Tempo Flag, I used to watck Rose Maddox sing to many pick up bands and she always had her hand behind her back showing the band the beat.Like slapping her hip but they usually stayed on the beat. I've talked to several pickers who backed her up and they all agreed that she had high standards and would not tolerate mistakes.
Wyoming folks should be able to pack a six shooter, that would keep the band on their toes.The band wiyh experience will stay with you as long as you don't stray to far away from the phrasing and keep a desent tempo..
Good luck with the new gig.
Mudjack