronos.  Their persona is shamelessly self-promoting, but most of
that promotion has to do with their notion of "expanding the repertoire"
and "rethinking the boundaries of the string quartet."  (...and generally
being cool and modern.)

Am I being too provocative to suggest that the whole issue is just
something brought up by people who don't care much for them (for their
music, their 'vulgarity,' or whatever other reason), but are looking for an
excuse not to dismiss them?

Still in the camp that enjoys them, even if they did make Purple Haze seem
long at 3 minutes,

P.S.  Thanks to all for the great 'modern chamber works' suggestion posts.

William