New Van Morrison

[Wild Frank]

Its interesting with both Bob Dylan and Neil Young gaining a lot of press with new releases that there seems much less fuss over the new Van Morrison album. It would be interesting to hear peoples thoughts on where Van the man stands in terms of legendary status. For me he is an equal of the other two. Astral Weeks, Veedon Fleece, Into The Music are albums as good as anyone has made over the past fifty or so years.

 

With Vans recent output is seems more middle of the road than Bob or Neil. The later two seem to attract extremes whereas Vans recent albums are neither 'a return to form' or horrendous but just Van.

 

Well I love Van. Any thoughts?

[ponch1028]

Van has always had a secure place in my top 5 of all-time. His 5 album streak starting with Astral Weeks to St. Dominic's Preview is one of the finest periods of music. Throw in Veedon Fleece, Into the Music, his Them output, and the Philosopher Stone compilation, and his best ranks up there with the best of Dylan, Young, and Paul Simon (my Mt. Rushmore of "Rock" musicians).

 

Having said that, when I listen to his 80's -- up to the present output, it's hit-or-miss. Even the good material only makes me want to revisit his old material, rarely does it make me want to listen to his newer stuff again. Dylan and Simon to me have separated themselves from the other two with regards to high quality output in each of the last 5 decades. I cannot say that for Van, and Neil's output has not impressed me since Silver and Gold.

[LouieB]

The reason Van doesn't get the press is that most of his recent output isn't that interesting. (I guess there is an echo in here.) Unlike Dylan, who releases an album rarely anymore, Van keeps pumping them out.

 

Incidently the article in the NY Times magazine last week may be the most boring article about Neil Young ever published.

 

LouieB

[parisisstale]

Week late but Happy 70th to the man.