Hailing from the deep South, the birthplace of everything cool, Dr. Mel is Agave's lead guitarist and primary songwriter. He brings not only a superb guitar playing ability but a seasoned musical approach that can only come from years of paying dues as a musician. Having been in several national touring acts in the past makes him the most experienced musician in Agave and enables him to draw upon that rich history to come up with the intricate, catchy song arrangements that are the band's signature sound. The Southern California lifestyle suits Rusty well, evident by his laid back style and penchant for the ever-present local Mexican cuisine which provides his daily fix of spicy sauces and tangy marinades that reflect his musical preferences.

Name: Dr. Mel
a.k.a: Dogg, Brown Dog, Snoop, Perro
Musical Influences: Widespread Panic, Phish, Allman Bros, Dire Straits
Likes: scratchin' behind the ear, chasin' squirrels, diggn' holes, chasin' frisbees, bitches
Dislikes: cats, fire hydrants, fleas, postmen, eatin' grass
Boxers or Briefs: Underarmor
Hobbies: surfing, hiking, snowboarding
Drink(s) of Choice: whiskey
Occupation: bio-med researcher
Favorite Movies: Friday, Hootch, Old Yeller, Beethoven
Bathroom Reading: Science, Nature
Martial Art Skills: Walking the Dog (doggy style), Sloppy Licker, The Wet Tail-Wag
Other Skills: cooking skills, climbing skills, PhD. skills
Gear: Paul Reed Smith, Mesa Boogie Mark I Reissue (1987), pedals, pedals, pedals............