Things change, don't they. When I first found Mudcat, I thought it would be all blues, but it wasn't, and then some of it was a bit incomprehensible because I didn't know the artists, and some was incomprehensible because the thread was headed "Punch the Horse.....", but what I've really come to value is the cosmopolitan nature of the place. If I need technical help, it often comes from Kansas (thanks, John), if I need words, from Japan (how is that for incongruity! And scholarship) And fellowship from anywhere in the world.

It would be easier for Americans than Britons to become parochial, because of the difference in journey times. When I lived in the English midlands, there was seldom a evening without a folk-club available, and at weekends, perhaps 7 or 8 within 30 miles/1 hour's driving. But that was in the 60/70's.

There are Americans who include English Trad in their repertoire, and a very good fist they make of it too, with an unusual take on language. "He stood on the corner with a fag in his mouth,,,,"

Just random thoughts.   Chris.