Carmine Appice and Cactus Collaborate on New Blues-Rock Album with Dee Snider and Ted Nugent

Carmine Appice and Cactus have just launched their latest blues-rock album, Temple of Blues II, released under Cleopatra Records. This record boasts an impressive lineup of renowned musicians, including Dee Snider, Ted Nugent, Joe Lynn Turner, Steve Morse, and Billy Sheehan, who have all contributed their skills to this project.

Among the music featured on the album is the latest single “Bad Stuff,” which was originally found on Cactus’ 1972 release Ot and Sweaty. However, this new rendition brings a fresh perspective with Turner on vocals and Morse on guitar, injecting new energy into the familiar track.

Turner shared his excitement about participating in the album, stating, “When Carmine asked me to contribute a vocal to the new Cactus album, the first question was ‘what song?’ He said a bluesy rock song called ‘Bad Stuff’ that would be perfect for me.” Turner expressed enthusiasm upon learning about the stellar lineup of musicians involved in the project, including Morse, Franklin, Sherinian, and Appice.

Appice also reflected on the song, expressing his enduring admiration for “Bad Stuff.” He emphasized his appreciation for the groove and lyrics of the track, particularly enjoying the updated rendition featuring the all-star lineup involved in the album.

This release serves as a follow-up to their previous album, Temple of the Blues, with familiar names like Snider, Nugent, Sheehan, Bumblefoot, and Travers returning for this project. Additionally, new artists such as Melanie, Tracii Guns, Rudy Sarzo, and Alex Skolnick have joined the collaboration, adding a fresh dynamic to the mix.

The album features seven classic tracks from Dixon and Wolf, showcasing collaborations like Nugent’s partnership with Bob Daisley on “Spoonful,” Snider and Guns taking on “The Little Red Rooster,” and Gales teaming up with Sheehan on “Back Door Man.” Notably, Melanie’s vocals on “Purple Haze” were recorded prior to her passing in 2024, marking a poignant moment in the album’s lineup.

The standard release consists of ten tracks, with a CD-exclusive bonus track titled “Feel So Good,” which highlights the talents of Sheehan, Lightning, and Thayer. The album is a testament to the enduring appeal and versatility of blues-rock music, showcasing both established and emerging talents in the genre.