So, here's an opinion question. For a beginner (me), I think it is smart to play along with great musicans on CD. So, I'm looking for suggestions of bands with great keyboardists. Thx.

Dream Theater's 1992 release entitled "Images and Words" has some of the best synth song integration and solos I've heard, IMHO. I'm generally not a fan of synth in heavier music -- but I think that's because I generally disagree with the sounds that so many keyboardists choose. On this disc, however, I think the sound canvas is superb, and the playing is flawless.

Interesting topic. Anyone else?

 Chris, DT is a bit advanced for a beginner. :-) Alex, maybe start out with something a bit more basic than them. Eddie Van Halen was responsible for some great synth parts.

This vid shows some amazing guitar sounds via a synth:

 Good pont. That's an mpressve eyboard sound. But  stll prefer gutar. ROE!

'm gettng my laptop fxed tomorrow. Coffee spll wped out the eye and cay ey. 

Dg ths:

wow, that's amazing stuff. what model are those 'boards? they sound so real!