Thanks again for another brilliant night
of music @ Tropic (Friday, 9th. October) Samtana
are like sunshine on a cloudy day and played a fabulous set of classic
SANTANA music, which leaves you with a warm glow inside.
The purity of tone and precision soloing of the guitarist "Carlos" was a
joy to behold, as was the muscular drumming and powerhouse percussion
playing. The singer was great also, with terrific dynamic presence, and
being able to double on sax was a big bonus. The multi rhythms were
anchored by a solid and pulsating bass, the line-up being augmented by
some stylish Hammond organ grooves.
The set itself centred primarily around the first three SANTANA albums -
"SANTANA", "ABRAXAS" and "SANTANA 3" and gave us superb renditions of SE
A CABO, OYE COMO VA, TOUSSAINT L'OVERTURE and a personal mid-point high
point of the peerless SAMBA PA TI (Samba For You). Famous SANTANA covers
included BLACK MAGIC WOMAN (Fleetwood Mac), SHE'S NOT THERE (Zombies)
and the not so well known THEM CHANGES (Jimi Hendrix & Band of Gypsies).
Later mid period SANTANA was represented by LET THE CHILDREN PLAY (from
FESTIVAL) and the set closer was a storming SOUL SACRIFICE, which was an
absolute percussion tour-de-force!
The encore was JINGO and SMOOTH which
perfectly encapsulated the 'ancient & modern' (1st Album &
Supernatural).
To summarise this was an excellent gig played to a
knowledgeable and highly appreciative audience (bring your friends next
time - they missed a treat!) It was marvellous to see a BAND that loves
playing the music we all love.
LOVE MUSIC, LOVE SAMTANA! 10/10. Highly Recommended.
