Moondance

A classic.

Vastly preferable to the live album on here, mainly for the reduced length,but also a lot less of a big headed aura. Unfortunately, the damage is done, I don't like Van Morrison.

3.5-4

My mom's all-time favorite album and her favorite song. It's a chill record that retains just enough flair to avoid the Billy Joel cheese territory.

Not my fave Van, but important.

I like van

3.8 2x

My mate’s dad used to play with Van Morrison years ago. Van was such an insufferable arse that none of the band could stand him. To get their own back, the band would get Van’s harmonica and, each night, would drag it up their arse crack. Van would blow his lungs out on that shitty harmonica every gig they played that tour. The man is that much of a dickhead. Anyway, the dickhead made a 5⭐️ album here

- Favorites while listening to the album: And it Stoned Me (acoustic solo is really tasty as well as the piano solo is great), Moondance, Crazy Love (Absolute Favorite), Caravan, oh fuck it I love every song - like it a lot more than The Doors self-titled album - I like his vocals a lot, its nothing too special but definitely a high recognition value :) - this album surely has me in a grip; the mixture of blues, rock, jazzy elements and soul, compliments each other really well - its remarkable how well he can adjust his voice to each genre -Van’s singing is pure expression, pure sound; the band moves off and then forward again - A graceful soprano saxophone holds notes behind Morrison’s words, absolutely wonderful - “Into the Mystic” I’d say is the heart of Moondance; the music unfolds with a classic sense of timing, guitar strums fading into notes on a piano, the bass counting off the pace - the lines of the song are gorgeous - that’s what listening to this album feels like: a lush, sunny Sunday morning in my old berlin flat, just putting my morning vinyl on (still in my Pyjamas) and drinking a hot cup of green tea with a bit of honey, enjoying the sun and smoking a cigarette on my balcony; after that I’ll choose my fit of the day -> can’t decide but the leather jacket, that I got off the fleamarket, which smells like an old closet and basement, will definitely be a part of it :DD - I think Morrison itself is such an interesting person, his journey of finding his sound, his admiration and love for music is something you can really feel in his songs - 100% sure that I am going to come back to this album, and I am certain that this belongs in my vinyl collection, absolutely astonishing album with otherworldly compositions and vocals - it is such a feel good album and for me kind of time machine into what the 60s might have felt like OVERALL: 5/5

Really good, I like his work. I've heard this all before but I still like it and will listen to it many more times. Very chilled out smooth lyrics with nice music. Great music for relaxation and reflection.

Van Morrison simply did not miss between November of 1968 and 1972, when he put out five consecutive five-star albums. This was the second, and by far the most popular, in the streak, and who can argue with it? It displays an unreal range of songwriting, composition, and vocal chops, and that's just the first four songs.

Bummer he turned into an anti vax boomer weirdo. I always liked his weird voice since I was a kid. The first half of this album is a total classic to me and has my favorite songs of his. Sorta falls off near the end, but mostly that's because the first half is so strong.

Shear brilliance

I don't know - I just really didn't like any of this. 1.5 / 10

Nice, bluesy. Really enjoyable album overall. 4/5

Sweet album

I love Tracey Chapman more than I do Van Morrison. Jim Morrison however is highley likely.

Can only listen to so much van the man.... It's the combination of his fake American accent, and the jazziness of it all. I want to like it more.

sympa la vibe

It’s fine, but not really what I feel like listening to at all

You know I don't love Van Morrison but it's tough to deny that he has good songs with great melodies that are pretty pleasant. This record was a fine drizzly Friday morning listen.

Few drinks and put this on 👍

whatever

Nice listen

3/5

It sounds good Will I listen to again: 25%

Relaxed fare, pretty good.

Good, cozy, classic rock.

Me gustó, tiene un par que son clásicazos, pero tampoco diría que va a estar entre mis favoritos de los escuchados por aquí. Bueno, nada más.

Such a lovely album!

Classics album not listen to it before but know a lot of songs

Was a great album. A shame he turned into a weirdo in his later years.

The spectre of brown eyed girl hung heavy over this. The last song was very much a rip off if it but the whole album had that general feeling. Not Van Morrisons fault I suppose, that's what he sounds like. The perks of having one massive hit that clouds the rest of your work. I don't mind the sound I suppose if I try really hard to forget brown eyed girl but it's not particularly exciting. Sounds authentic but could do with a bit more variation. 2.5.

