VAN MORRISON Vinilo y CD

Review: New Arrangements & Duets is, says the label, "just a glimpse of the extensive unreleased material we plan to release soon, rather than letting it sit in an archive," featuring the Irish soulful singer-songwriting legend joined by a big band tracks - recorded in 2014 - and duets with Willie Nelson, Kurt Elling, Curtis Stigers and Joss Stone all recorded in 2018-9. With unique versions of tracks that went on to have new arrangements, selected by Chris White and Paul Moran, this is a great addition to the collection for Van Morrison fans.

Review: In 1959, Van Morrison made his debut on the stage of Orangefield Secondary School, performing with the skiffle group Midnight Special, featuring John McCullough on tea-chest bass, Cyril Downey and Billy Ruth on guitars, Walter Blakely on washboard, and Van on guitar and vocals. Fast forward to August 2014, Morrison returned to Orangefield for three farewell performances as the school prepared to close its doors forever. These shows were recorded for the album Live at Orangefield, capturing the mood of this significant event. Opened in 1957, Orangefield initially served as a boys' school before merging with the girls' school. It remained an educational and social hub for thousands of students from East Belfast and beyond until its closure in 2014 and subsequent demolition three years later. This double heavyweight black vinyl album not only celebrates Morrison's formative years but also shows his ability to imbue his memories with energy, poetic reinvention, and a sense of timelessness. The album is about a exhilarating, poignant, and romantic musical journey.

Review: Legendary singer-song writer and musician Van Morrison's Now Playing album is one that showcases all of the many different sides to his sounds across a range of great tunes. The tracklist takes in a brilliantly rich mix of soulful ballads, such as 'Sweet Thing' and more careful and introspective tunes like 'Into the Mystic,' alongside some more energetic sounding pieces like the wonderful 'Moondance' and 'Domino.' Blending jazz, soul, and rock influences in ways only he can, Morrison's music always delivers a this album in particular makes for a great ride through his work.