Overview: On July 1st, 2011, Montreux hosted the reunion of two master guitarists, Carlos Santana and John McLaughlin, with their Invitation To Illumination concert. Both musicians have been regulars at Montreux across the years but this was the first time they headlined their own concert together.

Blu ray Verdict: Finally, this historic performance is available via the great Live At Montreux series. Whenever these two guitar maestros and searching souls meet a special kind of magic ensures.

And here they are supported by a stellar cast mainly from Santana's regular band although McLaughlin bassist Etienne M'Bappe definitely plays a prominent role. On drums Cindy Blackman Santana and Dennis Chambers drives things forward with power and finesse together with conga legend Raul Rekow. And new Santana keyboard player David Matthews really impresses with both versatility and inventiveness.

Even though the repertoire comprises 4 tracks from the classic Love, Devotion, Surrender album the atmosphere is far from their short legendary tour of 1973. Less fiery guitar-battles and more subdued, but sublime interplay. Among the highlights in this very diverse set is 2 tracks from Lifetime propelled by Cindy (as in her excellent tribute band Spectrum Road) and a rare chance to hear McLaughlin visiting his avantgardish (acidy) past. And some sublime acoustic guitar duets.

As must be the case with a "rehearsed jam session" like this there are some miscues and warts but that only add to the charm of this highly recommendable concert that really lives up to it's name, inviting us to spiritual and musical illumination.