Temple Of Blues II
Cleopatra, 2026
9/10
The original Cactus drummer Carmine Appice is in legendary company for these 11 powerful and raw blues tracks that take plenty of influence for the grooves and rhythm.
The dense climate of “Back Door Man Pt 1 & 2” opens with Eric Gales and Billy Sheehan’s thick guitars guitars adding much to the sturdy blues, and “300 Pounds Of Joy” follows with Ty Tabor’s animated riffs that suit the underlying grooves.
Moving along, “Down In The Bottom” recruits Dug Pinnick’s meticulous bass amid the melodic and gritty album highlight, while “The Little Red Rooster” finds Dee Snider, Tracii Guns and Jimmy Haslip in attendance for the rich and dynamic delivery.
Inching towards the end, “Spoonful” enlists Ted Nugent and Bob Daisley via plenty of classic rock spirit, and “Feel So Good”, the CD bonus track, benefits from Sheehan and Britt Lightning’s inimitable playing that complements Appice’s furious drumming.
The guest list alone should entice any fan of rock to give this a listen, and there’s plenty of charged, visceral and timeless blues rock to repeatedly enjoy from Appice and his legendary company.
Travels well with: Station- Perspective; Foghat- Sonic Mojo