Very different players, both talented. Gilmore as you say, unleashed soul. His solos were phenominaly bleeding hearts where as Rhoads was soulful in technicality. His solos were not flashy. Technical ecstasy? Yes! But he was so musically inclined and had vision that just superceded players of flash. His guitar parts were very intricate. And he may not have had to work on much to incorporate it all? Rather he may have just sat and played what his brain and heart showed which if thats the case? Was phenominal!
Players like Vai or Satriani. No matter how technical they play, it seems so mechanical. Yes theyre virtuoso but somehow lack soul for lack of a better word. Thats just my opinion.