In all candor, a great many jazz players also suffer from a narrow scope in their playing. We've been hearing the same modal stuff 'playing over the changes' for what seems like a zillion years. Most of the jazz played is indistinguishable from one player to the other. The real innovators stand out because they've moved into other directions.
That's why it can seem boring and is one reason the jazz audience has dwindled. Guys like Miles Davis never stood still, and his records are still listened to because they're interesting. Same with Pat Metheney, John Scofield, etc.
The last thing on Earth I want to listen to is one more guy playing modes over the changes. Colorless blah stuff, and I don't care how difficult it is to do well. There was once a point to be made, there isn't any more in that stuff.
Then too -
I'm absolutely as guilty of this as anyone else- we hear it in blues, in rock, and other genres. We play what we've learned to play, stylistically, and it's hard to break out of established patterns.
Even in film music, how many people seem to be aping John Williams (and/or others)? I get the whole 'influenced by' thing, but you've got a freaking orchestra at your disposal. Lots and lots of colors and possibilities. Yet they go wanting, in terms of originality.
I'm ranting, am I not?
Yeah, I really don't mind. I'll accept the criticism.
