"It does seem, sir, that we do push each others buttons. So be it. It is simply enough for me to realize how right-on I am -- and conversely, how w..ng you are. Fascinatingly, I managed to say that without a single f-word."

Art, I meant no disrespect to you. Having a differing point of view on what constitutes "a tradition" is not a call to arms. This isn't a case of "right" or "wrong" - it is simply interpretation. I find the limiting borderlines that were somehow handed down 50 or 60 years ago as if written on slates from the hand of God are simply being taken too literally. They fail to recognize that communities and technologies evolve.

It may be a case that we simply aren't understanding each others point of view. I may be wrong, but I think we are both in agreement about Andy's showcases and the importance of carrying on the tradition. Contemporary singer-songwriters are doing themselves a disservice if they fail to learn from the songbag of our heritage.

Where you and I differ is in recognizing the way those traditions have evolved since the days of the folk revival.