Link: http://s8.invisionfree.com/Ultra_Zone/index.php?showtopic=562

Mass: Rusty, on behalf of the Ultra Zone we would like to thank you for taking the time to answer some questions for us. Thank you.

Rusty: It's my pleasure thanks for asking!

Mass: So what's new in Cooley world?

Rusty: Well Outworld is almost finished with our new cd that's the newest and most exciting thing. We are also going to be playing ProgPower in Atlanta in September as well as a warm up show here in Houston .

Mass: When you were younger did you know you wanted to be a Musician?

Rusty: Not until I started playing. Before that I raced motocross and BMX so that's what I figured I would be doing today

Mass: Do your parents have a Music back ground?

Rusty: Nope.

Mass: How do you feel about being the 7th fastest shredder in the world?

Rusty: Well first I have to say I'm honored to have been on the list but I don't really think it's accurate. I think it was more of a goofy thing for the magazine to do.

Mass: You have many instruction DVD and CD ROMs out. Do you find it rewarding to teach others the gift of playing Guitar?

Rusty: Sure I can't tell you the amount of great feedback I get and some of the guys learning this stuff are becoming really sick guitarist. It's also cool because it's influencing some of today's greats as well. Guitar players like John Petrucci, Jeff Loomis/Nevermore, Buz McGrath/Unearth and Mark Tremonti/Creed/Alter Bridge have all learned some licks from my instructionals.

Mass: What other instruments do you play other that Guitar?

Rusty: Guitar is pretty much it.

Mass: On a personal note, you played Van Halens Eruption in High School. How long did it take you to master that solo?

Rusty: I really can't remember it's been so long. I know I had only been playing a couple of years when I learned it.

Mass: Have you ever met Eddie Van Halen?

Rusty: Nope but it sure would be cool!

Mass: Do you have any tips on accurately playing fast arpeggios?

Rusty: Yeah practice slowly with lots of repetition. Always try to keep each not clear with muting and rolling bars where needed.

Mass: How long does it take when you first start practicing sweep picking before you can actually start doing it efficiently and incorporate it in your playing?

Rusty: For me again it was along time ago. I think I remember practicing for about 6 months before I could really get them going. You got to remember when I started sweeping there was only a couple of guys doing it Malmsteen, Gilbert, Moore and MacAlpine so there were no books or tabs for this stuff it was figure it out on your own.

Mass: What's your all time favorite song/solo?

Rusty: I really don't have one.

Mass: Is there anything you can't play on guitar?

Rusty: Sure there are tons of stuff, guitar and music is really endless for me. You could continue to learn for many life times.

Mass: Any suggestions/tips you would like to give to novice Guitar players?

Rusty: Learn your theory and get your technique going.

Mass: What do you do in your off time to relax?

Rusty: Relax what's that? Well when I get it I usually just chill out at the house. But I do like to occasionally go out and live a little.

Mass: Once again we would like to thank you Rusty for granting us this interview. We hope the best in your career.

Rusty: Thanks man!