There seems to be a dichotomy here between the USA and Britain. In Britain there is a long, honourable, effective and ongoing tradition of left-wing protest, which is also an active part of folk music. Far from being mean-spirited, it is concerned with exposing and getting rid of oppression, greed, self-interest and indifference. The music is vibrant, enjoyable and often amusing. Many of the performers are in the mainstream of British folk music and their popularity is shown by their sell-out concerts and presence on the bill of just about every folk festival in the country.