I like this album even more than "Abraxas", always referred to it as "Evil Ways" which for me is their signature song. Anyway the mix is fantastic as are most Santana quad albums it gets a ten from me. Can't wait for the SACD!
I really like this Q8. Good frequency response across the board and no obvious indication of cart flutter. My only complaint is that Evil Ways is too bass-heavy, but that is adjustable with tone controls or in Audacity.
I'll give this a 9 for now. That rating is a high bar to justify the cost of the new MC SACD... But many times when I think a ceiling is set high, it gets shattered by a new release. We shall see!
Well, I finally got a copy and it is like new. We all know the "shortcomings" of SQ but I have to say the soundfield is terrific and the mix/mastering has somewhat better body than Abraxas. The bass is preserved.
"Oye Como Va" is my all-time favorite Santana number but "Soul Sacrifice" is close behind. When they get going, it's kind of an all-encompassing thing.