Thanks Charlie, I think you are onto something. Some songs are most effective when one person sings them unaccompanied. Having the song arranged for any number of instruments spoils it for me.

I need to say that my base line is simple - do I like it - does it do something for me.

I have heard some great jigs and reels played on a whistle and a Bodhran and that is spot on. I have some tunes played with dozens of people but it adds nothing. This summer I heard Bellowhead, Peatbog Faries and Salsa Celtica and I really enjoyed them all. I heard some pretty impressive songs groups - Crucible for one great songs, great arrangements.

But somewhere I feel their is a beauty and simplicity that first attrcated me to folk music that can easily be lost.