Santana cooks as Carlos brings supernatural sounds to the Joint

Leila Navidi

Carlos Santana performs live during the first night of new show “Supernatural Santana: A Trip Through the Hits” at The Joint inside the Hard Rock Hotel Wednesday, May 27, 2009.

By Mark Whittington (contact)

Friday, May 29, 2009 | 7:25 a.m.

Supernatural Santana

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First impressions as Carlos Santana and his band settle into their residency at the Joint at the Hard Rock.

Carlos and company delivered on the promise of the title – “Supernatural Santana: A Trip through the Hits.” They played the favorites – from “Jingo” to “Into the Night” -- for almost two hours on Thursday night.

But this Vegas show seemed anything but formulaic. The band was cooking – particularly his industrial strength rhythm section – and Carlos was loose.

At first blush, it made me think this residency thing really could work. I’m going to ponder it and come back with a full review. But for now, I’m smiling.

Santana - photos, stories, blogs and bio

Discussion: 2 comments so far…

By PatriciaLV

5/29/09 at 9:20 a.m.

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I saw them back in 1979 in Madison Square Garden. While it was a "different" band, I can't describe how good they were. We had decent seats but all you needed to do was listen and you were mesmerized.

I'd love to see the current show at the Hard Rock. Hope I get the chance. Waiting for your "full review" ..... :)
By fusheeny

5/29/09 at 10:09 a.m.

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What is their to review??..his music speaks for itself...Positively brilliant!!..One of the greatest guitar players bar none..Perhaps these shows are designed to be commercial success??..Hopefully he will sneak in some tunes that are not as well known to the average listener..