Two of the Best Percussionists Around!
Jeffrey G. Stevenson | F.W.B.,FL | 07/06/2006
(4 out of 5 stars)
"For anyone not familiar with Karl Perazzo and Raul Rekow, they are the super-hot, super-talented and super-natural percussionists currently working with Santana...and these guys really shine on this wonderful DVD. Although this cannot be considered a concert DVD(it was shot at a studio with no audience), it is equal parts of exciting ensemble music, burning solos and instructional material. The whole band plays with much inspiration and passion, but the real stars of this production are the guys "hitting" things. I had actually seen other footage of Karl and Raul, along with seeing them live with Santana, but I hadn't grasped how talented these men were! I literally sat through this DVD with a smile glued to my face---totally amazed with the facility of each player. It is quite apparent that Karl and Raul have spent a "lifetime" studying the 'Masters' and developing their own styles, while still remaining authentic to the roots and heritage associated with Latin music. And the drummer...WOW! Horacio 'El Negro' Hernandez is "other-worldly" with some of the amazing techniques seen here---he is also credited within the drumming community as being THE drummer who introduced the left-foot Clave pattern to the States. I can't think of a better drummer they could have gotten to accompany their 'Vision' for this production. Besides all the percussionists taking extended "mind-blowing" solos throughout, they briefly explain and breakdown exactly what(and why) each played during certain passages/solos. Lastly, although this DVD will certainly Thrill percussionists and drummers alike...you certainly don't have to be one to thoroughly enjoy this(just an appreciation for Good music executed by Great players). On the back of the DVD case, these guys explain how they are perpetual "students" of the art...well this release proves they are well on their way to 'Master' status! Strongly recommended along with Santana's 'Sacred Fire' DVD to see these explosive players in action."
Very good DVD, totally worth it!
Juancao | San Antonio, Texas | 09/25/2006
(5 out of 5 stars)
"Wow! What a great DVD! Some great percussion performances from three great players. A nice bonus section where they break down what they are playing. The best part is watching great musicians play some really cool music that you don't get to hear very often. I am still not sure what all the various rhythms were that they were playing but it was sure fun to watch and listen."