While I agree on the vocal tone, just about everything falls into the "what makes this matter more to me" category. I happen to like things from both Snow Patrol and Coldplay, for instance.

I think with me that the various factors all depend on my taste, not necessarily talent. Because, honestly, I could care less how awesome the notes are that Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, or Christina Aguilera can hit, etc. I look for the sound, the meaning, the flow, and, well, everything.

All of it is relative, though. It means different things to different people. ;-)