Minimalist Music vs. "Shredding"

[grandpa]

To begin with, I am not necessarily against "shredding." I listen to plenty of guitarists who do solos -- including extensive ones. However, I will always prefer those playing "for the song" over a mindless yanked solo any day.

At the same time, I think some bands go too far out of their way to be simple/minimalistic. It's funny how 1970s/1980s overindulgences created a desire to hear simpler stuff, and now we're in danger of music that's too lacking in technicality and therefore kind of boring.

Your thoughts?

Grandpa h.

[Angry Citizen]

Both minimalism and complexity have their virtues. To say that one is "better" than the other is, to be blunt, pretty ridiculous. One person going for minimalism may not be playing "for the song" at all, and a wanky shredder may very well be doing just that. I've seen examples of both.

[ruksak]

Could I hear an example of 'minimalist' music so I know what exactly we're talking about?

[Angry Citizen]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaFS0ZMHeco

[ruksak]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaFS0ZMHeco

yeeesh....background music for any documentary? Jebus Cripes that was pretty lame.

As with many other issues, I guess you'll find me somewheres in between. While in my garage working I'll listen to everything from Hank III to Lynnard Skynard to Slayer and maybe some good 'ol CCR.

As a basic rule, I avoid modern music for whatever reason. Too many bells and whistles.