Carlos Santana and Son Salvador Rock Calgary
The Santana Band Bring Their Creative Latin Sound to the Saddledome
Sep 13, 2008
The Calgary music scene was muy picante last night as Carlos Santana and his band had the audience at the Saddledome dancing in the aisles. Santana and his extremely talented entourage entertained a crowd of around 9000. The band was made up of: 3 drummers; a keyboardist; two singers with maracas, tambourines and so on; a bass player; a trombonist; a trumpet player; a second guitar player and of course Santana himself.
The Salvador Santana Band: A Legacy
Following in his father’s footsteps, Carlos’ son Salvador opened the show with his group the Salvador Santana Band. With an urban mix of Latin, funk and R&B the music was original and creative. The energetic set began early warming up fans for what would be a long night of soulful music.
Moved by the Musical Energy of the Santana Band
Performing a set that lasted over two and a half hours Santana and his band kept up an exhaustingly high energy level. The group of musicians, each truly talented, put an incredible amount of passion and soul into every song. The audience full of revelers certainly was moved by the heartfelt performance as many abandoned their chairs to dance, clap and sing along.
The show, more than seeming rehearsed, had an impromptu jam session feeling. The venerable artist gave new depth to his music while performing on stage. Though some of Carlos Santana’s popular radio hits like “Maria Maria”, “Black Magic Woman” and “Oye Como Va” were performed, even they had a new flavour in the live set.
The performance was an exhibition of the musical genius of the artists and the way the instruments and voices blended together to create the sound that has won Santana multiple Grammys and many other awards. Throughout the show the band mates spotlighted their individual talents with solos and the fans got to witness the phenomenal guitar playing that Carlos is world renowned for.
Carlos Santana
Carlos Santana has been making music for over 40 years. Born in Mexico to a musical family, Carlos was destined to be a legend. After moving to the USA in the 1960s he began experimenting with creative sounds and by 1969 when Santana played Woodstock he had developed a unique style. With that explosive show he shot to international fame and has been serenading the world since.
Reaching Out: the Milagro Foundation
The humble Santana spoke of his faith and his belief that there should be more love in the world during his concert. This incredibly famous star has used his place in the public eye to start the Milagro Foundation, which helps support underprivileged children and youths with education, health and the arts. For more information please visit the website.
Finale
More than a concert, Carlos Santana and his band put on a musical experience for enthusiasts at the Saddledome. The endlessly creative and always energetic musician brought the house to their feet for a memorable and remarkable show. For one long and thrilling night Calgary overflowed with Latin flavour.
