A few years ago, my wife and I spent a week in Madeira (a Portuguese island well off the coast of Africa, for the geographically challenged!). Around midweek, we found a small bar in Funchal, the capital, which had regular 'fado' sessions. The first, midweek session we attended was fairly quiet, with the owner's family and a resident (Portuguese) guitarist playing. On the Saturday night, however, it was very different. The family still kept the continuity but every so often, an individual or group would arrive in, sing a song or two, have a drink or two and a chat - then head off somewhere else. This kept up till "closing time" (1 a.m. or so?) when the blinds were drawn and the session kept on till ofter 3! Wonderful music, wonderful people and just great fun! Great, appreciative attention during performances and cheerful chaos in between.

Regards