Guys, I wasn't knocking the ability of country musicians to play other styles, I simply meant to say that country and bluegrass just isn't for me.

J.D. Crowe is a good friend...I still don't like bluegrass music. I've heard lots of studio guys who play country music and was never really impressed. For me, developing those chops was a waste of time. But again, that's just me.

"Dyed in the wool" jazz folks, I know, me included, just don't want to bother with what they consider "fluff".

The country folks I heard playing jazz had a level of competence and mastery of the instrument, but on a relatively low level in terms of improvisation, creativity on the fly, sophisticaton, etc. That's probably because of the massive number of hours learning the craft (you never finish learning), with little possibility of adequate financial rewards.

Between us, this is a difference of opinion....so what? It in NO WAY impacts the interaction, respect and sharing of knowledge and experience I look forward to each day.


All the best...


Let's keep on "pickin and grinnin".


Russ "Buck" Lay