July 19, 2024 – PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ
Review by Chris Yates // Photography by Estelle Massry
The PNC Bank Arts Center crackled with an electric energy as The Counting Crows and Santana took the stage for an unforgettable night of music that spanned genres and generations. As usual at the PNC Arts Center, the summer evening was perfect for an outdoor concert, and the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
The Counting Crows kicked off the evening with their signature blend of introspective lyrics and alternative rock melodies. Adam Duritz’s distinctive voice filled the amphitheater, captivating the audience from the first notes of “Round Here.” The band’s setlist was a journey through their career, mixing hits like “Mr. Jones” and “A Long December” with deeper cuts that delighted long-time fans. Their performance was tight and emotionally resonant, with Duritz’s raw, emotive delivery making each song feel personal and poignant.
As the sun set, the stage transformed for Santana’s set, and the legendary guitarist wasted no time in mesmerizing the crowd with his virtuosity. From the moment Carlos Santana launched into the iconic riff of “Black Magic Woman,” it was clear that the audience was in for a transcendent experience. Santana’s guitar solos were nothing short of breathtaking, weaving together Latin rhythms, bluesy licks, and soulful melodies that seemed to defy the limits of time and space.
Joined by his band (and his wife the famed drum virtuoso, Cindy Blackman), Santana’s performance was a masterclass in musical fusion, seamlessly blending rock, jazz, and Latin influences into a tapestry of sound that washed over the audience. Classics like “Oye Como Va” and “Smooth” had everyone on their feet, dancing and swaying to the infectious rhythms. Santana’s passion for his craft was palpable, and his joy in sharing the stage with his bandmates and the audience was evident throughout the night.
The lighting for Santana was nothing short of mesmerizing. From the moment the first note rang out, the stage came alive with a symphony of colors and patterns that danced across the backdrop and engulfed the audience in a sensory feast. During the soulful guitar solos, the lighting intensified, bathing the stage in hues that matched the mood of each song perfectly – from deep blues and purples during melancholic melodies to fiery reds and oranges during high-energy jams. The dynamic lighting sequences not only complemented Santana’s legendary guitar prowess but also elevated the entire concert experience, adding an extra layer of emotion and spectacle to each performance.
The synergy between The Counting Crows and Santana was unexpected yet magical, showcasing the diversity of their musical styles while highlighting their shared love for storytelling through song. It was a celebration of music’s power to unite and inspire, leaving the audience with a sense of awe and gratitude for witnessing two legendary acts at the height of their powers.
