Thanks Kendall. This (thread) is a subject near and dear to my heart. I don't think there's anything that drives me quite as nuts as watching musicians destroy a song by overplaying. It's one of the reasons that I often get surprised looks when I compliment someone on their playing, and they're so used to equating "Good" with "fancy". A great guitarist is one who plays with solid rhythm and good chords. A great lead guitarist is one who fills the "holes".

My rule of thumb is that when a "story" song is being performed, you don't mess with the "story". If it's a dance tune (breakdown, reel etc.) you can have fun with the leads.

Rick (MUCH more of a curmudgeon OFF Mudcat, than on)