"This thread is a critique of various singing styles, particularly those of women singers - a perfectly valid exercise."

Yes. And I would certainly hope so Shimrod, especially on a folk discussion board! Though my OP was possibly too flippantly worded, as I have already said.

I thought Mrs Banjimans post there was insightful, and summed this up nicely: "The weak, breathy girly vocals were the first ones I began to listen to as they were the ones I was easily exposed to on Radio 2, on the main stages at festivals, etc. It is when you start going around to your local folk club that you realise that women who sing like that are in the minority!"