You know, I'm glad that there is a public forum such as Mudcat for people to speak their mind. I agree with Spaw that you can't change anyone's mind (only they can do that). But I think that it's OK for people to vent on musical or non-musical subjects but it's better to present clearly articulated ideas in a rational manner.

As for music or non-musical threads, I don't know how a person can really separate the two. You can decided to edit a lot but I think you lose a lot in the process. My musical interests are closely aligned to my values and beliefs and this is what keeps me in the game. I think this may be true for many musical folks.

I like the rough and tumble Mudcat...like rolling around in it occasionally and if the thread gets too nutty, Max or someone usually has the good sense to bring it to an end...particularly if it gets repetitive and boring.

Long live Mudcat and the free-for-alls! It's part of the folk process.

Frank Hamilton