Record Reviews

VAN MORRISON ~ HIS BAND AND THE STREET CHOIR (EXPANDED EDITION) WARNER BROS. 081227952303 (Barcode: 081227952303) ~ IRELAND ~ Classic Rock Recorded: 1970 Released: 2015 This is the remastered and expanded reissue of the third album by the celebrated Northern Irish singer / songwriter Van MorrisonFind albums by this artist. Following his iconic debut "Astral WeeksFind albums with this title" and its follow up "MoondanceFind albums with this title" Morrison recorded this album in a much more relaxed atmosphere, keeping the mood and instrumentation of "Moondance" intact, but easing up on the intensity. The album collects a few older songs Morrison wrote earlier on and others, which were newer but were not included on the first two albums. The Jazzy arrangements utilizing brass and a Funky rhythm section are already his trademarks, which will continue for decades. Morrison´s vocal performances are, as usual, completely unique and incomparable to any other vocalist active at the time or since. Of course it’s the strengths of the material that makes every album by Morrison, this one included, an instant classic. His somewhat throaty delivery and his modulations create a one of its kind sonic experience, which is absolutely mesmerizing and his melodies and lyrics are all a class of their own. In retrospect this album is somewhat forgotten and neglected in the overall sizeable and incredibly rich Morrison´s legacy, which is a pity, as it is a charming gem of an album with so much great music within it. Hopefully this new edition will remedy the neglect and return it to its proper and well earned status. The remastered sound and the bonus tracks are a very good reason to make this album a part of everybody´s music collection, as usual better late than never. Do not hesitate!

Updated: 11/01/2016Posted: 11/01/2016

CD 1 Mini-Sleeve Remastered Bonus Tracks Recommend To A Friend