THE SWING OF DELIGHT

I can hardly consider this album as being of the same quality than either the great ''Santana'' bands efforts or the early ''Love Devotion Surrender'' solo one. This ''The Swing of Delight'' is just an unlimited and difficult jazzy session of the man.

There are little to none delights to appear on this album; at times some genuine ''Santana'' sounds are shining like during the tranquil ''Love Theme From Spartacus''; but these items are quite isolated to be honest.

The great man won't forget to display his skills and talent in a track like ''Love Theme From Spartacus'', but so little moments are just scarce and leave me almost breathless while listening to this album.

I was of course not expecting any great stuff from the man in these early eighties. After all, Carlos only produced extremely weak efforts during these years: being with his band or during solo efforts like this one. Some tracks are OK though (''Phuler Matan'') but none is going to raise my attention to feel like I am listening to a very good album. On the contrary, it is very average stuff which is available in here.

Prog feeling is extremely alien to this jazz album. But it is not the first one of this genre to generate the same impression. Some good guitar breaks (''Song For My Brother'') are highlighting this average album: but isn't it the least we could expect from the great man?

This album is also extremely long (almost sixty minutes), and most of these seven minutes tracks (six in total) are just uninspired to be true (''Jharma Kala''). As a ''Santana'' fan, I just can't swallow such a track. Press next to avoid boredom.

The best number featured in here is the ''Samba Pa Ti'' derivate ''Gardenia''. Carlos produced a lot of these on the band's albums in the seventies and eighties. Since the mayonnaise had a jolly smell, there is no wonder that Carlos did intend to play some other passionate and great instrumental. Needless to say that this one is by far the best track from this album.

To be honest, it was not very difficult. The poor ''La Llave'' (the key) is just another dull filler as far as I am concerned. It is only highlighted by the good percussion work. The great man is of course on duty during the ''Golden Hours'' jam. Splendid musicianship throughout and a desperate beat is bound to please any burning ''Santana'' fan. It is one of the best track available.

This album is really average and prog is below average. Two stars, no more. Múevete, Carlos. No seas payaso!!!!