How unfortunate Larry Leishman wasn't included in this reunion. He was, after all a member of Rhinoceros and his abscence was a loss.
lynn <newtarragon@hotmail.com>
Canada

I was married to Doug Hastings brother, Bill, and, although I knew Doug played with Rhinoceros, etc, I had no idea the band had such a following. Doug was extremely humble and VERY talented! I remember going to Danny's house listening to some band members jam. I had no idea what I was listening to, but I remember thinking that they were very talented. Now, after being married to a choral director for 30+ years, I have a much greater appreciation for incredible music.

Doug's kids were my nephew and niece and I'd love to hear where they are now.
Vicki Hagen Michel <vmichel54@yahoo.com>
USA

Wow. I don't know if I'll ever get to sleep again. I'm thrilled by the Kitchener gig, and I hope that we can do more.
Bernie LaBarge <bernie@bernielabarge.com>
Canada

I have to say first off, that the six hour round trip to Kitchener Ontario (401 construction) to see the first show Rhinoceros has played since 1973 was the best time spent to venture to a show in years if not ever.
Rhinoceros were at the top of their game on Friday night from the downbeat of Monkey Man to the end of the show. It was very hard to believe that this band is not constantly touring together or in sessions. This definitely was a celebration of a world class band reuniting and showing great passion for the music they penned and played many years ago.
This show was high energy from the get go with John and Alan harmonizing with brilliance trading off each other's style and talent. In my estimation, Mr. Finley is the best R&;B vocalist out of
Toronto, period and this duet of premier vocalists have never been matched. Having Alan Gerber at the side of John made for a magical evening of two great singer / song writers giving this crowd more than was expected or anticipated.
The guitar playing was absolutely fantastic. Danny Weis is truly one of the best players in the world and his show on this occassion was no exception. Danny played the vintage Rhinoceros tracks note for note. I have never seen such professionalism in truly staying with the original tune. Mr. Weis is one gifted musician likened by few. To compliment Danny's superb playing the crowd was very fortunate to have the one and only Bernie LaBarge taking the second guitar position. Bernie is with out a doubt Toronto's best guitar player in my humble estimation. One has to draw parallels to Booker T and the MG's guitar master Steve Cropper. Bernie is top notch playing any genre which he proves on a regular basis.
Michael Fonfara... enough said.....This cat is one of the baddest B3 players you will ever see and this show he exemplified how great he is. From the time he walked on stage you knew he was there for a good time and some very cool music. Mojo treated each tune as if it was wriiten with the B3 in mind. He respectfully filled the appropriate spots needed between superb guitar reefs while burning through every opportunity allowed to lead. A master matched by few.
Peter Hodgeson is one of the most underestimated and under glorifed bass men in the universe. The quiet guy at the side comes through every time giving solid low end to this superb band.
Lastly, way at the back of the stage is none other that Michael Sloski giving every song the exact punch, at the exact timing as if he was the original drummer. This guy plays with such passion and musical wherewithall, I am surprized other percussionists in Toronto even find work.
If you did not have the opportunity to see this show it is extremely unfortunate. If you choose not to go, you missed something exceptional that may never be repeated.
Rhinoceros has been discribed in many ways, Supergroup, R&;B, Rock, Soul, or whatever,but this band gave the world a new look at music and the Kitchener show proved to the world that their great music was not just a snap shot in time, these guys live it, breathe it, and can bring it to the masses with great style even decades after they originally played it.

Gentlemen thanks for bringing it back home to the true fans in Kitchener.

Rhinoceros lives and will remain one of the finest musical units period, let everyone figure out what genre it should be.... Rhinoceros is just great players playing great music .



Peter David Vickery <petervickery@rogers.com>
Toronto Canada

Saw John, and Rhinoseros in Kitchener a few hours ago. Sounded magnificent!
A new friend of mine (Paul Miil) who is doing an intense documentary about the music scene in the Niagara Peninsula on a whole lot of us musicians from there, (from way back when, including bandmate, Neil Peart), received an invite from John Finley, via e-mail, to see the show in Kitchener, earlier this evening.
Remembering that I had mentioned to him how much I liked John's voice, he invited me to go see them. I certainly went, and was amazed at their first gig in over thirty years!
And, of course, there was Danny Weis, who thrilled audiences in Toronto, (during the '90s), with his magnificent guitar playing, in the band, "The Lincolns."
the band was excellent, and let's hope this isn't a "one off" thing.
John's voice, range and enthusiasm is very similar to a fantastic British vocalist, by the name of Glenn Hughes.
Hopefully, the band will do a brand new album, and a live DVD.
Joe Szilagy <joe.slant@hotmail.com>
Canada

Huge fan of the Checkmates, saw them "live" and was blown away. Thought those routines were theirs until I saw the Cape with James Brown on the T.A.M.I Show, lol. "Bring it Down Front", we covered it with the Blue Eyed Soul Band I played Hammond on. Still have the Jon Lee Group "45"!
Saw Rhinoceros at the Hawks Nest in Toronto and again was completely blown away, yet again. Bought the album and was wearing it out so got it converted to 8 track so I could blast it from my 68 Firebird on Sherkston Beaches Ontario that amazing Summer. Heard about the dream of putting the Band back together from the get go and followed the progression with lots of encouragement along the way. Forty years later we can all relive the Summer of 69 at the Kitchener Blues Festival with the line-up as follows :
John Finley (orig)
Danny Weis (orig)
Alan Gerber (orig)
Michael Fonfara (orig)
Peter Hodgson (orig starting w/LP#2)
Bernie LaBarge (in for orig. Doug Hastings)
Mike Sloski (Drums)
www.kitchenerbluesfestival.com
Bruce Hall <grandriverblues@gmail.com>
Canada

Am excited about the reunion gig in Kitchener next week (August 2009).

