Originally Posted by: zreynoldspMalmsteen enjoys over-technical guitar playing for it's own sake, and is very egotistical - at least that's what comes across ininterviews etc.

Yeah dude, thats the only thing I dont like about Malmsteen, Not really egotistical but his being tactless for dissing out other guitar players like Beck and Clapton, one comment was how these players were not bending their notes to pitch, etc. He is a hard to impress player, he dont hesitate to comment on other players music even in Interviews. But sometimes he also praise musicians whom he feels suited his taste like Ritchie Blackmore and Allan Holdsworth. I think thats the reason why some people hate him. Its because of his attitude.

In fairness to him, I really admire his playing especially his technique. I think he is better to be watched than to be listened. After watching his videos especially the latest "Play loud series" I cant help but be amaze of that flawless picking, very clear and precise even distorted, you can see it clearly when close up, better than Michael Angelo's Speed Kills and Rusty Coley's Chops from hell. And it really helps me improve my technique. No wonder Steve himself acknowledge Yngwie's talent.
[IMG] Although technique is important, in the end music is what matters most. And this is were Steve Vai stands out. But I admire them both. Steve for his music and Yngwie for technique, we should appreciate the best of both worlds and apply it in our playing......By the way the two were best friends. Hehe. Peace and Love to all Shredders. Rock On!!! :)