Shaman

The long-awaited follow-up to Supernatural, which was released in June 1999, Shaman is similar in form in that it also has an impressive and diverse list of contributing artists, including Seal, Macy Gray, Citizen Cope and Ozomatli. This array of talented collaborators from different musical influences gives the album universal appeal.

The first track, “Adouma,” has a traditional Latin up-beat sound that is warmly complemented by the smooth tones of Santana’s guitar in the background. “The Game of Love,” featuring Michele Branch, is currently popular on the Top 40 circuit (I have to admit it really does have a catchy stick-with-you chorus that I find myself singing often). “You are my kind,” featuring Seal, was written by Rob Thomas and is interesting to listen to because it beautifully meshes the unique, soulful vocals of Seal with the classic warm guitar tone of Santana. The song “Foo Foo” is a fun change of pace; it has a little bit of everything: salsa rhythm, crazy Latin chants, mariachi horns and, of course, jamming Santana guitar solos.

But my favorite track is "Sideways" because it’s just a good bluesy tune. Santana’s clean blues complement the simple lyrics, as if the two were destined to meet and marry. It is this very talent that proves Santana so dynamic, the fact that he can lend his guitar to almost any musical style and create something memorable.