"That Hangman song" that Tim Jacques refers to is in fact Leadbelly's "Gallow's Pole". It features some interesting banjo playing and is a fine example of a wonderful Folk song being introduced to several million young people who most likely would have never heard it otherwise. How many of them then went out and tried to find more material by the original artist? This may have even led to them broadening their musical horizons enough to eventually become Mudcatter's.

Mike Myers on Saturday Night Live had his famous "If it's Nae Scottish, It's Crap" Let's try to avoid this kind of thinking when it comes to music. For many years I have tried to give a chance to all kinds of music. My criteria for music is basically does it have soul or feel and would it sound good if it was being played at the kitchen table. Zeppelin's "Gallow's Pole", "Bron Y'aur Stomp" and "Hat's Off to Roy Harper" certainly meet my critertia.

Tim, you're right, Ian Anderson would have made a great folkie. I believe that Jethro Tull's sound is strongly rooted in English folk. Perhaps it's something that he may explore later.

Now, If anyone disagrees that rock and folk can mix, I will gladly send them a tape of me playing Black Sabbath's "War Pigs" on my five string banjo. It is after all a protest song.