I hate to disagree with Jeri, the truth is that many people here are interested in both. I also cannot see how anyone can separate, especially in blues and folk music, "serious" music from "serious" concerns about life and death. This music does not exist in a Platonic realm, nor, except at the most esoteric level, in mathematics textbooks. I want to know who these mysterious serious music people are, and what they are interested in? Modes? What Bill Broonzy thought about Igor Stravinsky? Counterpoint in bluegrass? The provenance of handbills in early 19th century Dublin?

We seem to be able to chat about these, if they interest people. I note that we have had many discussions recently that would not disgrace a folk seminar.

yours, Peter T.