CARLOS SANTANA & JOHN MCLAUGHLIN: LOVE DEVOTION SURRENDER

Second Carlos Santana solo album is a gem. If there are plenty of blues-rock or psychodelic- rock roots in "Santana" band early albums ( I love them all as well), this album is pure fusion. Of course, main reason of these changes is partnership with great jazz-rock guitarist John McLaughlin ( and almost all important members of his band - Billy Cobham/Jan Hammer - are participated on this record as well).

We have long compositions there mainly filled with soft guitar duelling between two great guitarists from different worlds - british jazz-rock hero McLaughlin and mexican/american Latin -rock star Carlos Santana. Music consists mainly of melted guitar soloing ,but not agressive, as in rock tradition, but soft rounded, with strong Latin scent. Of course, some roots of Indian musical culture presented there as well.

A bit pity that perfect rhythm section is used there only as background for two great guitarists. But all in all, the album is great combination of two styles melted in one - real FUSION.

Highly recommended for all fusion lovers! Could be a bit unusual for fans of early Santana's band works.