I went through my mental rolodex of players out there and he was a definite consideration for me as well. I've seen him live twice and each time was almost like a religious experience. Another guy I love is David Gilmour. Different type of player than Vai but I absolutely love his playing.
After much consideration, my final choice is: Joe Perry.
guthrie is great, but I think he should have spent a little more time working on his own sound, dude has chops out the as, but his songwriting and playing is not that recognizable.
this tribute is nothing short of amazing though, especially the dire straits shit had my jaw on the floor.
Used to be pretty active on another one, but I was there when it started and I knew the ins and outs of those people on there. I'm sure there are quirks here that I don't understand or things on message boards in general that I don't understand. So, if you could clue me in, it'd be much appreciated.