I absolutely agree with what you're saying here. To sum it I would say technique should not be an end in itself wouldn't you agree. Rather it should be the means to an end. The tough part is trying to decode a person's intent. Gambale for example. I'm inclined to agree with you that the technique came first and that it dictated what he did. To me his sweeping, while amazing, sounds rediculous at times. zip zip zip zap up and down.

but my playing could elicit the same reaction I suppose.

I had a definite sound in my head before I had the technique to pull it off. It was a bizarre combination of Vernon Reid, Buckethead, Eric Dolphy, Coltrane, and a few others that I wanted to synthesize. In the pursuit I found a new way of sweeping. But to someone just passing by I fear it sounds like the technique is being made the central focus when it is not.

With Yngwie, even though I am no fan of his, I might give him the benefit of the doubt that he was tyring to let the substance drive the technique...but you never know.

yours,
b