Supernatural

By CHRISTOPHER JOHN FARLEY

A favorite tactic among record companies is to pair classic rock legends with not-so-legendary contemporary acts that happen to be temporarily popular. The results can be horrifying, like mixing vintage port with New Coke. Surprisingly, though, on Carlos Santana's star-laden new album, this gambit pays off creatively. The CD features a parade of hot talent, including Dave Matthews and Lauryn Hill. Nearly every track bursts with fresh energy and Afro-Latin soul, the latter provided by Santana's mesmerizing guitar solos.

--C.J.F.