Seba:

1. no pretense of being a delicat artiste
2. ability to be thorough with their art
3. no ponderous bullshit
4. peer recognition
5. meaningful evolution, as opposed to needless wankery
6. ability to refine their art
7. technical ability

Tom fits #4, and 7, and also #6 to a certain degree. But he doesnt fit 1, 3, or 5. Number 2 is difficult, because he does some things very well, as opposed to others. Autupt is right about his drum programming, its bonkers. Amazing variations. But as a whole, hes not fitting my criteria. You might have different critera, but if you are honest you have to admit that # 1, 3, and 5 are CRUCIAL.

I like Toms older work, and I hate Ultravisitor. But even when Beep Street was hot, and then Rotted, I still never considered him a musician.

Maybe I'm just old fashioned but I tend to think that anyone who makes music is a musician. Especially if they have records out and a fanbase.