On the notes of Trey's tone, something I've noticed from the couch this year...

I am in agreement. The lack of sustain is notable, and it is definitely reflected in his approach. I sense a real conscious effort on his part towards simplicity (classic solo builds, less notes, repeating melodic statements, etc). That is all fine and cool. Trey can play how ever he wants. This is understandable as he gets older and wiser, etc. BUT, old habits die hard. Every now and then (okay, quite often IMHO), he is still looking for that sustain! And it's not there. And the space really opens up behind him, and I think he notices. Just kind of odd, overall. I now the Keely Comp is long gone, but man, that was a big part of my love for these guys some long 20 years ago.

My two cents.