• Home
• Music
• Entertainment
• Design
• Books
• Technology
• Help/Environment
• Wellness
• Life Banter

Be still my beating heart. Blessed by something and sprinkled with luck I have found myself with the opportunity of reviewing Van Morrison's new album.

I received the album a few days ago, but wanted to really let it sink in before doing an official write up. Before I even get into it I want you to know it's not quite 5 star material, but it's damn near close.

The mere fact that Keep It Simple is in my possession makes me giddy. Though while listening I found even with my deep appreciation for his music I had hyped it up to be more than what I received. This is probably my fault. I should have gone into this review with a clear mind. I should have "kept it simple" because that is exactly what Morrison wanted from this album. And simple is what you get. There is nothing faulty happening here, it is good, simple, old school music and I'm enjoying it.

This is Morrison's first release in three years and it is vocally very strong for being his 35th album. It seems he was channeling his father's tastes and loves of jazz while putting this album together. The entire album is low key and laid back. The musical arrangements are extremely subtle, they are not the focus at all. It's his voice, it's the lyrics and the expression. Furthermore, his voice not so much purrs but it definitely mosies along through the verses as if to say "sit back, enjoy, there is no rush." With that said I am confident in saying I think the studios may be the reason behind this album not making the 5-star cut. I say this because I feel all of these tracks would be glorius in a live setting; no fault at all.

Listen:
Van Morrison - "End of the Land" (mp3)

Buy the album, Keep It Simple

Labels: Van Morrison