Record Reviews

CACTUS ~ TEMPLE OF BLUES CLEOPATRA 889466546327 (Barcode: 889466546327) ~ USA ~ Blues-Rock Recorded: 2024 Released: 2024 This is an album attributed to the legendary American Rock band CactusFind albums by this artist, but is in fact a tribute to the band. Although the drummer Carmine AppiceFind albums by this artist, Cactus founding member, plays on all the tracks and produced the album, Cactus guitarist Jim McCartyFind albums by this artist plays on a couple of tracks, and the songs are associated with Cactus repertoire, that’s all that connects this album to Cactus. Does it disturb me? Not one bit! A bunch of excellent American rockers participate on this album, like vocalist Jim StapleyFind albums by this artist, guitarists Joe BonamassaFind albums by this artist, Ted NugentFind albums by this artist, Pat TraversFind albums by this artist and Fernando PerdomoFind albums by this artist, and many others, playing their butts off and spiritually the music is definitely close to the Cactus spirit. The album presents fourteen tracks and one bonus track, which is an alternate version of one of the songs. The music is loud and heavy, as appropriate for the occasion, the musicians can play and Stapley delivers excellent vocal parts, the familiar tunes sound, well… familiar and bring on fond memories. As far as I am concerned this album is a proper tribute, not just an attempt to “ride” on the band’s name / fame. This album will not replace any Cactus album in my collection (I have them all of course), but it can co-exist nicely on the shelf. Overall, this is a great Blues-Rock album, which brings fond memories of the legendary Cactus, one of the greatest American Rock bands ever. On top of the great songs, there is plenty of superb guitar solos, strong vocals and the music simply kicks butt, much due to Appice’s superb drumming, which is still absolutely convincing. Love every minute of this!

Updated: 30/08/2024Posted: 30/08/2024

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