And don't get me wrong, I don't think I'm in a rut at the moment. Just trying to push through these audition pieces and get them recorded by the end of the month. Deadlines and patience don't often mix well. But you're right, I'll be fine. Thanks.

In one issue he talked about playing one lick/riff/phrase over and over and over again, as a means of breaking out of ruts. Although that might seem like the manifestation of a rut.

I also once read something similar in an interview of jazz keyboardist Cecil Taylor. The interviewer asked Taylor how he prepared for a performance-- did he practice scales, runs or difficult sections from his set list? Cecil Taylor responded with:

"... I just sit down at the piano and play ONE NOTE over and over until it plugs into the universe."

EVH has talked about sitting in front of the TV with guitar and constantly noodling to what's on the screen, and getting cool new ideas that way.

Or, if there's some other creative outlet you like, why not spend some time doing that, while your guitar zone re-balances itself.

You'll be fine!

at least you've got all your fingers and both hands!

love!