The answer to the question, "what happens if you try to recapture the sing-along wonder of Brown Eyed Girl on every song of an album?" It isn't bad, but it is repetitive, and merges into one. Moondance of course the standout. I think Mr. Van suffers from having such a distinctive voice, which, combined with the instrumentation and construction, lead to all songs sounding near identical. La la la la, or sha la la la la la la? Time will be the judge.

My dad played Van a lot when I was growing up and I do really like him. Apparently a grumpy fucker though. This is probably better than astral weeks and I gave that a 4. Not sure it's all of the same high quality though so I'll go with 4.5 here. Highlights: And it stoned me Moondance Into the mystic Glad tidings

No.

I loved listening to this. It's a lively fusion, of rock, blues, soul, and singer-songwriter, with Van Morrison himself being the star performer. Morrison's voice is punchy, powerful, and surprisingly unique (given the enormous number of vocalists in the soul scene by the 1970s). He varies his tone from tender to wild to mournful, and everything between, throughout the album's tracks. The drumming is usually light, swung, and very committed to a jazz sound (this is good). The acoustic guitar is lovely, drifting in and out of the mix as appropriate; similar comment about backing vocals, brass, and other "guest" instruments like the flute in the title track. Every song on side 1 is utterly fantastic. And sure, the latter half of the album is a little more forgettable, but it maintains the sound/stylistic quality of the first half and keeps me wanting more. 5/5 Key tracks: And It Stoned Me, Moondance, Crazy Love, Caravan, Into The Mystic

Van Morrison is obviously a bit of a crank weirdo but he can make some good tunes

The whole album was really enjoyable but the title song was my favorite.

Just re-purchased this album recently. It sounds amazing and every song is great.

Not at all what I was expecting, but very soft and mellow and sweet. Some songs felt like a late summer evening and some felt like a quiet, rainy, fall afternoon. Added a few songs to a soft playlist for later listening.

eloquent and gentle album that shifts between jazz, singer-songwriter, americana, and rock while still maintaining that easy confident air that comes from Van Morrison. It's easy to see why he's so popular.

Van the man at his finest.

own

No major thoughts, eh

Expected a mix between Van Halen and Morrissey. Was disappointed.

The first time I heard “Into the Mystic” was at the movie theatre watching “Dream a Little Dream”. Only the first half of the song was used but man I wanted the rest of it. There is just something magical about the flow and elegance of it. This entire album can be described as whimsical. “Everyone” has a feeling like you are dancing through a Renaissance Festival. “Stoned Me” is a classic-rock radio standard and “Crazy Love” reflects the love that we all wish we had time and again. Then he brings it all home with “Glad Tidings”, an uptempo song that leaves you feeling rejuvenated at the end of a midday nap in the sun with the one you love. I found this album recently on vinyl and have been loving it. Fortuitous timing I guess.

While Van Morrison the person is debatable, his music is not. This is peak Van and the first 5 songs of this album might be the best side 1 of any LP, ever. Side 2 isn't quite there but it's hard to compare to side 1. Don't make me choose my favorite track because it is impossible. I love them all. His voice and smooth music is so amazing and soothing. I need to listen to this one more often.

Perfection

For me it all kind of blended together into just a 38min long track. It's not bad, but not much stood out to me Standouts Moondance 3/5

nice

I made it to the end of this album. Couldn't tell you anything about it other than "insipid waitrose music". Not 1* on an objective basis, but a personal one definitely.

Felt like I was in an epsiode of the Wonder Years

A dreamy interstellar voyage captained by a bohemian mystic with tasseled sleeves. It’s as hard to unhear the dad rock factor as it is to not be melted by the swaying rhythms and bluesy vocal hooks. Gaelic R&B at its most accessible, maybe.

What an album. Great sound and great music. Van has such a distinctive voice and I really enjoyed it.

Good album with some really catchy songs. Really like Van Morrison’s vocals and the songs are well written. Good listen and will definitely listen again.

Blah blah blah blah blah blah blah

I enjoyed this album! Nothing bad in it. Nothing amazing but a well crafted album all atound

Never liked him much after Brown Eyed Girl. Then he became Mr. Conspiracy.

Still great.

Van the Man! Legend!

