Record Reviews

VAN MORRISON ~ LATEST RECORD PROJECT VOLUME 1 EXILE 4050538667905 (Barcode: 4050538667905) ~ IRELAND ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 2020 Released: 2021 The COVID-19 pandemic paralyzed the music world almost completely for months on end, surely as far as live performances are concerned, but for many artists the period of seclusion and distancing was an opportunity for more intensive recording activity than ever before. Northern Irish iconic singer / songwriter Van MorrisonFind albums by this artist managed during the pandemic to record a whole 2CD album, his 42nd studio release, with no less than twenty-eight new songs, all written (two co-written and one traditional) by him, a truly remarkable achievement for a 75 years old veteran. Morrison is surrounded by a fabulous team of instrumentalists, which includes organist Richard DunnFind albums by this artist, pianist Stuart McIlroyFind albums by this artist, guitarist Dave KearyFind albums by this artist, bassist Pete HurleyFind albums by this artist, drummer Colin GriffinFind albums by this artist and a few other players and background vocalist. Guitarist Jim MullenFind albums by this artist guests on a couple of songs and vocalists Chris FarloweFind albums by this artist and P.J. ProbyFind albums by this artist guests on one song each. The music is kept in a retro atmosphere, emphasized by the organ centered instrumental arrangements, all kept in the vein of a classic early Morrison, combining Blues, Country, Soul and Rhythm And Blues, but always completely filled with Morrison’s idiosyncrasy. If it ain’t broke don’t fix it is the name of the game here, and Morrison was always a Master of the game. Since personally I could never get enough of Morrison’s brilliant songwriting and superb delivery, this album surely is not going to break the pattern. I had a blast listening to these songs, and although there were no surprises within, we all had enough surprises in our lives lately, so Van, please don’t you ever change! God bless for being out there and for keeping the music same!

Updated: 11/11/2023Posted: 02/06/2021

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