Guitar Backing Tracks - Quality Counts
You already know that you need a collection of guitar backing tracks in your jam room. Whether you have a bunch of play-along CD's or a ton of tracks on your iPod doesn't really matter. What does matter is the quality of these tracks. If your hoping that your downloaded guitar backing tracks you found on the internet are going to inspire you, you may be disappointed. If the drums sound like a cheesy 80's film and the guitar is about as exciting as a high school assembly, are you really going to want to pick up your guitar and play with them. Probably not. Go for the ones that will inspire you.
Get some Play-Along CD's that feature a REAL band playing and sound like they are having fun. That is going to be a hell of a lot more inspiring to you as a player. You are also going to want tracks that have dynamics and offer a bunch of different keys and styles. You have spent tons of money on books and lessons. You have spent tons of time practicing and learning new techniques. Don't let it all go to waste by skipping this very important step in your guitar playing. Remember, what we practice is what we play. If you are practicing licks that are out of time and sloppy, guess what's going to come out at the jam.
It's very important that you are practicing with guitar backing tracks every day. Don't skip this! If you are short on time, just play through one track. At least you are doing it everyday. This step is just as important as any other step in your practicing.
If you are into jazz guitar, check out the Jamey Aebersold series. There is a ton of great stuff there. Also, all the tracks have great players on them. For more rock style tracks, check out the ckoMusic band jams series guitar backing tracks.
The thing to remember, when you are shopping for practice materials quality guitar backing tracks should be at the top of your list.