Robert Jasinski

I was 15 when the album was released and knew this Santana studio effort would be significantly different. I had read that Carlos and his new lineup were moving in a more jazz/fusion/spiritual direction. Although I was an ardent fan of the band's first three albums -- straight ahead kick ass Latin rock, blues, and funk -- I stayed open minded. At first listen, it was somewhat difficult to understand the new ethereal direction, but after many, many listens via my primitive headphones, I began to grasp the intent and focus of the music. No Top Ten hits here, but that was fine. I especially enjoyed Song of the Wind, Stoneflower, Just In Time to See the Sun, and the Spanish essence of All the Love of the Universe. I had recently spent two months living in Spain and enjoyed the vitality and soulfulness of Spanish music. Listening to this album took me back to Spain and elsewhere, bringing this listener the joy of more sophisticated world music. Still enjoy listening to it on a regular basis. It certainly is one of Carlos' most ambitious and transcendent albums. And also one of his most unforgettable.