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Van the Man

Writer's picture: Curious FanCurious Fan


Currently situated at #22 on Rolling Stone's list of the 100 Greatest Songwriters, Van Morrison is somehow underrated. This playlist offers a look past the greatest hits to explore the deeper album cuts, studio rarities, and live songs - all from various stages of his career.


Van's magic is his ability to blend soul, blues, folk, and jazz into a unique blend. Many of his best songs evoke a mystical word of enlightenment with vivid descriptions of nature - fields wet with rain, the country in the summertime, towns called Paradise, and Philosopher's Stones. Growing up in Northern Ireland, his catalog is influenced by his musical idols - Muddy Waters, Lead Belly, Sam Cooke, and Muddy Waters just as much as his literary ones - TS Elliot, W.B. Yeats, James Joyce, and William Blake.


Becoming a fan Van Morrison listener is a bit of a spiritual adventure and pairs well with introspection - so many of his songs have an ethereal feel. But don't underestimate his ability to throw down some rock and roll - like a live "Caravan". Van's an underrated performer as well. He has a way of taking a word or phrase and repeating it fascinatingly, often in call and response with another vocalist, an instrument, or himself.


Note: Van Morrison sounds especially good on rainy Sunday mornings.


Other Suggested Listening

  • The rocking double live album 'It's Too Late To Stop Now' with the magnificent Caledonia Soul Orchestra featuring a string section that intensifies Van's legendary live performances of that period, to maximum effect.


  • I fell for Van after owning a bootleg from Montreaux Jazz Festival - 7/5/90. For me, it's a top 10 desert island bootleg. It features a fantastic setlist that builds as the show goes on, incredible sound quality, and a 75-minute journey worth taking. If you are interested, it's on YouTube here.




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The Curious Fan is your source for all things music and related in the New England area. We strive to bring music fans the latest in new releases, concert news, artist suggestions and more. Whether you're a fan of rock, folk, alternative, or anything in between, our mission is to keep you informed on all the happenings in the New England live music scene. 

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