I think I've figured out why everybody (including me) likes Don's work. Everybody (including maybe Don) is going to hate me (nothing new there ) for saying this but; none of Don's stuff sounds like it's an arranger backing. It's probably the most authentic-sounding accompaniment heard on this board. Two other things; 1. 'licks', including solos, that do such a great job of emulating both tone and playing technique (especially guitar), and 2. timing. This is SO, SO important and it's mostly a 'feel' thing. Arrangers are very precise and to keep them from sounding 'robotic' (as Donny says), YOU have to supply the syncopation or little variations in tempo/timing that makes it sound LIVE. BTW, this also applies to playing to drum machines, although some have what's called a 'swing' setting which artificially does the same thing, just not as well. Here's a clue though, if you don't 'feel' it, don't do it. Nothing sounds worse than faked/forced syncopation. Anyhow, that's a really long-winded and roundabout way of saying I really liked it (as I do with most all of Don's work, and I am not even a big Country fan - except Willie, of course ). I think for me, it's because it sounds so 'professional' and I like all kinds of music IF IT'S DONE WELL.

Nice job Don, and I rarely say that unless I mean it.

chas