Monday, March 7, 2011

#76: Santana - Abraxas (1970)


Emily: Carlos Santana is one of the best guitar players of all time, and that definitely shines through on Abraxas. The lyrics are kept to an absolute minimum to make the instruments the stars of the show. The songs can speak without words because Santana doesn't just play his guitar, he feels with it. Every note is fused with emotion, an emotion that can resonate with any listener. Combine that with rock roots, Latin rhythms, and a hint of jazz, and you end up with a classic album that proves why Santana has reigned as a supreme guitar god for his entire career.
Favorite Tracks: Samba Pa Ti; Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen; Se a Cabo

Zack: This album bitch slaps you with its Latin passion. It salsas all over your soul. And if you don’t enjoy it, then I don’t know what’s wrong with you. It’s smooth and sultry but still rockin’, like Marvin Gaye’s voice played through Jeff Beck’s guitar with some maracas for good measure. In short, it’s fantastic. Furthermore, I can’t believe its 40 years old. The album is just so timeless that dating it feels weird. Whether you play Abraxas 40 years ago, today, or 100 years from now, it will always sound transcendentally modern.
Favorite Tracks: Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen; Hope You’re Feeling Better; Oye Como Va

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