A new member...?
 

I was watching some P McC (Paul McCartney) earlier and I reaslied that he has 2 full time guitarists, and he steps in on lead sometimes too. This sound is so much more full and energetic.

I think another guitarist, full time in the band would be amazing. I'm strugglin to remember the guy's name that played with them on the HAND tour, but why not make him a semi-member, upfront like Hugh?

I sort of know this won't happen, but if the band is hitting other directions (see LH) and is evolving musically, i wish it would.

You are thinking of Bobby Bandierra. Jon (and Richie) but mostly Jon has played with him since the late 80's. He is the lead guitarist in Southside Johnny and the Asbury Jukes band.

He also played with Jon on the small Destination Anywhere tour - as did Hugh. He is is a competant guitarist but there is no zing - no flash to his playing at all. I think he does better as a backup than a lead.

Kathleen

Agreed, I was majorly disappointed when he played the solo for In These Arms at Hampden. It was building up perfectly - "there's nothing, I wouldn't doooooo-" and rather than Richie kicking ass out steps Bobby.
I don't mind him (or others like Jeff Kazee) being there to beef up the music, but I don't want them becoming additional members.

Bobby is a good guitarist but something is missing .... and I honestly dont want him to play lead guitar with Richie ... he is technically good but not excellent and he is boring - no fire inside (but he is a nice guy)

there is just one Richie for me ... and I am worried ppl begin to think oh it's so good or even BETTER to have more musicains on stage .... yeah why not an orchestra .... :(

OK no Bobby then :)

But the original point, would everyone say no to another guitarist?

Bobby is an allright guitarist. I'd rather see Richie play than Bobby play anyday.

if only my opinion could count I would say NO

Jon said (certainly at Manchester) that Bobby was on permanent loan from SSJ (I know Jeff has gone but it looks like Bobby is here to stay?)

Jeff will be back.
But for the LH tracks he isn't needed that much. This songs need a steel guitar and a violin but not another keyboard.
He will be performing at the MTV/ VH1 unplugged next week. And he will be back next year.
That's what his myspace blog said.