Music review: Van Morrison – ‘Duets: Re-Working the Catalogue’
My first exposure to the genius of Van Morrison came after hearing the opening track to “Moondance.”
The singer’s third album would quickly become a favorite, containing classic tracks like “Into the Mystic,” “And It Stoned Me” and “Glad Tidings.”
For his latest offering, the Belfast native invites some very special friends to help him revisit some hidden gems from the 69-year-old singer’s catalogue of 360 original songs.
For the collection, Morrison purposely stayed away from covering well-known favorites like “Brown Eyed Girl,” “Domino,” “Wild Night,” “Crazy Love” and “Caravan” for the opportunity to rework some deeper cuts.
Artists lending a spirited voice to the engaging arrangements include Mavis Staples, Taj Mahal, Steve Winwood, Natalie Cole and George Benson.
Album highlights include “Some Peace of Mind” with Bobby Womack, “Irish Heartbeat” with Mark Knopfler and “Real Real Gone” featuring Michael Bubl茅.
My favorite performance comes with Joss Stone joining the British soul man on a delightful version of “Wild Honey” from 1980’s “Common One.”
The youthfulness of Stone’s soulful voice is a beautiful contrast to Morrison’s seasoned blues and R&B delivery.
The lush reworkings that date back as far as 1970 feature a transcendental aura that demonstrates why Morrison is recognized as one of the most prolific recording artists of his era.
Produced by Morrison, Don Was and Bob Rock, the veteran singer-songwriter’s 35th studio album is yet another stellar journey into the marvelous world orchestrated by Morrison over that last 48 years.