Slight thread creep somewhat, but I love "For Pence and Spicy Ale". I particularly like the Apple-Tree Wassail and have been annoying my folks by going around the house singing it at the top of my voice (I'm no Waterson, unfortunately!) I really appreciate the fact that the Topic reissue included the Mike Waterson recording of "The Seven Yellow Gypsies" --bloody unbelievable. Shivers crawled up and down my spine when I heard it, and I nearly dropped the cup of tea I was holding. Far and away the BEST version I've heard, and it's a pretty common ballad. Anyone else have the same reaction? I would like to hear the Watersons doing anything, basically, as long as they record something!

Speaking of folk clubs, I couldn't bear the smoke on the go in the old ones either. It would be absolutely great if folk clubs could all go smoke-free --anybody know if there are any plans for this? Quite apart from anything else, breathing in all that smoke is bad for the vocal chords of non-smokers as well as for smokers.

I don't have "Frost and Fire" yet. I'm still trying to get my mitts on it, though. It's one of the few major gaps in my record collection. Another gap will be filled when Anglicana comes in!! Cheers, Eliza, and good luck with the album (and the Dreams of Breathing Underwater thing) from a demented fan!

Love,

Isabel