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Re 17 I think the idea is that the solution has the same meaning with or without the first two letters (and that those letters often imply ‘again’)

Thanks Rog. Now you mention that about the goldfinches it does ring a distant bell.

I was held up by 17 because, to my mind, there are two possible answers and I had to wait for 3 down before I could choose.

I too was initially attracted to a different solution to 17, swarbrules (which would have involved an L in the 3d position) - but on reflection I didn’t think it quite fitted the clue.

I greatly enjoyed this, despite being completely out of touch with more recent instances of the theme. Curiously, it was the unusual terminal letters of 23a that set me on the right track - and also it was from my era of some interest in such matters.

I stumbled through this and finally completed, with some cheating (guessing bands from crossers and googling greatest hits). For a while, I was wrongfooted by the thematic numbered clues: I thought they'd link to performers in the grid, but no connection. A cleverly constructed crozzie, it must be said, not sure how much I enjoyed it, though.

Finally finished. Bit of a struggle but we finally made it!

Rogissimo

My problem was with the 6th letter. Try word wizard with a ? in the sixth position and two acceptable answers will appear.

I enjoyed this puzzle. I did find it a challenge, but I don't see that as detrimental. I was surprised when many of the themed answers did ring a bell. Chasing down the "goldfinches" helped me out when I started this week's Inquisitor.

I too enjoyed it. It depresses me when so many people rubbish it because the theme is not within their comfort zone. I’m very far from an expert, but I only needed to check two of the thematic clues. So thank you, Maskerade