Santana
Multi-Dimensional Warrior
Sony Legacy
By George W. Harris

This two disc retrospective of Carlos Santana is quite unique in that, unlike other collections, its theme is not rooted in hits or misses. Instead, Santana’s spiritual journey is traced through the two discs; one being via instrumentals, and the other featuring songs with vocals. What is quite striking about the lyrics, especially in contrast to 90% of what is presently being sung on the airwaves, is how positive and hopeful these songs are. Songs about looking forward to heaven, searching for peace amidst a world in conflict, finding God’s grace in everyday life, and looking for God’s Kingdom are just some of the encouraging topics during Santana’s progress as a pilgrim

The second disc is a fitting testimony to Santana’s individualistic sound as a guitarist. Within two notes, it can be confused with no other six stringer. Songs ranging from the romantic 1970 “Samba Pi Ti” to 1999’s Grammy winning “El Farol display the duration of his high quality playing. Most intriguing are the songs from the trio collaboration with Santana along with his brother and nephew, which delivered the gorgeous version of Rodrigo’s “En Aranjuez Con Tu Amor”. Guitar fans will find some way to wear out this disc. It’s essential listening.