SANTANA — Marathon (review)

SANTANA — Marathon album cover Album · 1979 · Latin Rock/Soul Buy this album from MMA partners
2/5 ·
Sean Trane
This album is a turning point in Santana’s discography: while it was recorded in 79, it is much more representative of the group’s 80’s output. Due in no small part to singer Alex Litgerwood’s arrival (the man had been part of the later 70’s Brian Auger’s Oblivion Express), the group will change subreptitiously towards the then-very strong AOR sound of the era (semi-west coast laced in with Journey). Graced with an elegant sleeve depicting ancient greek athletes, the album is a fairly deceiving one.

It all started rather well with the short instrumental intro title track and the excellent Aqua Marine (the longuest track at 5:35), but unfortunately separated by a typical 80’s Lightning In The Sky, which does pale in comparison to the tracks sandwiching it. Unfortunately after a strong start, the album does run out of steam (which is a bit of a shame with such an enduring title) and the better tracks might be All i ever Wanted, the other short instrumental Rinnin. The rest is rather uninteresting and there are two stinkers as well: You Know That I Love You (waddya expect with such a stupid title) and Stand Up.

Not really essential, this album is the first one chronologically I wouldn’t recommend unless an unconditional Santana fan. In the 70’s, they had put out two or three albums which weren’t as strong (Festival for example), but this album is weak. I believe that carlos was probably saving his best tracks for his two solo albums sandwiching this album; the divine Oneness and the brilliant Swing Of Delight. Look elsewhere ;-)
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