Shape Shifter (Starfaith Records, 2012)
Shape Shifter is a collection of instrumental pieces that legendary guitarist Carlos Santana saved for this all-instrumental project. Santana’s career spans decades and various musical genres. Shape Shifter showcases these various musical styles and influences.
Carlos Santana dedicates this album to the indigenous peoples of North America, the American Indians. The title track begins with native chants, acoustic guitars and rattles although Santana quickly shows his chops with one of his spectacular electric guitar solos.
In addition to ‘Shape Shifter’, album highlights include the reggae and world music-infused ‘Dom’ and ‘Nomad’, where Santana and keyboardist Chester Thompson carry out a sizzling duel.
Santana has always been a master craftsman of slow tempo instrumental pieces, with a romantic feel. He treats the listener to a few of these downtempo cuts, the best of which are ‘Angelica Faith’ and ‘Canela.’
Band members featured in the album are virtuoso players Chester Thompson on keyboards; Dennis Chambers on drums; Benny Rietveld on bass; Raul Rekow on congas; Karl Perazzo on percussion; Andy Vargas and Tony Lindsay on vocals; and special guest Salvador Santana (Carlos’ son) on keyboards.
Shape Shifter presents the eclectic instrumental side of influential guitarist Carlos Santana who showcases a scorching mix of fiery rock, Afro-Latin beats, global sounds and smooth jazz.