The only version of Mary Ellen Carter that I like is the original on Between The Breaks Live. I've never heard a cover of a Stan Rogers song, live or recorded, that was as good as the original. (I detest the two "Tribute" CD's -- gave them both away, in fact.) I think that it is because so many of the people who cover him have such whiny whingey voices, and he had a deep booming voice.

But you're right. The pub acts always seem to cover that one, and Barrett's Privateers.

James Taylor seems to be a favourite with street buskers. I don't consider him a folk singer. More soft pop, and if we are going to get into that realm then the list of annoying artists is a long one. Fire and Rain isn't a bad song, though, nor is the one about going to Carolina. Just played too much.

We are agreed on Neil Young. I have a friend who worships him and it is torture to my ears to listen to any of Young's recordings.

An act I could never stomach was the Clancys, but I realize that I am in the minority there. The Clancys have a lot to answer for, because it was them who inspired the singing of such songs in pubs.

Nor have I ever liked Great Big Sea.