I've been using real tracks since they first came out to build all of my backup tracks for live performance. I am currently on version 2012, about to install 2012.5. Usually, I either pick an all real tracks style that is somewhat close to what I want, and then change the instrument/performer on specific tracks to create a backup "band" that gives me the effect I want for that tune. Occasionally I have started with a specific midi style and then changed specific tracks to the real tracks intrument/performer as needed. However, I have noticed that when I start with a midi style, if I choose not to use a given track, I need to mute that track/instrument in the first bar, or else the midi instrument on that track will continue to play.
Recently, particularly with the ability to select specific instruments from midi styles, I thought it would be easier to simply start with a "blank slate", e.g., no style, and then build the "band" from a combination of real and midi tracks. I tried this by starting a song with the "BLANK" style as a starting point. However, the resulting song had some serious anomalies in it. I don't remember all of the specifics, but one thing I do remember is that the real drums track just stopped playing part way through the song. I would like to hear what other real tracks users typically use as a basis for starting a new song?

Andy