Saw Rhinoceros play in Toronto in 1969 and later caught various other bands Danny Weis and Michael Fonfara have played in since then. Thanks for maintaining the website.

Yes, it's that time of the year.

- Bob
Bob Langmaid <blangmaid@hotmail.com>
Canada

RHINOCEROS REUNION!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

John, Alan, Danny, Michael and Peter (and possibly Doug) are playing at the Kitchener Blues Festival in Ontario on 7 August with Mike Sloski on drums and Bernie LaBarge on guitar.

Please spread the news about fans!!!!!!

This could be the one and only show they play
Nick Warburton <Warchive@aol.com>
UK

I knew Larry and Peter bfore their fame in Rock Music was realized. Who knew thy'd succeed to such Heights. Seeing them at the Kitchener Blues Festival . Hope to have a word or two with them
Wayne Eames <wayneeames@rogers.com>
Canada

I first heard this band in 1969 at a party at my friend Zubab's basement aprtment in Columbus, Ohio. We wore the vinyl and two needles out in the summer of '69. My life went into fast forward around 1970 and I didn't get to hear these guys again until today, 6/28/09, some forty years later. Thanks again to another great friend. And the rush this time was even better than in '69 thanks to a grown up sound system! Great stuff!!! Dj
Dj Bowen <dj@musicforsight.org>
USA

Heard them at Boston Tea Party a million years ago. Fantastic. Had 'em on vinyl, gone. Found again recently on Rhapsody. Still great.
ed hardensky <hardensky@verizon.net>
usa

BEST GROUP EVER after JON-LEE GROUP....NO APPRECIATION SOCIETY???? WHY NOT????
kenneth webber <boybuckley@gmail.comom>
canada

Many years ago I encountered a Rascals double album featuring Danny Weiss on lead guitar simply entitled 'Rascals' released on columbia and in fact advertised on one of their inner sleeves in 1973 around the time of the record's release. This recording is the subject of complete dilema within the UK as many know of the existence of the group featuring Danny Weiss the recordings are virtually never encountered. I would be interested to read any revelations surrounding this obscure item and the duration of this latter line-ups foray into the recording and touring world.
Ray Charles <frieslander@yahoo.com>
Netherlands

I'm still listening to the band on my original vinyl LPs. They're one of my all time favorites, and the one live show I saw was incredible. I'm glad people have remembered this great band.
Eric Kjelstrom
U.S.A.

Sept 27, 1969: Rhinoceros played Wagner College In Staten Island, NY, and were great!! The opening band was a local group, The Underground Railroad (from Brooklyn). I was the lead singer of the Railroad, and this gig is one of my fondest memories, and probably the highlight of my extremely limited local music career. Long live Rhinoceros: their albums still sound great!
Allen Kupfer <allenk752@hotmail.com>
USA

Awesome! Been looking for this CD for a while and picked it up on Record Store Day in GB, WI.

Thanks for the great music!
Nathan "NOOGIE" Neugebauer <noogie54201@yahoo.com>
USA

Just finished the John Haeny interview. Is there anyway to coerce him into looking at those tapes?
mark lotito <mrbad80@hotmail.com>
usa

So glad to find that Rhino is now on CD. I've worn out the LP and tapes! Great group, John Finleys vocals are razor sharp, and the band is tight. I saw them live twice, the original band at some college in upstate NY, and the reformed band with Duke at New Haven University. I'm in search of the Jon-Lee Group CDs if available, please let me know. Regards, Jim
Jim Ross <jross1@rochester.rr.com>
USA

One of the best supergoups, what else to say? Since a reunion isn t possible, we ll just enjoy their recordings.
Paul Siegmund <psiegmun@skybest.com>
USA

Rhinoceros is one of the few bands that have formed the soundtrack of my life. Bits of their songs have drifted into my consciousness at the oddest times over the past 40 years. I saw them live at Drew University, Madison, NJ as the opening act for Chuck Berry and Blood, Sweat, & Tears. I was so amazed at the sound, the rhythm, and the power of Rhinoceros that when they left the stage, the rest was a let-down. B,S,&;T only did a 45 minute set because Clayton-Thomas developed throat trouble - so much so that they didn't perform during the later second show. According to a neighbor who went to the second show, Rhinoceros and Chuck Berry both expanded their stage time to fill out the time left vacant by B,S,&;T. I felt really cheated that I hadn't seen more of Rhinoceros. What a band!!!!
louie johnson <louiejohnson1@myfairpoint.net>
US

Some of my best memories of shows back in the day ! I grew up in Hartford Ct. I'll never forget the show they played one summer day in the park in Hartford. What are you going to do when old age get's ya ? ROCK ON
Paul Mocarsky <mocarsky@comcast.net>
US

My teen years were greatly enhanced by the music of Jon & Lee & the Checkmates ! Many a Friday night we danced away at Club Bugaloo in Hamilton, Ontario to your fabulous band. Thanks for so many wonderful memories !
JoAnn <scarfone@bellnet.ca>
Canada

