I like Tony Monaco's playing...he's no Jimmy Smith, but, by gosh, he's pretty darn good.

"Melisma"...the word sounds like some sort of skin disease.

I think melisma works in some tunes (especially gospel, R&B and jazz), and I can tolerate it in pop tunes if used in moderation.

Many people put great store by technique. They love the tricks. Not surprising, especially if you are at an age and level that admires those kind of things - fast cars, showy playing/singing - two sides of the same coin.

But, some will have an awakening at some point. They admire great technique, but expect it to be in the service of a musical vision. Technique without musicality lacks soul.


Ian