There is something distressing about seeing entertainers age and lose their sharpness, voice, whatever. It kind of reminds all of us that, if we are lucky to live as long, the same fate awaits all of us.

Like so many who have posted above, I came to appreciate what is now called "folk" music through my father's recordings of The Kingston Trio and Peter, Paul and Mary. We also had several Burl Ives recordings, although its funny because I never considered him in the same genre - it just goes to show how broad the river of "folk" really is. I too have appreciated the overall kind comments. Reading folks bash the Trio or PP&M is kind of like having someone spit on your first grade teacher's grave. To those of us who were kids during the "revival", that is our "formative" music. That is not to disrespect those pioneers who made it possible for the Trio, but it is a matter of emphasis. That which influences us first, usually influences us the greatest.

I like the idea of a slight name change, keeping the identity of the primary group, but communicating that the legend can continue. Someone mentioned the New Christy Minstrels, and I am reminded of groups like Clearance Clearwater Revisited, vis. Revival. It really doesn't bother me that much with a group like the Kingston Trio, or even the Statler Bros. (who changed one group member before their retirement). But continuing a living heritage is what folk music is all about, right?

Freightdawg