I talked with a bluegrass guitar player once who just smoked that 'ol fingerboard and asked him for any tips on playing fast. He said he uses a heavy pick and holds it so only the tip shows. That way he transfered all the energy (speed) to the string and didn't loose it to the bending of the pick. Also, you might try turning the pick slightly sideways, you sorta slip on to the next string. And make sure your guitar is set up as well as it can be. Oh yeah, all that practicing helps too. Good luck. Tom (who listened to too much McLaughlin and DeMeola growing up)