Ah, now this is interesting.
On the Thorn Raven with CSS reinforced rims the rear is as sweet as a nut, good stopping even in the wet. Thorn say such rims sometimes lose braking power when very well used (as are mine) and in the wet (of which, sadly, my trips seem to have suffered an overabundance recently). No such loss of braking power seems to occur either in front or back, in wet or dry, no matter how loaded.
The front - same age, same conditions, same age of pads - screeches like a Banshee at the slightest pressure. This is sometimes welcome because it, as
@kimble says, warns pedestrians. Sadly it also warns Spanish dogs of my imminent arrival on their territory. *unlike*
Any suggestions?