No you don't always need the latest gear, we know it's the musician not the gear. I will admit it is fun to have some of the latest gea but not necessary. I've probably written this before the men on my dad's side of the family died young dad was 64 and my cousin who was the brother I never had died at 49. I've made it to 67 and if it's in the budget I'll buy it. I don't know what tomorrow will bring, make the best of today is my way of thinking.

Alan Pike is terrific I've seen his videos some years ago, always top notch. I'd love to be able to play like he does.