I tend to agree with most of your post Martin, however Bob Haworth first joined the group in 1985, left after three years, and returned in 1999 when Nick Reynolds retired. George Grove has been with the group since 1976. That is longer service than the orignal trio put in (4 years - Dave Guard left in 1961 which was the first of numerous lineup changes.) If the public is "duped", they have been duped sinced 1961. I don't think most people expect the original three members when they see the group.

Yes, you are right, none of the original Trio remains with Shane out of the lineup, but the sound and spirit is what ultimately draws the fans.   Frankly, I saw them last year (with Shane) and I felt that they did not have the same energy that the original trio had, but it was an enjoyable evening by a group of entertainers.

The other "fact" of life, the Kingston Trio has bookings in place that they need to honor.

I also checked a posting from Bob Shane on a fan website, and he has said that he hopes to return to the lineup. We shall see.

I wish him a quick and speedy recovery. The Kingston Trio has taken their lumps over the years, and I do feel that their contribution to ENTERTAINMENT AND FOLK MUSIC is the reason why websites like Mudcat exist.   If it weren't for the commercial interest that developed, we may not have had a folk revival.