As ever WLD hits nails on heads, but I take a more optimistic view based on my experiences in recent years. The power base of many clubs has changed and my general impression is they have become/are becoming more inclusive and supporting a wider base of what is accepted as "folk/acoustic music". OK - so there will be those who would like to see more people "upholding the tradition" but they are having to accept the reality of the situation.

Folk music and folk/acoustic music clubs are thriving, and they provide venues for folk of all types to go and get their own particular fix. Though many don't like it, they are able to "uphold the tradition" by way of the fact that there are others (in significant numbers) who support the venues by both playing and listening to wider forms of music; without them the clubs would die a death - and I suspect that in their hearts they know this, but use this forum to indulge in a little harmless moaning. This is a great site and provides therapy for many.

WLD has maybe had a rough ride along the way - sounds like his music does not fall neatly into the "folk tradition", but maybe he has been going to the wrong venues. One club I love is the Bay Folk Club in Robin Hood's Bay - this is probably quite heavily biased towards traditional (there are a good number of locals who sing very traditional songs) but I never get the feeling they don't appreciate a wider brand of music. It's a very well run club, and there's always a great atmosphere.

The Whitby festival will be with us soon - you can certainly get whatever form of "folk" music you want there. WLD said he'd never go to the festival again (not since the 70's) which is a shame because his music would be very welcome in the pubs where I go.