Welcome Kris
Don't worry you'll get along fine with the "new" tools/techniques as they are not too hard to learn.
Sorry to say that "hairy stick" painting is used mostly for details and weathering (Boy is that statement going to raise the howls of denial by some)
However, don't let that stop you from diving in.
Do what you want, Do what you can, Do learn as you go, you'll be back up to speed in no time.
Again Welcome back to the hobby and especially Welcome to the FSM forums, glad you are here.