To be honest I am finding series 4 a bit disappointing compared to previous series. Yes, it's still one of the few "must-see" bits of TV in the week but there are a few niggles for me this time.

- Why is there so much piano? I know they have always had the piano in but personally I find it completely unnecessary for an acoustic session. And this series, the piano seems to be included within practically every tune/song - stomping all over the quieter instruments in the mix

- Ditto with drums, although this is not so intrusive and I have to admit that the percussionist (forget his name) does play with taste and sensitivity - but again, why is this needed on practically every song? Acoustic sessions don't normally have a drummer...?

- Disappointed with the contributions of some of the guests. I also thought Martha Wainwright was dreadful, OK she is not my cup of tea but I also thought it was partly that the songs she brought did not fit well with the essence of the programme. One of the James Taylor songs was also very disappointing. I thought that Alison Moorer was excellent though

- My tastes are more to the American/bluegrass side (although I very much enjoy the Celtic tunes too)and hence I was particularly looking forward to the contributions by Dan Tyminski and Stuart Duncan. Dan is pure quality but why use one of his precious appearances to do Man of Constant Sorrow - AGAIN? That song is already out there on several DVDs - why not get a performance of a song from his fantastic recent CD "Wheels" for instance? I just feel that that is a bit like the equivalent of always playing a greatest hit or a Stairway to Heaven - boring and a wasted opportunity!

- Even more than with other series, the Celtic element seems to include a massive proportion of songs sung in Gaelic. Is it really necessary to have so many? I appreciate it is a part of the Scottish culture but I am sceptical as to how common it usually is to sing songs in Gaelic in Celtic sessions?!

I also think the new venue looks dark and dingy compared to TS3 and I can't believe that the sound can be better given all those bare stone walls......

All my humble opinion you understand. Notwithstanding the above rant - yes, it is still one of the best things on telly and is a joy to experience the musical talents of such giants as Michael McGoldrick, Aly Bain, Jerry D, etc etc etc as well as the guests. Just don't think it has been as good as TS3...episode 4 has been best for me so far though! Enough of this chuntering!

TC