Haha...I think this is HTGTHs first Dave Kushner thread.
He played rhythm in Dave Navarros band, but it seems like his primary claim to fame is playing in Wasted Youth. Hes also played in Infectious Grooves, Zilch and the Electric Love Hoggs. He came to VR through Duffs band Loaded. When the GNR guys started jamming again, Duff brought him along and he just kept getting asked back until it was just assumed that he was in the band.
He was in middle/high school with Slash.
Hes been called VRs "secret weapon" by everyone in the band because of his "modern" sound, which includes a lot of effects pedals. Slash and the guys say that besides Izzy, Dave is the only rhythm guitar player that can really hang with Slash and compliment him properly.
Hes posted on the VR forum a couple of times, expressing gratitude and taking "blame" for the guitar trail-off after the "Slither" intro (a great touch, might I add).
I saw the band live, front row, and Kushner is a great performer. He plays with a lot of energy, bashing his guitar, bouncing around from one side of the stage to the other.
Hes certainly the most low-key member, staying quiet in most of the interviews, but he plays his role perfectly. I like his work so far, and Im looking forward to his presence on the album.