Back catalogue: All genres

Review: Released in 1974, Santana's Lotus stands as a defining live album that brilliantly showcases the band's unique blend of rock, jazz and Latin influences. Recorded during their Japan tour, the album features standout performances recorded over two nights in Osaka, featuring Carlos Santana's exceptional guitar work and the band's vibrant improvisations. Highlights include iconic tracks like 'Black Magic Woman', 'Oye Como Va' and the extended jam 'Toussaint L'Overture', which illustrate the band's remarkable ability to create a cohesive and powerful sound. Originally intended as a Japan-only release, Lotus gained international acclaim as an import, displaying Santana at a pivotal moment in their evolution, with a mix of original and new members. The album's elaborate packaging enhances its appeal, rivaling the artwork of other notable triple live albums. Musically, Lotus focuses on instrumental jazz-rock, with minimal vocal tracks, yet it captures the sheer joy and energy of the band's live performances. While some may find the lengthy drum solo a weak point, the musicianship throughout the album is outstanding, making it an essential listen for fans of the genre. Overall, Lotus remains a testament to Santana's innovative spirit and live prowess, celebrated for its high sound quality and dynamic artistry.

Review: Australian rockers Silverchair made their mark with their third album 'Neon Ballroom' in 1999, which heard the band move away from their grunge roots and into more atmospheric territory. The album was produced by Nick Launay, who has also worked with the likes of Nick Cave and Arcade Fire. But this reissue more than proves Silverchair had a sound of their own, with rapturous openers like 'Emotion Sickness' and acoustic ballads like 'Ana's Song' showcasing not only the band's growth and experimentation, but their ability to oscillate between screamo and emo while indulging their most experimental impulses.