I almost wore out the grooves on the first album. It's still one of my desert Island discs. Listening to it takes me back, like taking a vacation. It's one of the most 'Real' albums and at the time, amomgst all the BS in rock it stood out like a bright diamond. I could not grasp why on the strength of the record, they didn't have a stratospehric rise to stardom. It's such honest music in every possible way. No one could touch what they did them and no one even tried
James <r2jfan@yahoo.com>
USA

The past can be rich and when you guys reigned
my life was the richest. But imagine... too young
to get in to the Boston Tea Party while my older friends could...and they'd just tell me about your incredible shows. So I made up for it by drumming and singing incessantly to your albums in my practice room. Drove my parents
(and the neighbors) crazy. But what a music education to listen to you all. Thanks for the great tunes AND the education.--Denny
Dennis Mahoney <alm18@verizon.net>
USA

Danny Weis has taken a weekend residency at the Raven Grill in Blue Mountain Ontario. It's a ski resort north of Toronto near Collingwood.

Brian
Kingston, Canada

You guys were one of my favorite bands back in the late sixties. I never got to see you live but I still own several of your albums. I remember one time in particular when my band had a gig at the club next door to the Whisky and you were playing down the street. Unfortunately, we had to play at the same time that you guys played so I couldn't get to see you. Well, the Turtles were playing the Whisky that night and us being VERY LOUD played our set. The next thing I knew the entire Whisky crowd had come next door to see us. You guys were one of the best!
Jack Caviness <jcaviness@jycmi.net>
USA

rhinoceros is far before my time but i am a huge fan of vinyl. I was shopping for vinyl a few years back and i came upon the 3rd album at a 2nd hand store. I thought the graphics were cool and I love funk. So i took it home and listened to it. I loved it. A few years later I found the 1st album on vinyl at a collectables shop. They were such an amazing band and I am sad I missed out. But i love sharing their sound with friends who come over and want to take a gander at my record collection.
jen shugert <funkiflava@aol.com>
USA

I spoke with Michael Fonfara at the Markham (Ontario) ribfest this past summer and he mentioned that there was someone interested in backing a Rhinoceros reunion tour. Is there a chance of this really happening? If so, I've got about a dozen people lined up to buy tickets!!!
Ron Rehfeld <rmongoos@sympatico.ca>
Canada

I looked through the concert date list and did not see an appearance in Detroit, but I think that I saw Rhinoceros at the Easttown Theater. I also thought that this was the group that coordinated their play in at least one long song with a changing animation video shown on a large screen behind them! If anyone remembers anything like this, I'd love to hear from you!
Dale "Eddie" Kinnamon <dognotgone@sbcglobal.net>
USA

In 1969, I used to practically live in a record store on High St. in Morgantown, West Virginia. I can still recall seeing the first Rhinoceros album with the incredible graphics and wondering if it was good. My curiousity finally got the better of me and I bought the album. For the next several weeks, I turned all my friends on to what I considered the best rock group in America. I only wish I'd seen them play.

Jim Ankrom
Jim Ankrom <jima@rrmodelcraftsman.com>
US

i have all three rhinoceros lps.....and i still play them today!!! i tried to see them every time they played in the nyc area....mostly at the fillmore. for a short amount of time, my friend debbie dated michael...and she photographed the band......down in her basement in brooklyn new york. debbie, are you out there? do any of rhinoceros remember this? i wanted to hang out with her and the band while she did her phogography but she wouldn't let me. jealous i guess. lol.
anyway......i was so very happy to find this site.......i just want to say that i've always loved rhinoceros......i wish they were still playing today!!!!!!!
yvonne <agyvonne@aol.com>
usa

Here is an interesting connection. While writing the hit musical Jesus Christ Superstar, Andrew Lloyd Weber was basically taking a collection of well known rock and r & b hooks and weaving them in with some classic Broadway show dynamics.... now listen to the opening guitar riff in Heaven on Thier Minds and compare it to the opening riff in Apricot Brandy...

Thanks for the great music... from, Robert Warren Greene Guitar player for Jesus Christ Superstar... back in the day...
Robert Warren Greene <bgreene@topspinentertainment.net>
USA

Here's a good story for you guys. I went with a bunch of college friends to see The Crazy World of Arthur Brown in NYC in 1969. The opening act was Rhinoceros, whom we were unfamiliar with at the time. Anyway, we loved the show. Rhinoceros was great - though not quite as great as Arthur Brown prancing about the stage with a burning candelabra on his head, all while humping his bass player and running away from the Fire Marshall- but quite exceptional. The group inspired me, and my band soon added covers of "Your My Girl" "When You Say You're Sorry", and "That Time of the Year" to our repertoire. By the way, one of my companions that night was my long-time roommate, Bill O'Reilly. Yes, the one and the same. He didn't quite "get" Rhinoceros. O'Reilly's more of a Jay and the Techniques type of guy.
Joe Rubino <JMRubino@aol.com>
USA

i was a roadie for the crazy world of arthur brown & got to know jeff cutler quite well - it was'nt long before i got to hear & meet the cats in Rhinocerous -
Danny if you read this, shoot me an email cause i can't get hold of you - i can't even get to be a buddy on yer myspace - Thanx & God bless y'all -
http://steelguitarfrance.com
James Crowbear <zumbody2@gmail.com>
France

