ONE of the hardest working bands in the UK comes to Blackburn on May 11 recreating the infectious rhythms of Santana.

"I really don't like the description tribute band," said Marcos Rodriguez, lead singer and guitarist of VivaSantana, "but that's the accepted term, I suppose.

"I see it much more as a celebration of the music of Carlos Santana."

The six-piece outfit, including three percussionists, perform songs that span the 40-year career of the Latin guitar virtuoso.

"There are certain songs you just have to play," said Marcos. "If you didn't do Black Magic Woman, for instance, an audience would never forgive you. Putting the set list together can be both a nightmare and a delight. You could play a five hour show and still only scratch the surface."

It was almost inevitable that Marcos should make his living, performing the songs of his hero.

"Santana was the reason I picked up the guitar," he said. "I learned to play using his records and through watching him. As a result, when I play I do stand the same way and hold the guitar the same way. This is not an act, it's just the way I play naturally."

Because all six members of the band are huge fans they try to be as authentic as possible in everything they do.

"If you don't get the sound and the feel right then it is never going to work," said Marcos. "We use the same instruments and amps, we have the classic line-up with percussion and Hammond organ."

So authentic is the sound that the band have been recognised by Santana's record company and used in promotional concerts.

"Let's be honest, Santana are never likely to play venues like Blackburn," said Marcos. "It is rare that they tour at all and when they do it is the major venues which are sell-outs.

"Although the fanbase in the UK may be smaller than in the rest of Europe, those fans are very loyal and very knowledgeable. It is also a varied fanbase in terms of age and we get everyone from teenagers through to the fans who have been with the band from the start coming to see us.

VivaSantana travel all over Europe putting on shows and this summer they will be playing a number of festival dates.

"If anyone had told me that I would be standing on stage playing in front of thousands of people I would never have believed it," said Marcos. "It is an unbelievable feeling, particularly because I am a genuine fan of the music.

"We always try to put on a great show with lots of fire, passion and great tunes that gets an audience out of their seats."

VivaSantana, King George's Hall, Blackburn, Friday, May 11. Details from the box office on 01254 582582.