After a split from The Tropics, Eric Turner & Charlie Souza sought a more progressive form of rock music, and together with drummer Bill Peterson became BACCHUS. After many record releases, the band was the opening act on concerts featuring GRAND FUNK RAILROAD, FREE, LYNNRD SKYNNRD, BB KING, CACTUS, The OUTLAWS, REDBONE, EDGAR WINTER, and TED NUGENT. The band became a three piece group to be reckoned with after playing on the USO Tour in Puerto Rico. Bacchus had the honor to open a concert for MAHAVISHNU ORCHESTRA, and also appeared on the free stage at the Atlanta Pop Festival, just before Grand Funk Railroad on the main stage.