I saw Rhinoceros in a club called The Black Dome in Cincinnati. I got my albums out today and still love them. We went to a party after the show and I met Danny and Alan. I still tell people what a good show.
Donna <dmorsbach@aol.com>
usa

wow......a rhinoceros web site. Hard for me to believe. I just played both #1 and satin chickens on lp and it sounded fresh but did bring me back to that time. I never owned or for that matter heard the 3rd lp. Never saw the band live nor do I recall any concerts in Colorado (my home). They came and went fairly quickly. I purchased #1 lp from woolworths in 1968 or 69. Not because it had been recommended to me but because of the very cool artwork of gene szafran. Hell, I bought the first Jefferson Airplane lp for the same reason. Anyway I have always enjoyed the guitar work, funky organ and john's soulfull vocals can mix with any great old time blues, r&;b both old and new. Glad you folks touched my life even if in a small way. Regards Harry Truitt
harry truitt <ironheadxlch@msn.com>
usa

Hi Danny:

Just saying hello and remembering wonderful Rhinoceros shows at Central Park band-shell (with Jefferson Airplane?) and Randall's Island (maybe where that film clip came from). Your playing in particular was an inspiration and, hey, what cover band _wasn't_ playing Apricot Brandy in their set back then? Funny, when you are 15, (as I was in 1969) you remember odd tid-bits, like my memory of your playing an entire solo bending one note on the fretboard... "you just can't do that!" was my reaction, but I still recall that solo like it was yesterday. Your new material sounds great.. glad to see you on the web. Best regards.
Don Wershba <dwershba@optonline.net>
USA

"Apricot Brandy" is one of my favourite instrumentals and when I used to dj a bit, this song was pretty much the theme tune. I discovered it on a psychedelic picturs disc compilation that had a very obscure tracklisting but I always knew which side it was when "Apricot Brandy"came on. It has one of my most revered hi-hat bits EVER!!!!
Nic <haclabel@mpx.com.au>
Australia

I first got to hear Apricot Brany when Jeff Dexter played it at Roundhouse, Chalk Farm during the Implosion Gigs and possilby Middle Earth.

In those days that one turned us in those days, into Amphetamine Gazelles.
Bob ap Rhys ap Rhys <sameko7@blueyonder>
United Kingdom

I saw Rhinoceros' first Fillmore East show (October 25, 1968?) with the Moody Blues (their first US appearance - had all sorts of problems due to the difference between US and UK voltage standards, ended up doing a brilliant set with borrowed gear) and John Mayall's Blues Breakers and was totally blown away by the group. Went right out and bought their first album and treasure it to this day. Glad to see there is still interest in the group.
Ron Rehfeld <rmongoos@sympatico.ca>
Canada/US

When I first started playing music around that time, it was all about Rhinoceros and Mandala. I wore out 3 copies of the first Rhinoceros album - now I want all of them on CD - DO IT so I can convince all my friends and colleagues who say "who" when I mention them. Come to Ottawa
Davd 'Jake' Newman <dnewman@rogers.com>
Canada

Just listening to my vinyl Rhinoceros LPs for the 1st time in ages - still stunning !!
Mike Gordon <mikegordon07@btinternet.com>
UK

I'm 25 years old now and when I was about 14 I got to go through an old storage bin of my dad's that had a few milk crates full of vinyl. The usuals were there, Beatles, Hendrix, Dylan, etc. And there was Rhinoceros. What the freak was this! Dad said it kicked ass and ass it did kick!
James Marshall Gaddis <jim_75062@peoplepc.com>
United States

First id like to thank the host and administor of this website for giving me the ability to look into my own family's history.Lee Jackson is my dad and its been a real treat to see some of the old photos and stuff from long before i was born.i happen to have alot of old clippings aswell as the original airing of the cbc documentary . if the website has interest i would gladly donate some of it .To keep you and anyone interested posted Lee Jackson (contrary to popular beleif haha)is alive and well and still lives in the toronto area . ive attached my email so drop us a line sometime and thanks again for the memories .
Michael Ferry(Jackson)JR <X_V_I_I@hotmail.com>
canada

Too long a story to get into here, but I've just flashed back a lot of years to the best time of my life. Thanks for the memories Mouse
Janet Powell <janet.powell1@optusnet.com.au>
Australia

i live in a small town north of T.O. in this town is a small (60 seats) blues bar called the happy hog. one night in may this band id never heard of (John Finley and the Checkmates)was playing .they blew me, and everone else there, away. there couldn't have been more than thirty people. the band brought some freinds (danny weis and others) and the band was up to eight people at one piont. the stage is built for a three piece. i was worried they would bump into eachother and get hurt and stop the show. that night was awesome, and iv bugged all my freinds about them ever since. i bought their CD and listen to it all the time (like right now). they're coming back in two weeks and i can't wait to catch them again. and agian and again.

thanks for signing the cd guys
mike jones <mikejones_6@sympatico.ca>
canada

Hello. I used to be a friend of Jerry Penrod and his wife way back in the early 70's in San Diego. I would love to write him a letter if anyone knows how I could contact the Penrods. Thank you.

