Thanks Rachael. I am familiar with most of the midi jazz styles and I agree that generally the bass lines are not that bad. However, the bass lines in the RealStyles, particularly those generated from Neil Swainson's playing, were just awful. This is not a criticism of Neil's playing but of the programming that followed. I don't know if it was my whinging that got them changed but the updates of a few days ago are in my opinion a vast improvement. But I am not a bass player even though I have studied how to construct walking bass lines. So last night I gave my printouts to the only pro bass player I know well. He is acknowledged as one of the best in Australia - Graeme Bell called him "Everybody's bass player!" - and we'll see what he has to say.

There is a more important reason that I like the RealTracks. I know that 'swing' is often claimed to be a subtle element and difficult to define, but for me the RealStyle/Track rhythm sections 'swing' whereas the midi styles are a bit stolid. I have joked before on this forum that even the midi tracks swing more than some of the musicians I have played with, but RealStyles/Tracks were a revelation for me. So I just want them as good as they can be!

I'll leave the propaganda about using real musicians on a gig after this short rant, because I am not a pro and I do have some sympathy for those that try to earn a living from playing music, as opposed to teaching or, like me, just having fun with jazz. Just don't expect me to listen to the dreaded duos - keyboard and female vocalist with backing tracks - for longer than five minutes. I would rather there be no music at all. Anyway, I'm too busy playing with big bands and a couple of six-piece traditional jazz bands. The real problem in Australian clubs and pubs is the pokies, which have almost killed live music. More power to Senator Fielding!

Grah Jive Talk
"Don't worry baby, they'll swing their arses off."