CD 1: Mandela, For Those Who Chant, Batuka/No One to Depend On, Taboo, Smooth Criminal, Black Magic Woman/Gypsy Queen, Oye Como Va, Se A Cabo, Incident at Neshabur

CD 2: Super Boogie/Hong Kong Blues, Savor, Once It’s Gotcha, Cavatina, Toussaint L’Overture, Soul Sacrifice

Recorded during tour rehearsals, this was Santana’s second reunion (the first in 1986) to include original members Gregg Rolie, Michael Shrieve, and Jose “Chepito” Areas. The rest of the band would be made up of current members Armando Pereza, who had been with Carlos since the early seventies, Chester Thompson, and Alphonzo Johnson. Running through most of what would be played during the tour, the band sound well rehearsed with only a few minor mistakes (of course, it is only rehearsals). Midnight Dreamer scored an excellent soundboard recording with a perfect balance between the instruments. Having two keyboard players really helps to fill the mix. Gregg Rolie sticks primarily to organ while Chester Thompson handles piano and a variety of other sounds. One nice part about Carlos’ bands is that the players always stand out and everyone gets highlighted throughout the performances.

They have really chosen a nice mix of Santana material for this tour, most going back to the first three albums and also some tracks from the more recent Freedom LP. The band even includes a jam based around Michael Jackson’s “Smooth Criminal”. The older material is given new life with this line up and “Incident at Neshabur” takes a different turn that includes a Chester Thompson solo piano spot. There is a slight drop out in “Oye Como Va” and a few of the songs fade at the starts and finishes but this is very minor when considering the flawless sound and quality performance. The band is heard joking a bit between “Toussaint L’Overture” and “Soul Sacrifice” but other than that it’s basically just the music.

This is another great Midnight Dreamer title and a must have for any Santana fan. With quality production and a great performance, you really can’t ask for much more.