Back in the 1970s, Carlos wasn’t the only Santana brother that was getting airplay. Brother Jorge lead a band with Arcelio Garcia/voc, Abel Zarate/g-voc, Pablo Tellez/b, Richard Spremiochj/dr, Roichard Kermode/key, Luis Gasca/tp and Roy Murray/hrn to form the vastly popular Latin band Malo. They had a number of big hits such as “Suavecito” melding together percolating percussion, rich vocal harmonies and strong yet lyrical guitar work. This collection of their singles while on the Warner Bros. label will make you wish for a reunion tour, if that is possible.
If you only know them from that sole tune, you are in for a treat. The combination of frantic percussion grooves, maniacal horns and searing guitar make for an E ticket ride on pieces such as the celebrative “”Oye Mama” and “Latin Bugaloo” while Santana’s own guitar work will blow you out of the water on the fbye” and rocking “Peace.” Some salsa sizzles with trumpet on “Pana” and the brass is bold during the chiming “Café’.” These guys were bold, bright and boogalooing! Why didn’t I see this band back then?!?