Bette
(who used to be with George Gillette at the time)
Bette <BTippen2@aol.com>
USA

I had the pleasure of jamming with Danny many years ago when we were teenagers in El Cajon,CA where I grew up. Danny came over a couple of times and played his guitar. It didn't take long for me to realize he was doing stuff that was beyond our level of music. I am so pleased to see that he went on to do what we all loved, play music, be creative and share what we have come up with... GROVE that is in the pocket! Keep on jammin"

Paco Trujillo

Frank (Paco) Trujillo
USA

Back in the good days of music the guys on the corner and I would head down to the ex under 21 club in TO when TO was top city man was it hot where Jon And Lee played the BEST LIVE RB act EVER those nights take care all............
jack <jac22222@hotmail.com>
canada

Ah, yes. Rhinoceros is the band that got away. I LOVED their first album with its powerful twin lead vocals and all that filthy funk tucked into the upbeat grooves. being a Midwesterner, I wasn't aware of all the "supergroup" hype accompanying them...I just knew I was crazy about the sound they made together. I'd been familiar with Iron Butterfly, Daily Flash and some of the other bands from whence they came, but Rhino was different from all that had gone before as well as from anything else going on at the time. Bless you all, gentlemen; I miss you to this day!
SweetLittle16 <wholelottashakin@hotmail.com>
USA

I attended the University of Hartford gig in 1969. Then a funny thing happened. I woke up and I was 52.
Wendy <newzealandwool@aol.com>
USA

I socialized with John and Larry back in the 60's when they jammed in Larry's basement in Willowdale. Bob Hughes and I often visited Larry at his home. I often think of both of them. Both wonderful and talented. I hope all is well with both.
Linda <antonwriter@yahoo.ca>
Canada

Hey there,

I remember seeing Rhinoceros play at Aaron Russo's Kinetic Playground in...I believe 1968. You had that bass player with the HUGE mustache and hands like hams. :) I think you opened for BS&;T and I was blown away by the energy of the band and the songs! I didn't see this gig listed on your "list" for that year, so you might want to update it?
Steve Crosse <celtic_hound@hotmail.com>
USA

I still listen 2 your first LP liked it 2 years, got ya on my web site. www.corock.ca on the classic page sorry i really never get past bands 1st lp's but there's just so many. Anyway Thanks 4 the tunes Peace.
CoRock
Canada

Thanks for the checkmates truly a blast from the past to hear "bring it down front,, and porkchops" again too bad there not
being re-released I'am sure i wouldn't be the only one that would buy them hint hint ,, rock-on
joe sarino <joesa@sympatico.ca>
canada

Hi all! --discovered a couple Billy Mundi sites/discographies: eminently useful for scoring his many 'sides' [he remains my favest drummer! Long live that
'BAK-oom-BAK-oom-BAKKA-doom-BAK-oom' groove]

http://www.muscleheadmusic.com/mundi.htm

http://www.thecoolgroove.com/bmundi.html
ge
usa

I had the pleasure of seeing Rhinoceros in the late 60's at the Black Dome in Cincinnati, Ohio close to the University of Cincinnati campus. They blew me away and are one of my all time favorite bands. I no longer have all my vinyl albums and am in the process of looking for a Rhinoceros CD and am enjoying reading all the comments and seeing how many others agree with me regarding this exceptional talent.
Donna Campbell <donna1a@aol.com>
United States

satin chickens was one of my favorite albums. loved "back door', "monkey man", almost every song. thanks to the internet, i can finally replace my vinyl with the combo cd
jim king
United States

Wonderful to see the band is stiil alive. I bougt the first album in 1970 in Germany when I was in the army. Great band. I hope they will ever come Europe for a convert!

Dick Allewelt <dick.allewelt@planet.nl>
Netherlands

I had a band in 1970 that played a few Rhinoceros songs. Apricot Brandy went over
pretty well !
Now I see that at least one other band covered Rhino. Mind boggling !
Well I love the band, esp. the first album !
Live long and prosper
ken d <guitarman_k200@yahoo.com>
usa

I saw Rhinoceros at Seneca College the year they formed. As I recall, they had former Mother's drummer ? Mumy on drums.

Ken <kmphoto@insight.rr.com>
USA

JUST SAW YOU THREE AT THE LIQUID LOUNGE IN BRANTFORD, SOUNDING PRETTY GOOD!! TOO BAD YOU COULN'T DO FANNIE MAE. SAW MICHAEL AT THE PORT CREDIT BLUESFEST WITH DANNY BROOKS AND I BET THIS WAS A MORE COMFORTABLE VENUE WITHOUT THAT COOL LAKE ONTARIO BREEZE BLOWING. HOPE TO SEE YOU AGAIN, THNAX
VIC

In 1969, our band "The Bearded Clam" covered
the "Rhinoceros" album. We were immediate
devotees to their enormously creative, progressive and captivating sound. As a "circuit" opening band for "The Soul Survivors", Billy Harner, and "The Children of the Night", we developed quite a following in Atlantic City and Philadelphia area. Now 55, and still performing, I have been seeking authenic lyrics to these songs; one in particular, "When you say you're sorry". Amazingly, it can not to be found on any search engines. I have made a comprehensive search to no avail. During my life I have listened to, and seen thousands of bands; I will always identify "Rhinoceros" as having a timeless sound that will always move, touch and inspire me and those I turn onto this extraordinary ensemble. If someone could help
me with a printable version of Gerber/Rhinoceros lyrics, i will be eternally grateful. Finally, I am a recognized funk/rock/jazz/blues/reggae mandolin/guitar instrumentalist/singer songwriter. I would love to get together sometime and jam. Most recently I spent time with George Benson and Al Jarreau (sp.) when they performed at the Mann Music Center in Philadelphia.

