The classic Van Morrison album Astral Weeks was released in 1968, when he was just 22 years old. Since then it has been hailed as one of the most precious gems in rock and roll history. While initially a cult-favorite, over time the album has become a staple of influence in the rock genre, inspiring a variety of artists and becoming a Grammy Hall of Fame album. At the prestigious Hollywood Bowl venue in November 2008, Van Morrison performed the album live, in its entirety to the delight of diehard fans and rock critics worldwide. This is the recording of the performance, released for the first time.
What is perhaps the most interesting aspect of this album is its obvious maturity. Long gone is the rough and tumble wayward Morrison of 22 and in his place is the time hardened 60 something Morrison, weathered by life and, in a way, reinterpreting his youth. “Cyprus Avenue – You Came Walking Down” is one of the best examples of this. Something about the bluesy shuffle and mumbled lyrics signals that this is not the same man (in ideal or intent) that recorded the original. Much of the album is like this in fact. “Sweet Thing” and “Listen to the Lion – The Lion Sleeps Tonight” sound familiar but something about Morrison’s voice and performance make them feel fresh in much the same way that Bob Dylan’s live revisiting of his classics do. Although the songs are more obviously familiar than Dylan’s live works, the spirit seems very much the same.
Overall this is an intriguing album for fans of Van Morrison’s work. If you have never heard or are only slightly familiar with the original album than this live rendition will likely be lost on you in regards to its importance in the Morrison discography. I suggest checking out the original first if you are unfamiliar but don’t miss the opportunity to compare this revisiting to it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by what both have to offer.
Reviewed by Mark Fisher