Oh, Van. Another I went into with a heavy bias. Van Morrison has always been an artist I didn't like listening to. Was I just being an ass? The album opens. OK. When he's singing in the lower part of his range, he's really pretty good. Not sure what the hell being stoned like jelly roll means, but I'm not aggravated. Maybe today is the day I discover the wonder of VM. "Moondance." Yeah, I've heard it about 700 too many times, but at least it's not "Brown Eyed Girl," which legit sends me into a downward spiral. There's a begrudging charm to the tune. And then... it happens. The whiny upper register. The suspicion that he doesn't actually mean anything he's singing. Like he recognizes these words would sound sensible if he sang them in this way, with just the right pause here and here, that he might get listeners to believe he's got a real suite of emotions under his arrogant exterior. And on it goes. And it gets harder to endure. And the arrangements start revealing themselves as trite and forced. Those background singers must have really hated working on this project. And then the record starts again and I'm mad at myself for tolerating the lyric about the fucking jelly roll. Fucking Van Morrison.

Yeah, this is pretty great. Nothing is as good as Astral Weeks, but this collection is so laden with hooks and tasty arrangements that it's an embarrassment of riches. Twenty years ago, this would have been an easy 5 for me. Today, I don't love it as much, but it still gets me tapping the steering wheel and singing and just generally embarrassing my daughter.

It's overplayed and a classic for a reason and it continues to stone me.

I really vibed with the mix of rock, folk and jazz with this album. It was really chilled and laid back, but I also felt like I could dance along as well. A lot of fun, and I really enjoyed it.

Knew a lot of the songs without knowing I knew them. Songs are sweet but somewhat boring. I like Crazy Love and Caravan. Last 3-4 songs all sound like one never-ending song that is just Brown Eyed Girl with slightly different words.

A true piece of mastery. 5

Hardly A Van Morrison fan, but I enoyed much more than expected.

Somewhere at the center of r&b, folk, soul, jazz, pop, and soft rock is Van Morrison’s Moondance. Interesting sound here, as it’s a pretty sparse and mellow band that also features horns and occasional winds. Poetic love songs sung by a guy with an excellent voice and unique sound. Plenty of little ear worm hooks that get lodged in the brain. Pretty good record that certainly has classic status but won’t crack my regular rotation because it just never really gets me where I’m going. Easy to listen to but doesn’t grab me.

LP

I can’t stress enough how ok this was.

The album it self was kinda bad, but the recommendations based on it were very good, so it's clearly impactful

I've heard the album before. Interesting mix of styles, all punctuated by his instantly identifiable vocals. Very listenable and lively. A few classics here, and Moondance is still a wonder; doesn't seem like there is anything like it on another rock album. A classic album -- strong 4 stars.

Yeah, I have always really enjoyed this album, but it's been too long since I listened to it start-to-end. Thanks 1001!

Into the Mystic is one of my favorite songs, period. The rest of the album is soothing and easy on the ears. Not sure how such beauty could be created by a person who later becomes an antisemitic conspiracy theorist curmudgeon. Five stars minus one for knowing what I know in 2024.

Great vocals and songwriting. Pleasant and relaxed.

Don't think I had ever listened to the entire album before. Really enjoyed it...will definitely listen to it again.

I don't get the love Van Morrison gets. His voice is grating beyond belief. The faux jazz interludes are irritating and then he adds a harpsichord. Ugh! Plus he's a cranky, crusty individual whom I never want to cross paths with. Forget it.

Like an old comfy sweater

Amazing album mixed of jazz, r&b, blues, pop styles

Ambient songs!

Y'know, I've actually heard this album. Yeah, I know this kind of album isn't exactly in my normal wheelhouse, it's true. I heard it one time, years and years ago—I'd wager at least six or seven of the buggers. I believe I was tryna start listening to the entire 2012 Rolling Stone 500 list, and this was the only album I heard before I got distracted and forgot, but it's been so long, and with a memory like mine, I can't really say for sure. I'll say this much: I remember exactly as much about it from hearing it six or seven years ago as I do from hearing it an hour ago. Like, I'unno. Maybe I was just in the wrong headspace when I put it on, but it kinda just washed over me. Perfectly pleasant, except for some, like... Dips into jazz, I think? They were out of place and I didn't like them, whatever they were. But other than that, I remember better the fact that this guy made a shitty anti-COVID restrictions song with Eric Clapton than a single second from this, his most acclaimed album. Honestly, I just can't bring myself to care. Still, I'm willing to be generous and give this thing a 3, because even how forgettable it was, I don't think I disliked enough about it to go full-on with a 2. It's teetering, though, believe me. Sorry, Van. Y'jus' ain't "the man" to me.

I really dig this singer-songwriter album that just so happens to have a full band. Of course, most people know of Van Morrison from Brown Eyed Girl so hearing what else he made besides that track makes me appreciate that song more in retrospect. 4.5 bumped up to 5.