Righteous Rob <sunman305@aol.com>
USA

I had a band called Kimberley in New York 1967~1970, played guitar and remember hanging out one day with Danny. Rhinoceros was doing a gig that night in the park I believe, and Danny was gracious enough to let me tag along as we wondered through the city down to the Village where we met up with Janis Joplin at her hotel.

I partnered up with friends in Bangkok and have a radio station here called 98.5 Breeze FM where i do Morning Drive.

Danny, if you read this and by some chance remember any of this....that's a stretch...get in touch at
www.985breezefm.com

Thanks and Sawadee from The Land Of Smiles,
Richie Walker
Morning Show Host / Music Director
98.5 Breeze FM
www.985breezefm.com

Richie Walker <richie_walker@hotmail.com>
Thailand

I was at that Pavillion show at Flushing meadows back in '69. It was my birthday, or the day before, and it was one of then first--and best--concerts I've ever been to. Spooky Tooth did a great opening set, and then Rhinoceros came out and blew everyone away. The really amazing thing was, after the headliner--Stepenwolf--finished their set, the crowd started calling for an encore... of Rhinoceros! And they came back out after Stepenwolf and played another set. You guys had us in the palms of your sweaty hands.
Roger Goode <roger@properpup.com>
USA

I love you guys I am glad I found this site. we danced and sang in Danbury Conn. a long time ago I'll always have that secret crush on Danny ,after Conn. I returned to long island and formed Fearless Nipples 2 chicks 8 band members with a very new sound back then!
Still my number one music Best band too bad we never made music together I was unfortunately much younger than you guys then I moved to Europe Still feeling the music however! Good Luck stay well
denise <bighoox@aol.com>
usa

Saw the Checkmates this past weekend in Toronto, Smokin band incredible show, John was celebrating a Birthday , I had to travel about 6 hours to get to the show and it was worth every second!!!!! The band covered some Rhino stuff some SoulBop All in all it was a incredible weekend !!! If you get the chance see the Checkmates or as my younger brother called them CHECKNAURSOUS LOL
DougDDoug Dandenoou
Canada

I have checked the web before for info on Rhinoceros, and today I found this. I told my son it was like reaquainting with an old friend I hadn't seen in years.

I no longer have my album though.

J
J Beech <mygoldenyears@hotmail.com>
Canada

It's great to find this site , and find out how well everyone is doing. I have been a fan for many years, back to the days with the checkmates in Hamilton at the boogaloo, The Grange and sunday night at st. nicks. Rhinoceros is still my favorite group. Thankyou for the great music and fond memories. I wish you all well !!

thanks John
john palmer <plmrjj@sympatico.ca>
canada

John:

A friend and I happened into a small teenage nightclub called "The Cellar" in Arlington Heights, Illinois and saw you guys (I think it was around 69'.) Your show was one of the best I had ever seen.

You, John, were absolutley remarkable - a true original talent of the highest degree. In the course of my concert going days I saw Zeppelin, the Stones, the Dead, all the biggies. You guys were one of the five best groups I saw live. I bought your album Apricot Brandy and turned others on to it. It is still a masterpiece that stands the test of time.

And you, John Finley, are still my favorite singer. I always wondered why you guys were so touchy-feely with each other on stage. I never observed a group so happy together.

Glad to see you're alive and well, AND still singing away. You're the greatest, John!

Charles


Chares <cratkins50@earthlink.net>
USA

The first time I got stoned on pot, someone put on the 1st Rhino album and Apricot Brandy set me free! Since then, it's been one of my favorites and thankfully someone saw fit to put out the CD-thank you!
Thomas "T-Bone" Filip
USA

For all of you who thought Danny was a killer guitar player before, go buy the Sweet Spot album!! He has outdone himself on this one! Bought it last week and haven't been able to stop listening to it. He shows all the "smooth jazz" players what they'd like to sound like. And the funk is awesome! Thanks Danny, it was worth the wait!! Now you need to start touring behind the album. Maybe NYC??
Arte O'Dell <ankhafnakhonsu@aol.com>
U.S.A.

Wow, I didn't know the first album was available on CD. I saw the group back in maybe '69 at The Filmore East. I think the lineup that night was Rhinoceros, John Mayall, and The Moody Blues.
JohnJohn <sculpey_2462@msn.com>
USA

Like Glenn (couple of posts ago), I found myself humming "I Will Serenade You" the other day after 35 years. Found the first album a few days later on Yonge Street, and away we go. It's a masterpiece of funky precision and soul. Not a moment in it worth missing. Wow! Thanks for the wonderful interviews, history, and great site.

Doug
Toronto

Cool Website. One of the bands I played in did
Rhino songs-Apricot Brandy-Don't Wanna Discuss It-Don't Come Cryin.
Recently ordered the cd's/ Was surprised to find the third album.
Really enjoyed this band.
dana groff <danagroff10@aol.com>
U.S.

