Imhotep.no recently caught up with JUDAS PRIEST guitarist K.K. Downing. The following is a brief excerpt from the interview, which focuses primarily on the Downing's guitar playing:

Imhotep: How would you say your and Glenn’s (Tipton) playing styles differ from each other?

K.K.: “Many people ask that, and I’m not sure I really know the answer. I can only say that it’s a strange thing, but guitar playing style is a bit like fingerprint – everybody’s got a bit different. I guess that also applies to me and Glenn. We are both unique guitarists, but I can’t point my finger on what the difference is.”

Imhotep: Is there a secret to the Judas Priest guitar sound?

K.K.: “No (laughter). We are searching, and I guess Glenn would agree with me on this one, new things all the time. One thing that bothers me a bit at this point of my life is that I am not as identifiable as a player as I would like to be. If I hear for example Michael Schenker playing I know immediately it’s Michael Schenker, I don’t have to see him. He has a very recognizable sound. Eddie Van Halen is another guitarist like that. I like to try different things, different techniques as far as the playing and the sound goes. I would say that is my thing.”

Imhotep: What are in your opinion the characteristics of a good guitarist?

K.K.: “You need to practise a lot. But guitarist must also have some kind of unique style. The most important thing is that the guitarist has good ideas and inspiration. And you need to take risks every now and then.”

Go to this location for the complete interview.