Hello Mike!
You are not an isolated incident. And I am thinking it may be harder for us "aged" learners to pickup on this. As you know I play with a group and timing is something that is a challenge, not just for me. Sometimes we "wander about..." and there is no guarantee that we will all cross the finish line at the same time which can be a bit funny.
So yes, I think we all need to work on it, as I do, but even when I tell myself to concentrate, I sometimes end up wandering off at some point in the song and then have to try and place myself again.
This is one reason I like some of the George Straight and Hank III tunes. 3 chords and steady tempos. I will usually play Country Heros a few times a week just to remind myself, yeah I can play this thing - at least at some level.
Learning Time from Dark Side of the Moon - bass parts - was the hardest song for me to learn yet and I still struggle with it when we play it. If I want to play it I have to practice it again until I get his timing correct.
Bill
Bill, always great to get your perspective! As we have discussed many times it’s all a matter being diligent, stubborn and willing to adjust when things aren’t working. Enjoy that beautiful Les Paul Gold Top and keep on rocking!
Long Live Rock!