Santana’s original members get back to their spiritual essence

Santana IV is less about “getting the band back together” and more about getting back to the spiritual essence. From 1969 to 1973, Santana hit upon a tricolour of styles—Afro-Cuban rhythms, sizzling FM rock and flowing jazz. Over 45 years later, Santana proudly flies the fusion flag—all bright colours moving to a supple conga beat. Neal Schon and Carlos Santana can be picked out by keen-earned listeners—Carlos with the accents and melody, Neal with the finger-flicking heat. It warms the heart to hear Gregg Rolie’s familiar voice. Guest vocalist Ronald Isley lends his to “Love Makes the World Go Round” and “Freedom in Your Mind”—it’s progressive in both music and message.