SANTANA 3

SANTANA's first four studio albums stand up pretty well to any band's first four records. These guys were on a roll and with this their third album they add some fire in a second lead guitarist (Neal Schon) and also a new percussionist.Carlos says "Around the time of the third album I always heard two guitar players, Eric Clapton and Duane Allman, or Boz Scaggs with Duane, or Peter Green with all the other guitar players that he had". It is true to say that this third album was the last of the Woodstock-era SANTANA band.

"Batuka" and the next song are two of my top three tracks from this album. Percussion to start as guitar joins in. This sounds amazing especially the guitar. Just a killer opener that blends into "No One To Depend On" where it settles right down quickly. Organ, guitar and vocals lead. Amazing sound 3 1/2 minutes in. "Taboo" is a relaxing tune with vocals. Love how passionate it gets 4 minutes in to the end.

"Toussaint L'Overture" is uptempo with so much going on. Vocals 2 1/2 minutes in. The guitar comes to the fore late. "Everybody's Everything" is by far my least favourite track. The Tower Of Power horn section and the funk flavour just don't do it for me. "Guajara" on the other hand does. A sexy Latin feel good tune. "Jungle Strut" is my other top three. It kicks in quickly with the drums,organ and guitar all sounding so good. "Everything's Coming Our Way" has some good contrtasts throughout. It's hard not to like this catchy tune. "Para Los Rumberos" is uptempo with lots of percussion. Vocals too in this one.

If your new to SANTANA and see any of their first four studio albums don't even hesitate. Buy ! I don't know why but this music reminds me of summer in the seventies. All but a memory. By the way the three bonus tracks on my issue are excellent.They're live tunes from "Live At The Filmore West" July 4,1971.