General mixdown level guidelines

[Genius Gone Insane]

Hey everyone,

I'm just wondering if there is a standard rule of thumb when boosting and cutting track volumes during mixdown (for metal songs in particular of course). ie, is it commonplace to lower rhythm guitars during solos? Drums too?

What about choruses and shit like that? How often do you guys cut and boost volumes?

Thanks,

Harry
PS: I'm getting my POD to sound pretty damn good by the way! Thanks for the help on that!