Scott Alarik wrote quite a long piece about the "folk wars" (so-called in the headline) between the tradoisie and the singer/songwriters for the Boston Globe, Sunday, June 27. This was a timely item regarding the upcoming SummerFest at New Bedford which featured performers from both genres. One did note, of course, that the main stage was often the venue for the "stars" of the s/s world, while traddies held forth in primarily workshop areas, but frequently with a mix of both camps taking part. It was fun. Kate Campbell sang a couple of her own songs in a workshop of songs about/from old times. They fit in very nicely.

So let's don't call it a war, Scott. It ain't, really. I like songs by Utah Phillips, Craig Johnson, Bob Coltman, Jerry Rasmussen, and others who are, like these, deeply rooted in the style of traditional songs. When their stuff is included in "s/s" listings, I realize that Caroline and I are now doing about 50% new songs in our programs. I guess I'm a-straddle the fence, like Don, who appreciates Grant Rogers as much as I do. Of course, I recorded Grant for Folk-Legacy, so I'm unable to offer a disclaimer!

Sandy