" ... if those opinions are only meant to be positive ones, we end up with the sort of sychophantic stuff that we get in CD reviews in most of the folk media."

" ... but as soon as you start putting out the hype and taking the money, you have to expect all sorts of critique. This is life, and this is how it should be."

I agree absolutely with both of those statements, Steve. As someone with a long-term interest in folk song I don't see myself as an infantile, sycophantic 'fan'. If I'm asked to give my opinion on a particular artist I'll tell you if I like their work or don't like their work and I'll try to give you reasons why I like their work or don't like their work.

I can assure you that these criticisms will always be on artistic/aesthetic grounds. I believe that as a member of the artist's audience I am fully entitled to express such views (in an appropriate context, of course).

Some people, in this forum, seem to be unable to distinguish between valid criticism and 'catty' personal remarks and expressions of jealousy. I think that it's completely unacceptable to 'begrudge' an artist's 'success' - even if you don't particularly like their work. I think that people who can't make such a distinction need to grow up!