I love 'em. I find some singarounds and sessions a bit dull..... especially where the "residents" or others use them in lieu of being able to get paid work (often, because they're not good enough). Having said that others are great (I like Exelby Folk Club in North Yorks..... a pretty much sing anything club but as the organiser does almost exclusively trad, so do lots of other people. 3 pretty much full length ballads, all performed excellently, from differing performers last Monday as an added bonus).

But what I really enjoy seeing (and organising)are small, intimate concerts with excellent performers. There can be something very magical about a quality performer (they don't have to be famous or hyped) being given the space of 2 good length sets in an intimate venue to really express themselves. This can be in a pub, house or village hall but need a listening audience who aren't just waiting for their turn to perform. I'm very happy passively listening if the performer and atmosphere are "right".

......and what I really hate is the attitude of some "performers" who will go to clubs where they can sing and are happy enough to take bookings from others but then come on Mudcat and slag off folk clubs.