I had the unbelievable thrill of playing with him a couple of times in college - just a couple of songs each time- he was friends with the leader of the band, and appeared unannounced on stage. The guy was as amazing then as he is now - what a talent!
To be.. erm, candid, Rob, it all bores me after a short time listening. The Beatles or Stones never bored me, Spirit or Ottis Redding never bored me. But instrumental superstars (i.e. soloists), can only handle them in small doses, even the best of the best.
I had front row seats to see him in the 1980's. I was so stunned I didn't touch my guitar for a month - but when I did it inspired me. I like Stanley's playing - especially Coltrane's "Impressions".