I’m at a highly recommended 4.5 that I'll bump up to a 5, again. Much like the Pretenders album felt kind of like the first real album of the 1980s in terms of setting the tone from a production, instrumental, and lyrical standpoint, I think this album might’ve really set the tone as the first real album of the 1970s. Yes, you could call me a complete moron and point to Abbey Road as such, far ahead of schedule, and I would call that valid. However, I really think this touches deeper into the sort of folksy Americana that defined the direction the U.S. took as a way to reclaim its own sound from Beatlemania, and in that way, it feels like the first album of the 70s from an entirely American perspective. I fucking loved this. The only reason it’s not at a flat 5 to begin with is because I do think some tracks don’t tonally mix super well as a cohesive album from front to back (very specifically targeting “Everyone” here, but Come Running kinda suffers from this as well), and sometimes his vocals are too incomprehensible because he’s throwing too much emotion into them… but those are realistically nitpicks in the long run. They might bite at me more on subsequent listens, but I shouldn’t care that much. I think just about every track here is a fantastic showcase of this jazz/swing/rock hybrid that gets nailed to perfection in terms of the soundscapes – there’s some really stunning stuff, and the 2013 remasters do them incredible justice in terms of balancing and mixing. Before listening to this, the only Van Morrison song I was aware of was Brown Eyed Girl, and I’m so very glad this isn’t just 39 more minutes of songs that sound suspiciously like that. This is a really, REALLY good album, and it’s very deserving to be on the list. I’m surprised that I’ve never interacted with any of these songs before now, but they’re deeply down my alley. Just a great album, and a very easy one to bump up to a 5.

178/1001 🌕🌕🌕🌗🌑

Good album if you like the singer songwriter thing

Titular song is absolute fire, easy 5/5 song. The rest is just alright, nothing worse than like a 3. It's a 3/5 album, but damn if every song was as good as moondance this would be top 5.

Really excellent album as a whole with a number of excellent individual songs. An all time favourite for sure.

A good listen.

Best songs : Into the mystic, Come running, Moondance Started off okay, then picked up a little in the middle, and then dipped really low by the end. Wanted to give it 3.5 stars when I heard Into the mystic and Come running, but there's not one good song after those two, and I skipped a couple halfway through. 3 stars because it's an easy going album that you can play in the background. Its very chill, and some songs have a nice, smooth, good feel to them. A mix of jazz, blues and country. Not bad. But not that great as well. Nothing I'd play again and listen to in full length on purpose. So maybe a 2.5? Not decided the rating yet. Will decide when I reach the rating page. I don't think there's an option to give half a star, so 3 it is.

Really enjoyed this. Think he sounds far newer than late 60s/ early 70s

I’d never heard this album, I knew some songs. What an awesome album. In fact, I turned around and listened to it again. Love this album and I think I’m going to enjoy listening to his other albums. There is a reason artists cover his material.

Actually surprised how much I enjoyed this. It is chill and fun. I like his voice and the upbeat songs are fun.

Nostalgic and soooo good

Boring slog

The regular 'Morri reminder' that it's about the music not the musician!

Moondance has always been one of my favorite albums. I know Astral Weeks is the album everyone puts down as Van Morrison's best album, but this one always stood out to me. There is no song on there that I don't like

Some of the songs really nice. Moondance the tune has worked its way into the jazz world and I've sung it myself as a "standard," so that gets some credit. Crazy Love and Mystic kinda stand out. But each song makes me think, hmmm I'd enjoy this so much more if someone else was singing. I wonder what this stuff would have sounded like if someone else had produced it. Also, just noting that this is the 16th album for me on this listening project and, aside from background singers and Carol Kaye on bass, there has been zero female representation.

Country rock ish with some blues and soul elements to it as well. A bit hard to place. Good album, but not for me. Pretty similar tracks throughout the album.

4.75

Bueno rollo tranqui por la mañana

Classic full of classic songs. Incredible 5 song run to start the record. Catchier and hookier than Astral Weeks, much more immediately engaging but I do think it loses some of the majesty that Astral Weeks had. Into the Mystic is one of the greatest songs of all time, can listen to it endlessly. Love the production on this, feels very warm and the added horns and back up vocals add a ton of depth. Impeccable run tune too, nothing feels over stated and at 38 min and change it’s easy enough to pop on for repeated listens. Great record

listen to again sweet. nice. favs are: crazy love? ig? glad tidings.

some easy listening

Already know this will be a five, just such a good album and basically my childhood.

