Dr. Rhino's Picks #57

Though somewhat lost to the sands of time, Cactus was initially dubbed “the American Led Zeppelin” upon their emergence in 1970. Formed as a super group by the Vanilla Fudge rhythm section (Carmine Appice/drums, Tim Bogert/bass), Cactus also featured Jim McCarty (Mitch Ryder & The Detroit Wheels) on guitar and Rusty Day (Amboy Dukes) on vocals. They released 3 studio albums and toured extensively, but never quite caught on with rock fans. The original lineup dissolved in 1972. Bogert & Appice went on to play with Jeff Beck and subsequent versions of Cactus have reunited over the years. Critics tend to write these guys off as formulaic boogie rock. Bullshit. Cactus rules. Dig?

ABOUT DR. RHINO

A young Dr. Rhino first encountered the magic of song whilst being born in the front seat of a Lincoln Continental. As the attending physician recalls, the tune was “Touch Me In The Morning” by Diana Ross. It was a mind-blower. Over the years, Dr. Rhino listened to many, many more songs. And, after several summers of diggin’ music, making the scene & a stint in Attica, the good doctor joined Rhino Records. A remarkable career of taste & empathy ensued. Dr. Rhino now spends his time hitting bull’s-eyes, making it rain and assembling playlists for you. (Yes, you!)