I agree, Cassp, playing with others is a good thing, and I regularly jam with several others, but they just want to play for fun.

Living in a small town also restricts your options of sidemen, the venues aren't as plentiful, or the jobs don't, or won't, pay enough for a duo, trio or whatever to make a decent living.

Conversely, there also some people who can't or won't play solo, because they lack the talent and/or self confidence to go it alone on a job.

I don't think solo acts should be criticized for their choice of playing alone, especially when the reasons behind their decision aren't known.

Ian