I agree that too many sides rely on drums and drown out other instruments. However, that can easily be rectified without resorting to PA. I used to accompany a North West side on five string banjo and was often the only musician there. I could play pretty loud in those days.
I also enjoyed Sweeps but was somewhat restricted in what I could see because of car problem. Thanks RAC. Bit disappointed by the lower than usual numbers in the Good Intent.