Van Morrison - Born To Sing No Plan B

[Ed S]

Anyone pick this up yet? I've been listening to it the past few days and am really enjoying it. Over the past 3-5 years, I've really become a fan of Van's. I must have about 10 discs by him at this point and this one hold up against any of them. Not saying it's a classic, but I think it classic Van Morrison - if you know what I mean. There's the typical blue eyed soul, blue, R&B influenced stuff with a jazzier orientation. I find it very refreshing that a guy who's pushing 70 (I think) is still out there doing new albums with all of his own material.

There's a nice video of a live performance of "Open The Doors To Your Heart" from the new album on his website - http://www.vanmorrison.com/index.html

I've never seen him live and hope he decides to tour the US at some point.

On a side note - I'll never forget my first night in Ireland a couple of years ago. My wife and I were in a small pub near St Stephen's Green with live music. I could reach out and touch the guy who was playing guitar (solo). I went to the bar and ordered something on tap called Bulmers. I thought it would be a beer, but it turned out to be a cider. I loved it - and, thanks to a board member who educated me - now drink it as Magner's in the US. At any rate - during a break, I requested a Van Morrison tune - anything but "Brown Eyed Girl" as I put it. He obliged and sang the best version of "Crazy Love" I've ever heard. Very special night

[GA Russell]

Ed, I heard Brown Eyed Girl emanating from a bar near my home Saturday night, and it occurred to me then that it might be the most played song on 60s oldies stations. It was a hit when I was in high school, but nothing like what a youngster today would think.

[John L]

Van is someone who has grown on me over the years as well. Thanks for the top on the new album. I will check it out as well.