Bit of a mixed bag this year. The guest/concert line-up in the program this year seemed a bit thin of headline talent even before Norma Waterson & Martin Carthy cried off & did not perform (as did a few others). There's a new venue called "the Cause" in use. It's a converted methodist chapel who's accoustics are amazing. There were a trio called the Tabbush Sisters singing in there, accapella style, if you get the chance go listen to them - they have an amazing clear liquid gold tone. Imagine Karen Carpenter x3 with a northern accent harmonising with herself. There were some good afterhours mixed sessions in the shower block on campsite 3, with some very talented youngsters. They make it look so easy I'm torn between feeling totally outclassed and reassured that folkmusic definitly has a future. We introduced the landlord of the Three Crowns to the idea that if you play host to folkies you need lots of real ale. As there wasn't any official evening singarounds (the closest was "folk club with guest artists") we invaded his pub for unofficial sessions. By the time we'd finished all he had left was "John Smiths" or larger.
The Aquaili (ceilie in a swimming pool) was as usual suitably fun and exhausting - rather like the festival itself. There were a number of other catters about such as "Gomez" and "Alanww", so no doubt when they get round to it they'll have their own view/comments on the festival. Cheers Jude