I love Garrison - the Writer's Almanac and Guy Noir especially. The cowboys too.

As to the singing, he has a church choir voice. He is brave, I'll say that. As was sung by Levon Helm once upon a time...

"Can't Take The Way He Sings, But I Love To Hear Him Talk"

I think the audience is so square they think it's ok. I recall when he had some blues revue performing - the audience was very definitely clapping on 1 and 3. All of them, nuff said.