Obvously the ability to use backing tracks depends a lot on the style of music you're playing and your venue. If you're playing bluegrass, (which is a VERY small group of fans), and you used backing tracks then your reputation would be shot in a matter of weeks.

If you told the listeners up front that you were using backing tracks then that would work in an extremely small setting. Let's say 6-8 listeners.

When people come out to hear bluegrass, folk or Americana they rightfully expect that all of the instruments and vocals they hear are live.

Bob
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http://soundcloud.com/bobcflatpicke/music-in-the-mountains