the way there, Bryn. Folk music is just so much more varied (and so much more fun) since the 60s. Last year at Beverley the three headline acts were New Model Army, Bellowhead and Seth Lakeman, all of whom were brilliant, but it caused a bit of a moan from some of the traditionalists (especially NMA - who I love). Oysterband are still just amazing - saw them doing an acoustic set at Pocklington recently, a small venue where the atmosphere was electric. Then there are sensational young groups like Mawkin who I seem to see everywhere - and some great but almost unknown singer/songwriters like Dan Webster from York. I could spend a fortune on CDs if I was allowed. Just thinking about booking to see Dragonforce at Leeds Uni in October, with my 17-year old lad. When I was in my teens I was told I ought to sing folk songs cos I sound like a folk singer. The idea made my flesh creep. I was heavily into The Monkees, Beatles then progressed into progressive rock and blues, John Mayall, Chicken Shack, Steve Hillage, Pink Floyd,Genesis... (we're talking mis-spent youth here) but as time has passed and I 'cleaned up my act') the easiest stage to get on to is a folk club/singaround/open mic stage, so here I am. I like the songs with stories to tell,and the way trad songs convey history, so it suits me. Mind you given half a chance I lapse into blues and