Search - Santana, Alice Coltrane :: Illuminations

Cosmic Carlos Guitar Master

Enrique Torres | San Diegotitlan, Califas | 11/24/2008

(5 out of 5 stars)

"I love going back and listening to something I liked in a different time and place and that is exactly what this colloboration does, it takes you to another time and place. That place is where everything stands still and the music engulfs your soul. The beauty of the moment, the here and now come together as the lush sounds and contemplative vibe by Cosmic Carlos and Alice Coltrane send you on ride through the universe, floating on air created by their notes. This is a beautiful disc to good for words. This is Cosmic Carlos at his best, reaching to the furthers of time and space and laying down some fantastic guitar riffs. The eloquent guitar phrasing is passionate with out being dazzling; it is in word, sublime. Alice Coltrane contributes beautifully with her instrumentation, playing counter and in direct flow to Santanas lead. Listening to this timeless disc reminds me of all the beauty within and around us all everywhere. If you have never heard this disc, were not born yet or just missed this one because it wasn't in the rock or jazz rock vein than check it out; it is one of Santanas most progressive, challenging and engrossing works. In particular I like a few outstanding tunes that stand above the rest. The epic "Angel of Sunlight"(14:40)is a musical odyssey in one song, it covers the Santana sound in all of it's diversity, it is a tour de force,the surreal tones and beauty of "Angel of Water" is a blessed song that has nearly religious qualities, it is as though an angel were present guiding in the studio and the finale "Illuminations" is a fitting farewell bringing complete closure to this bit of cosmic revelry. Like exploding and expanding universes resulting in rebirth this music cleanses your soul and sets you free again. Great stuff and highlty recommended for those moments of solitude and meditative peace that we all need."