Psyopus Tech metal titan and guitar virtuoso Chris Arp (Psyopus, Assjack) just self-released an instructional booklet of guitar techniques and exercises. When Noisecreep learned about the Rochester, N.Y.-based guitarist's booklet, we decided to get a little more info from the mastermind himself. You can purchase the 25-page workbook online.

What was the inspiration to put this kind of book together? Did it stem from your years of writing your 'Dr. Opus Ph.D.' column for Decibel magazine?

I was inspired to write the book after years of fans asking questions like: "How to do this?" and "How to do that?" and "Do you give lessons?" Fans would try to meet up with me on the road and schedule lessons. I would do the best I could to oblige, though it was challenging. With all of this, as time passed on, I would play around in my head with just putting some books together for these kids. In fact, often I would consider putting the book together even for myself for two reasons: It would help me keep track of things I was working on, and I realized this was a book I really wish I had had growing up.



So your instructional book has 337 exercises. How in the world did you find a way to develop, organize and then write down that many tutorials?

Lots of time, and a few overnight bipolar upswings. I just sat behind my computer with some music software and brainstormed some ideas for playing, learning and developing techniques. After the exercises I also transcribed 2 Psyopus interludes to learn.

As for the physical book, how was it put together?

It's really lo-fi and bootleg. But the information is no joke. It's about 25 pages crammed with info. If you are expecting a glossy cover with glue binding, this book will disappoint you. There is an introduction and descriptions on how to how to work through the different parts. And then there is the actual exercises. The book is a no bullshit get-to-work workbook.

Would you recommend your book to beginners?

Sure. There are exercises that get your fingers accustomed to the idea of tapping.



How about to guys and gals who have been playing guitar for over ten years?

Definitely. The secret to a lot of these exercises is breaking the very complex down to the very simple. With that, the whole spectrum is available in the book.

What does it take for someone who lives around the Rochester area to schedule a lesson with you?

Contact me on the Psyopus MySpace probably. I am super busy these days with writing and rehearsing, but it is not impossible to free up some time.

Can the world expect to see any Chris Arp solo performances any time soon?

Maybe a singer songwriter project. Maybe a soundtrack or two. I would suggest those interested to expect a very cool and sick metal project coming soon from myself and some now-anonymous other faces in the scene. Big stuff! Very exciting.

And, did someone really say this: "This book blew my d--- off! In the best way possible thanks Arpmandude!"

Absolutely!

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