Casino Connection Nevada

Rhythm & Blues

by Caitlin McGarry

Very few bands peak twice in their careers, but Santana has always been notorious for going against the grain.

Driven by guitarist and namesake Carlos Santana, the band emerged from San Francisco at the end of the 1960s with a sound all their own. Santana’s mix of Latin grooves and rock ‘n’ roll proved to be a magic formula, as evidenced by the stratospheric success of 1970’s Abraxas.

The group’s second album, Abraxas spawned two singles that still garner radio play and land on movie soundtracks: “Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen” and “Oye Como Va.” After the success of the early years, Santana’s line-up began to change, with revolving musicians joining Carlos Santana to release album after album to moderate success.

It wasn’t until 1999 that Santana reclaimed their throne with Supernatural, an album driven by collaborations with high-profile stars like Rob Thomas and Lauryn Hill. The band has continued this trend in subsequent releases, using Carlos Santana’s brilliant guitar playing to support performances by big names.

Though the band hasn’t recorded any new material since 2005, their tours remain a consistent force of nature, with Carlos Santana’s signature skills driving each performance.

Santana performs at MGM Grand Garden Arena October 4 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $47.25, $78.75 and $105.