April 15th is the debut date of “Santana IV,” an album that features all the original players, together for the first time since 1971!
“Anywhere You Want To Go,” the first single release, was written by keyboard player and lead singer Gregg Rolie, who’s joined by former band-mates Neal Schon on guitar and vocals; drummer Michael Shrieve, who was still a teenager when he played with the group at Woodstock; and Michael Carabello on percussion.
BTW, Rolie is the voice on “Oye Como Va,” that massive hit from Santana’s early 70’s album “Abraxas,” and their new song magically revives that sound.
“Anywhere You Want To Go” is just as mesmerizing as “Oye Como Va”– polished, tropical, global—you’re aware that you are listening to a master at his craft, the kind of art and sophistication that takes years to perfect, yet still has the energy and passion of youth.
Even if you aren’t an ardent Santana fan, this is a song to listen to, not only because it’s so good, but also because a Santana reunion will have its “15 minutes of fame” via everything from E.T and the late night talk shows, to “People” magazine to an on-line presence, and when that happens, and you recognize the song, you’ll feel connected to the culture at large, and that’s a good feeling for a Boomer.