SANTANA - ABRAXAS 12" Vinyl LP Album

- Original USA Release in Gatefold Cover, incl Large Poster

Album cover of Santana’s Abraxas featuring Mati Klarwein’s surreal artwork Annunciation. The image depicts a red angelic figure with blue wings on the left, a reclining Black woman with a white dove on her hip in the center, and a vibrant, psychedelic background filled with colorful patterns, fruit, and landscapes. The band name Santana and album title Abraxas are written in ornate red lettering in the upper-right corner.

Abraxas is the second studio album by the Latin influenced rock band Santana. Consolidating their highly acclaimed live performance at the Woodstock Festival in August of 1969, and the interest generated by their first album, Santana (released in May 1969), the band took some time to issue a follow-up. Released in September, 1970, the album's mix of rock, blues, jazz, salsa and other influences made it a classic that defined Santana's early sound, and showed a musical maturation from their first album. This web-page has hi-res photos of the album covers, record label and a detailed description.

"Abraxas" Album Description:

In the vibrant tapestry of the early 1970s music scene, one album emerged as a masterpiece that transcended musical boundaries and etched its mark on the sands of time. Santana's "Abraxas," released in the USA in 1970, stands as a testament to the fusion of Latin rhythms, psychedelic rock, and masterful instrumentation, encapsulating the spirit of its era.

Produced by the dynamic duo of Fred Catero and the iconic Carlos Santana himself, "Abraxas" was more than just a collection of songs; it was a sonic journey that pushed the boundaries of conventional musical genres. Recorded at the Wally Heider Recording Studio in San Francisco from April 17 to May 2, 1970, the album captures the raw energy and improvisational spirit that defined the music of that time.

The sound engineering prowess behind the album was helmed by Dave Brown and John Fiore, ensuring that each note resonated with clarity and precision. The result was an auditory experience that not only pleased the ears but also ignited the soul.

The visual allure of "Abraxas" is equally captivating, thanks to the artistic vision of Bob Venosa, the mind behind the album cover design. The cover, presented in a gatefold format, draws the listener into a world of mystical symbolism and intricate details. The inclusion of a large poster further adds to the album's collectible charm.

Photography played a crucial role in capturing the essence of the musicians and their art. Marian Schmidt and Joan Chase, through their lens, provided a visual narrative that complemented the music within. The album cover photography is a visual feast, echoing the cultural and artistic vibes of the era.

Released in the tumultuous yet culturally rich year of 1970, "Abraxas" made an indelible impact on the music landscape. It served as a bridge between the free-spirited 1960s and the evolving sounds of the new decade. The tracks, including iconic pieces like "Black Magic Woman" and "Oye Como Va," showcased Santana's ability to weave Latin influences seamlessly into the fabric of rock and blues.

As the world grappled with social and political changes, "Abraxas" became a soundtrack for those seeking solace and inspiration. The album's success was not only measured by its chart performance but also by its enduring influence on subsequent generations of musicians.

Music Genre:

Latin Rock Fusion 

Album Production Information:

The album: "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA" was produced by: Fred Catero, Carlos Santana

Sound/Recording Engineer(s): Dave Brown, John Fiore

This album was recorded at: 17 April – 2 May 1970 at Wally Heider Recording Studio, San Francisco

Album cover design: Bob Venosa

Illustrations - Mati Klarwein

Album cover photography: Marian Schmidt , Joan Chase

Record Label & Catalognr:

Columbia KC 30130

Album Packaging:

Gatefold/FOC (Fold Open Cover) Album Cover Design with artwork / photos on the inside cover pages

Media Format:

12" LP Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record

Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 320 gram

Year & Country:

1970 Made in USA
Personnel/Band Members and Musicians on: SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA
    Band-members, Musicians and Performers
  • Michael Shrieve Drums
  • José Chepitó Areas Percussion, Conga, Timbales
  • Gregg Rolie Keyboards, Vocals
  • David Brown Bass, Guitar (Bass), Engineer
  • Mike Carabello Percussion, Conga
  • Alberto Gianquinto Piano
  • Mati Klarwein Illustrations
  • Rico Reyes Percussion
  • Carlos Santana Guitar, Vocals, Producer
Complete Track-listing of the album "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA"

The detailed tracklist of this record "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA" is:

    Side One:
  1. Singing Winds, Crying Beasts
  2. Black Magic Wonab / Gypsy Queen
  3. Oye Como Va
  4. Incident at Neshabur
    Side Two:
  1. Se a Cabo
  2. Mother's Daughter
  3. Samba Pa Ti
  4. Hope You're Feeling Better
  5. El Nicoya
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa

This is the front cover of Santana’s iconic album Abraxas, released in 1970. The artwork, titled “Annunciation”, was created by German artist Mati Klarwein. It’s a vivid, surreal collage rich in symbolism, blending religious, mythological, and sensual imagery.

The composition features:

• A vibrant red angel-like figure on the left, with outstretched arms and blue wings, symbolizing a mix of spirituality and earthly vitality.

• A reclining Black woman in the center, partially draped with a pink fabric, embodying themes of nature, sensuality, and serenity. A white dove rests on her hip, a possible nod to peace or purity.

• A textured, colorful backdrop incorporating landscapes, abstract patterns, and fruit, creating a dreamlike and psychedelic atmosphere.

• The band’s name and album title, Santana Abraxas, are written in elaborate, swirling red letters in the upper-right quadrant.

This cover perfectly complements the album’s fusion of Latin rock, jazz, and blues, capturing its spiritual and experimental essence.

Large poster included with this album
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa  
Album Back Cover  Photo of "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA"
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa  
Inner Sleeve   of "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA" Album
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa  
Photo of "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA" Album's Inner Sleeve  
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa  
Close-up Photo of "SANTANA - Abraxas + large poster original USA" Record Label 
High Resolution Photos of santana abraxas usa  

 Note: The photos on this page are of the actual album. Slight differences in color may exist due to the use of the camera's flash. Images can be zoomed in/out ( eg pinch with your fingers on a tablet or smartphone ).

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