Amigos

"Amigos," released on March 26, 1976, is a pivotal album in Santana's discography, marking a significant shift in their musical direction. This seventh studio album finds the band delving deeper into jazz fusion, incorporating synthesizers and a blend of rock, funk, soul, and Latin influences. The result is a diverse and complex sound that sets it apart from their earlier works.

The album features a mix of energetic and introspective tracks, with standout songs like "Dance Sister Dance (Baila Mi Hermana)" and "Europa (Earth's Cry Heaven's Smile)" showcasing Santana's signature guitar work and the band's experimental spirit. "Europa" became a top ten hit in several European countries, highlighting the album's international appeal. In the U.S., "Let It Shine" emerged as a minor hit, contributing to "Amigos" becoming Santana's first album to reach the top ten on the Billboard charts since "Caravanserai" in 1972.

Produced by David Rubinson and co-produced by band members including Carlos Santana, Tom Coster, and Ndugu Leon Chancler, "Amigos" was recorded at Wally Heider Recording Studios in San Francisco. The album's backing vocals feature contributions from Armando Peraza, Julia Tillman Waters, and Maxine Willard Waters, among others, adding depth and richness to the overall sound.

"Amigos" is a testament to Santana's versatility and willingness to explore new musical territories. It's an album that captures the band's evolution and their ability to blend various genres into a cohesive and engaging listening experience. The album's reissue by Mobile Fidelity on an 180g 33RPM LP presents the original recordings with audiophile sound quality, offering both new and longtime fans an opportunity to appreciate the album in a fresh light.