Thanks Lizzie loved Smerkinmerkins as well. I have a couple of middle period Edward II and have since really enjoyed them and The Afro Celts.

What I think Paddyrasta and Smerkinmerkins retain is a sense that this is related to old tunes and could be easily heard, played and enjoyed in pubs and folk clubs anywhere. They also do what Edward II or E2R and the Afro Celts do which is to treat the roots they draw on with respect along with a good chunk of creativity.