I've been here since around 2000, and in the early days things could get a little lairy (and occasionally downright nasty). Mudcat is many things to many people, and I for one am grateful it's able to be like that.

When I think of some of the people I've learnt from, one or two have totally changed my mind about some things. Divis Sweeney, Malcolm Douglas, the performers who post, folk i play in sessions with . . . all appreciated. I used to love Isaac McKittery's Drumcree threads. I still enjoy the rough and tumble of debate and still learn from people. Many take the below the line stuff way to seriously; sometimes it's a barroom brawl, sometimes reasoned debate; at least it's discussion.

As for folk music . . . the second someone tries to define it they are missing the point in my opinion. It's a broad church and all the better for being so. From the old traddies, source singers, carriers of the tradition, singer-songwriters . . . to crossovers like the Mumfords (ducks). It's whatever you want it to be and it's wonderful.

Viva the Cat!