As I sit here listening to "Rhinoceros" I am instantly transported back to a time of peace and love. At 58yrs young the journey is not that far when I listen to the music. The music of the 60's is coming full circle again and boy am I happy! Bring it on Rhinoceros!!
Danny Brot <mdbassman@juno.com>
USA

I woke up this morning with "I will serenade you" going round and round in my head...what-35 years after I last heard it! Playing in a soul/funk band now, I realize that the songs from the first album and a few from Satin Chickens have legs and will still move people! Thank you for developing and maintaining this site...I'll be back!
Glenn Goodwin <glenngoodwinbass@hotmail.com>
USA

I Truly enjoyed my two rhinoceros albums I had in high school and college. I even had one on 8-track. I need to find an mp3 version of "In A Little Room". Since I am a deejay in Nebraska, it would be great to play it for my audience.
Greg Jackson <newsanchor49@hotmail.com>
USA

I was in a local Band from Greenwich, Conn. and was the warmup act for Rhinocerous at the St. Mary's gig in '79. I was blown away by these guys, and to this day, their first albumn is one of my favorites. "Your My Girl", "Chicken", "I Need Love" live found my jaw wide open. I miss this kind of magic!
Bruce <bruceltaylor@earthlink.net>
USA

Saw them at the Fillmore East in 1969 Totally blew me away bought the album next day I seem to remember a big Hammond Organ on stage. Love Apricot Brandy wished there was along version or live version somewhere !!
Steve Katz
USA

I went to a private boarding school for high school. Somehow Rhinoceros got to be very popular with us kids. In the spring or summer of 1969, while on vacation in NYC, a group of us went to the Wolman Rink in Central Park and saw them. The opening act was the Crazy World of Arthur Brown. It was the first rock concert I ever went to and I still remember the joy I felt there!
Thank you for this great site!
Rick <Senseandspirit@yahoo.com>
USA

I saw the Checkmates perform as the opening act for Ronnie Hawkins at his farewell concert at Massey Hall in Toronto, last night Dec.17/05. The treat of the night was that John Finley was brought on as the surprise guest to perform with the Checkmates. All the memories of John & Lee and the Checkmates came flooding back. John was amazing and the band was solid. They did a set of R&;B standards and classics. Rumor has it that John is going to get together with the Checkmates to work on a future project. I sure hope that happens. It was great to see John and the Checkmates make a return to Massey Hall and at the same time sad to see Ronnie go.
Don <dwh@rogers.com>
Canada

It has been great to find this site. As someone who has always been a fan this is great. I was looking at the live dates and noticed that there was not one showing for Seneca College in Toronto. I was sure I saw them there I could not give you a date. But I'm positive they were there. Maybe someone out there remebers that gig.
Paul <garlyn@msn.com>
Canada

In 1969, I was a 17 year old college freshman with a on-campus one hour radio slot. My friends and I at this tiny state college radio station would grab the mail every day, knowing that there would always be several promo records from record companies, both big and independent. One Friday, the single 'Apricot Brandy' arrived, with 'When You Say You're Sorry' as the B side. Since the DJs had pretty much full reign to play whatever they wished, and since records were hardly ever screened or "OK'd" before being aired, 'Apricot Brandy' very likely had its East Coast debut on my Friday show at 4 PM. Since I always played requests, 'AB' was aired at least three times in that hour; I invariably played it once each show for the rest of the semester. I still have in my possession that 45 single, extensively scratched, but still an electrifying rocker after 30 + years.
needles <needles@twcny.rr.com>
USA

I found the first album of Rhinoceros at a used record shop...snagged it right up! Sure brings back some sweet heavy times. My Brother knew Danny Weis, Doug Hastings and Jerry Penrod. He was in the same click in LA, he saw the same struggles and lived the same disapointments. I am glad to see that some persevered on. Peace, light...further on. Robert Morgan.
In Loving Memory of Ron Morgan (West Coast Pop Art Experimental Band).
Robert Morgan <medullaarts@comcast.net>
USA

To this very day, "Apricot Brandy" is still one of my all time favorite song. I've had a PC, since 2000, and I was stunned when I found your web page today. For Rhinoceros, to be remembered like this is truly an honor that is long overdue. It is so sad, that your group, along with so many other groups never get their "day in the sun." When your group followed up "Apricot Brandy", with "I Need Love", I just knew that a new supergroup had been born. That song has so much energy in it, I felt, as if, the music was coming out of the speakers, when I would hear it on the radio. Even though, Rhinoceros isn't remembered by everyone, I remember you, and I wanted to take time out to thank you, for being a pleasant part of my past that is gone, but...not forgotten. May God embrace you, with His love.
William <THEBADVEGETARIAN@aol.com>
U.S.A.

let's see..1'st road trip of my life to boston to see rhino.. at pratt institute..waiting outside b-4 soundcheck john walks by and disdainfully spits on the steps.. at the "dynamite" in brooklyn, got to talk with michael about the making of satin chickens..one of my clique goes to live with the red headed bass player in upstate n.y. at the band's house...one of the greatest bands ever, and one of the reasons i've been a musician all my life...thanks.
joel krauss <joelmusic@optonline.com>
usa

In fact...I have the three Rhinoceros lps right here by my desk, I brought them in to show someone the great cover design. I have a couple of really good stories but I'll just say that I rode up an elevator with Danny Weis a few months ago. He was playing in a band with Paul Quarrington and Rick Bell...they were great!
Dave <kidneyd@mcmaster.ca>
Canada

Just bought the second album at a used record store yesterday. Didn't know much about the band, and your site is very helpful in learning about them. A great resource. Thanks!
Jim Sadler <jcs@northcarolina.edu>
USA

Danny Weis is the GREATEST guitar player ever!

