Charlee - s/t 1972

Before forming Charlee, (not to be confused with the U.K. band Charlie) Walter Rossi had cut his teeth in the late 60's with some pretty big names like Wilson Pickett, and Buddy Miles Express, where he contributed lead guitar to Buddy's original version of "Them Changes." He even turned down offers from Three Dog Night and Janis Joplin.
Rossi also had the pleasure of jamming with Hendrix and Buddy Miles during the 'Band of Gypsies' days.
Then, back in Canada, Walter co-founded the progressive psych rock band Influence in 1968/69. After being signed to ABC records, they went on tour in support of The Doors and Steppenwolf.
Then in 1971, he formed Charlee, and the band released one eponymous album that year.
The Charlee album is one of the best examples of 70's hard rock you'll ever hear. Highly recommended.
After the album was released, David Bowie's manager Tony Defries heard Walter playing in the studio and offered him a job playing for the Ziggy Stardust tour, but Walter had made up his mind to stay in Montreal close to his father, who was ill at the time.
Rossi then went to Toronto where he met up with Luke Gibson and joined his band Luke and the Apostles in '72/'73.
This album is absolutely amazing. It ranks up there with Montrose, Sad Wings of Destiny, and early Robin Trower.