Is the art of the album gone?

The answer is yes. Pop music is no longer about any degree of musical talent, but completely about how the "artist" looks on the record cover and ads (just like local news is all about ratings and promoting the channel's programming rather than actually about news). Bands with ugly lead singers like Aerosmith (and too many "old" bands to count) wouldn't have a prayer these days (much the same as unattractive anchormen or women have no shot of getting on TV newscasts). This might change, of course, as the same could be said of pop music back in the 50's. Sure, Buddy Holly made it, but generally producers only wanted to promote heartthrobs like Elvis. The pendulum could swing again, but it will take awhile. This also requires some young people with talent , of course. IMHO, truly talented pop/rock bands aren't exactly numerous anyway.