SACRED FIRE (LIVE IN MEXICO)

I must have seen SANTANA on stage at least 8 times plus a huge number of videos, concert films and bootlegs but never had the chance to appreciate him playing with such enthusiasm as in "Sacred Fire" filmed in his native Mexico.

Seems like the call of the blood is very strong in him and Carlos gives all he has for his people, this identification is so strong his musicians from different coutries seem inspired by this spirit and also offer us an spectacular performance with no weak spots..

If we need to talk about the musicians, it's necessary to highlight the presence of Chester Thompson who is simply amazing with the keyboards. Sounds as a Cuban pianist when playing "Oye Como Va" by the "maestro" Tito Puente or the traditional "Guajira" with arrangements by José Chepito Areas (Legendary musician and former SANTANA percussionist), but he is also able to sound as a San Francisco Psychedelic keyboardist during the late 60's in tracks as "Black Magic Woman" or "Soul Sacrifice", there's no difference for him, always adequate changing of style when required as a human chameleon.

Jorge Santana (Carlos youngest sibling) has a very similar guitar style to his famous brother but of course not as skilled (well hardly anybody is as skilled), despite this fact he's always accurate, he even offers a couple of very convincing solos.

Traditionally the strength of SANTANA (Apart from the guitar) has rested in the rich and eclectic rhythm section and mainly in the percussion....."Sacred Fire" is not the exception, Walfredo Reyes on drums, the spectacular Raul Rekow in the congas and Karl Perazo playing the timbales make a perfect team with Myron Dove who adds the required power with his bass.

The vocals are also outstanding with the already member of Santana family Alex Ligertwood supported by the force of Vorriece Cooper.

I believe it's unnecessary to talk about the individual tracks because all are well known including material from all his career, the sound is very good and the picture also but the most emotional sections are when Carlos Santana appears surrounded by beautiful Colonial landscapes from Mexico, specially in the nostalgic "Europe".

But the review wouldn't be complete without mentioning the public, who surrenders to their famous compatriot and some señoritas almost in a mystic trance showing a bit of their attributes to the cameras.

I don't care if it's 100% Prog or not, neither if some people believe I'm being subjective or consider me a fanboy, I honestly believe beyond any reasonable doubt than this release is 5 stars material, if you don't own a SANTANA DVD, forget "Supernatural Live" and go for "Sacred Fire", no possible regret.