For those that do not know, i.e. those that are younger and not expected to be as wise as me (Kat).

Rory MaCleod is probably the finest 'gob iron' player I have seen, a great live performer and a man.
Rory Block is a blues guitarist/singer and a woman.

A word for John Denver. I used to think he was a bit 'naff' but I went to see him play live in the UK, a few years before he died and he was great. Worked hard, put on a good show, his voice was so strong and the backing band was first rate.

I know that these kinds of thread are useful in giving the usually polite and restrained Mudcatter's a chance to 'vent spleen' but I think that all the performers mentioned here (except of course the dead ones) should only really be judged on a live performance and be given the benefit of the doubt until we have the chance to see them play live.

On that subject, I heard a live CD of Christy Moore today and I still remain to be convinced.