"Abraxas" isn't just a great Santana album, it's Shanir Ezra Blumenkranz's Book of Angels release. It is a concussive exploration of Middle Eastern infused hard rock. 'Domos' and 'Tse'an' introduce the album's sonic theme by playing Middle Eastern punk. Therefore it is a change in musical direction when compared to Blumenkranz's work on the world music inspired "Caym," Volume 17 in the Book of Angels. Despite being an aggressive, distortion fueled adventure, Shanir Ezra Blumenkranz plays the gimbri or sinter on every track. For the unacquainted, it is a three stringed bass associated with the Gnawa people of Morocco. This gives the album an unusual and original sound. 'Nachmiel' is straight ahead rock and deliciously listenable. Aram Bajakian's fantastic guitar work brings to mind Charlie Hunter. For 'Yaasriel,' the thrash is turned off as the piece expresses a tender sensibility. With a doumbek keeping the beat, Eyal Maoz's gorgeous guitar work reminds us of his fantastic "Edom" album. 'Muriel,' 'Maspiel,' 'Aupiel,' and 'Nahuriel' return to the smack down. Along the lines of Metallica's 'Orion,' 'Biztha' is progressive metal with an arrangement that includes gentler interludes. As if it came off "Ipos," the album closes with the stunning 'Zaphiel.' "Abraxas" isn't for the faint of heart, but it's good for what it is. It is unlikely to resonate with those who appreciate the more melodic side of John Zorn's work like "Lucifer" and "the Dreamers." On the other hand, those who like to rock out will revel in the energy of "Abraxas."