Danny is actually my stepdad,for real,i'm not even joking.

luv ya danny
from
Haley
Haley <Sweet_Girl1718@hotmail.com>
Toronto

It's June 3rd ,2005 and in a week I will turn 60 but today I feel like a young 18 year old because I am going tonight to see one of my favorite groups - John & Lee and the Checkmates at the Fox and Fiddle!

Wow-what memories! I had the fortune at that young age to fall into dance/concert promotion and hired the group many times in Burlington and Hamilton gigs. I never tired of hearing " the Harlem Shuffle " and of course " Please,Please" by 2 young white guys with the hearts and voices of the southern blues masters.

After booking groups like: Myna Byrds, Ronnie Hawkins, The Sparrow, Luke & the Apostles, Eric Burdon & the Animals, wilson Pickett, Spencer Davis, Junior Walker, The Hollies, Ike & Tina Turner to name a few - THE CHECKMATES ARE STILL AT THE TOP OF MY LIST FOR SHOWMANSHIP,TALENT AND JUST A GOOD GROUP OF GUYS TO WORK WITH.

Going to shower and pick up my OZOB buddy Henry Bokor (Guitarist) to see one of his guitar idles from 1966.

Love the web page and info-keep it up!
Steve Remen <remen@execulink.com>
Canada

Seeing John and Michael perform with the other Checkmates at Hollywood on the Queensway in Toronto on May 17 brought back fond memories for me. I was a huge fan of the Checkmates and Rhinoceros.

I'll never forget one evening in late 1968 when my mother's organ teacher came to the house to give her a lesson. He looked at me with my long hippie hair and said, "Have you heard of that new super group, Rhinoceros?" When I replied yes, he said, "I taught the keyboard player, Michael Fonfara. Was I impressed! I suddenly a greater respect for my mother, too.

Living in the Toronto area most of my life, I have had the benefit and pleasure of catching Michael Fonfara on a regular basis in the various bands of which he is a member, especially over the past decade or so since he got off the road with the likes of Lou Reed. Of course, it's always a rare treat when John is in town. I'm amazed at how he and his Toronto contemporaries, such as George Olliver, Luke Gibson and Grant Smith, have maintained their extraordinary vocal skills over such a long period of time.

There'll never be another era in music like the Toronto music scene in the '60s -- a decade that, in addition to Jon and Lee and the Checkmates and Rhinoceros, spawned John Kay and the Sparrows, David Clayton Thomas and the Shays, Neil Young, Rick James, Joni Mitchell, Bruce Cockburn, the Downchild Blues Band, the Mandela, Luke and the Apostles, McKenna Mendelson Mainline, Nucleus, Roy Kenner and the Associates, Grant Smith and the Power, Whiskey Howl and many others. Domenic Troiano of the Mandela and later Bush was a big inspiration for The James Gang, featuring Joe Walsh.

No wonder the city is called "Toronto the Good".
Dave Hunter <d.s.hunter@sympatico.ca>
Canada

As always, my visit to this site was extremely enjoyable. Each visit provides another tidbit of background on what I think is one of the greatest bands of all times. John Finley's vocals are simply the best. The man is Mr. Soul with a capital S.

In John's interview there is reference to a CBC documentary about the band. If anyone could provide me with information how I might track a copy of this down, please email me. It would definitely be a keepsake for my collection.
Peter "Vic" Vickery <pdv_@hotmail.com>
Toronto, Canada

John Finley and his amazing vocals has been an inspiration to me my whole life... ever since I saw Jon & Lee & The Checkmates at the Broom and Stone in Toronto, Canada in the '60's. I'm fairly certain that John had a broken leg or ankle at the time with this HUGE cast on - didn't hamper the passion of the performance though - the cast just become a prop for the show! And what a show it was!! When I heard "Bring It Down Front" at that gig I thought I'd died and gone to heaven...that was the moment I knew I had to play the Hammond till I dropped - and I'm still playin' it with that song in my head. Thanks don't cut it - but thanks anyway!
John Leiher <litljohn@mac.com>
Canada

I've looked and looked over the years for updated versions of all three of the Rhinoceros records and here they are! Awesome! I cut my early guitar-playing teeth on their songs and learned early to appreciate how excellent these guys were on their instruments. Ron Stockert, former keyboardist with Rufus, turned me on to Rhinoceros when we were in a band together in Peoria, IL in 1969 (before he headed west to hook up with Chaka). He spent long times at practice trying to show me the licks these guys were playing. I think I frustrated him more than helped!

I still love their music and still greatly admire the musicianship and singing on all three albums. Really high quality stuff from some really high quality musicians! Thanks to whomever put this site together. This band deserves it!
Joe Grier <dotnjoe@new.rr.com>
USA

As a professional musician from the (rightly) famed 70's New Jersey "A Circuit" that spawned (among others) that "Born to Run" guy, I tell you that Rhinoceros was one of only a handful of bands that had the attention of the players from that rough and tumble scene. Genuine is the best way to describe Rhinoceros. The first album, like The Band's second, the first Ian Hunter solo album and Clapton's "Layla" is part of the literature of in-the-pocket rock. Musicians: play like this. Everybody else: thank God and dig it.
Mr. E. Guest
USA

One of the best of the era--RHINO and Vanilla Fudge will always be my Fav's --rock on!!
Dave (B3) Nnatterson <music2ya@aol.com>
USA