SPIRITS DANCING IN THE FLESH

Spirits Dancing In The Flesh was Santana's last separate studio entry on the Columbia label, and the group's best album of the nineties. This record has nothing to do with dancing however. Instead, Carlos articulates some fairly profound philosophical ideas on this well-produced and lively release. The line-up of the nineties has gelled and Spirits Dancing in the Flesh shows it.

Alex Ligertwood is at his absolute best as he returns once again to front this incredible band Chester Thompson has now secured a management position within the group hierarchy, showing to be much more than a Pancho to Carlos' Cisco. Even now CT and Carlos travel as a team to guest with different musicians. They have discovered how to play as one and make up one of the greatest duos in music; they communicate wordlessly seeming to be able to anticipate each other's nods and leads.

The title song begins the song-set with gusto, but all the songs follow well and none should be missed. This album stands on its own merit as a complete package. There is a real tone of soul music to most of the songs like Isley cover Who's That Lady, though soothing instrumentals like Full Moon and Goodness and Mercy lend the expected Santana spiritual side.

Peace on Earth/ Mother Earth are topped off with a burning version of Third Stone From The Sun featuring twin lead dueling between Vernon and Carlos. There are even some hip- hop elements at work with songs like Choose and the fantastic It's A Jungle Out There. The height of this record however may be the resuscitated retreatment of Jin-Go-Lo-Ba, a song that often closes Santana shows.

It could be said with some authority that Spirits Dancing In The Flesh was the last truly great album by Santana. Tah aside, it was certainly the last non-commercial one.