This has been an interesting thread to read, as I hope to see the films, that my daughter has recorded, on my upcoming trip back home to the UK.
I have always enjoyed Fairport and have very good friends in the band and I used to live locally, which I maybe why I like them certainly more than Steeleye Span - but that is because I have always disliked Maddy Prior's singing!! Again personal tastes!!

I am however surprised at the negativity by some regarding Richard Thompson's guitar playing, which I consider sublime. If you are not convinced by listening to early Fairport or even his own recordings, can I suggest you listen to a recording called - Bones of All Men, by Phil Pickett. RT plays guitar on this and it is superb.

see: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Bones_of_All_Men

Please note - I do not criticize others personal tastes - Folk Music is a broad church, thank goodness.

Tim Radford