Maybe, if you have only heard someone the one time your views are from that performance only, and maybe that particular performance was under par?

I have only ever seen Martin Carthy once at Gainsborough Festival "Trinity Arts Centre". All he seemed to do is tune his guitar, once tuned he played and sang as if to be unhappy "with the guitar and performance".

In the foyer after the performance I did hear people say it was rubbish. I did hear that afterwards Martin did in fact realise this himself and offered to do the performance free of charge, he told the organisers that the guitar was brand new and would not stay in tune even for one song. I bet Martin can remember that day.

So personally I came away disappointed because I had heard how fantastic he was and I was expecting something exceptional. I could actually say that Martin Carthy is rubbish in my opinion from his performance on that day. However, knowing the consequences I suppose I should make the effort to see him again.

I'm sure professional musicians can rise above such comments, people should also be allowed to view their opinions if they have paid good money to see them but weren't happy with their performance. It is their view that differs to yours. So be it!

Or am I barking up the wrong tree?