Aika tasapaksua. Kevyttä rokkia, vähän bluesmaista. Meni taas taustalla, mutta muuten vähän tylsähköä. Parhaat: Into the Mystic, Brand New Day

Much more folksy than I thought it would be

Turns out, Van is the Man! Great Album

2.5 rounded down bland as all hell. idk maybe i’m just in a hater mood highlights: moondance (aug 24 2024)

This album was... okay? I didn't love it. But I also didn't hate it. This is one of those LP's where it feels like the artist/band were having a few music sessions and just rolled with that for the release. Which can really go either way. It's either going to be a pretty fun listen, or it's not going to click overall with a wide audience other than the artist/band performing it; or just the hardcore fans. Maybe I'm in the minority seeing as 'Moondance' was a commercial success. That, or Van Morrison does just happen to have a huge hardcore fanbase. Once you have listened to the opener 'And It Stoned Me' - You can rest assured that this is pretty much the entire tracklist. If you like that 70's rhythm and blues sound, sprinkled with some jazzy rock 'n' roll, this will probably be right up your alley. Theoretically, this should be up my alley. But there's just not enough of a punch or variety to bring it up a level a level for me. Lyrically everything is fine. Morrison really goes in on spirituality and contextualises his observations and commentary through that spirituality. It feels inspired, hopeful, and his lyrics do flow nicely. For me, personally, I just can't find much to relate with. It's a decent album; and I think even if you're not a fan you can find something to appreciate here. Would I consider it a "must listen", though? Not really. But I also wouldn't tell you to ignore it completely.

Brilliant

Not as bad as I thought it was going to be, but I didn't have high expectations. Mostly it's fine, but And Then It Stoned Me is the only song I'd want to hear again and the album does tail of towards the end with a couple of real duffers.

Alright not really my speed. Will need another listen!

There are only a couple of Van Morrison albums I really enjoy and Moondance is one of them. Never been a fan of the man, but the music on Moondance is beautiful, mellow and laid-back and highlights Van Morrison's strength as a songwriter and his talent to write a great song, when he wants to. The title track is marvelous! A classic, if you're into this sort of thing.

Moondance I’ve never been a massive fan of the title track, I do appreciate it, but I’m not as keen as I am on the rest of the album, which includes a couple of my favourite VM tunes - Crazy Love, Caravan, Into the Mystic, Everyone and Glad Tidings. It’s easy to see it as suffering in comparison to Astral Weeks, but even though it is the follow up it’s a very different proposition, and of course a fantastic album in its own right. Whereas AW is more impressionistic, ethereal and abstract, MD is more concrete and conventional, although you can still hear the threads of AW in some of the jazziness and the horns and in the philosophical delicateness of tracks like Into the Mystic. And it Stoned Me is kind of emblematic of the departure from AW; a little bit of jazz but mainly a kind of soulful r’n’b folk rock with more traditional structures. Love the rolling piano. Like I say I’m not a huge fan of Moondance, although I can see why its popularity has endured, but Crazy Love is an absolutely superb song, again kind of wonder how such a knobhead could write so tenderly. Caravan is great, The Last Waltz version is possibly even better than this, but it pairs brilliantly with Into the Mystic. I’ve already mentioned it twice, I know, but it’s absolutely superb - mesmeric and strange, but with palpable warmth and sense of magic. I never tire of hearing it. Come Running works really well with These Dreams of You, great bits of soulful folk pop. Come Running in particular is very catchy. Lovely bit of slightly bluesy business on Brand New Day and some super backing vocals. Everyone, another super track has that lovely harpsichord and a great upbeat melody. Great use in the Royal Tenenbaums. And I love Glad Tidings, the bass really drives it forward and the horn arrangement and answering motif to the ‘la la la la’ is great. Also used really well in The Sopranos, particularly the ‘bring you glad tidings from New York City line’. Because I love Astral Weeks I sometimes forget what a fantastic album this is, it’s been great listening to it today. Can’t be anything but a 5. 🌙🌙🌙🌙🌙 Playlist submission: Into the Mystic

So sick. This album rocks. I’m starting to think VM can’t miss.

Platonic ideal of a blue-eyed-soul album. Man, I hope this Van Morrison guy doesn't develop any questionable views in his old age!

One of my favorite albums of all time. Love Van Morrison. Love this album.

A few great songs but the rest seems to be all the same. And It Stoned Me - Somewhat awkward beginning, soft, but delivers some good instrumentation. What is Jelly Roll? Moondance - Familiar song. Sounds like some old lounge songs. Good. Crazy Love - Too soft for me Caravan - Sounds like just another Van Morrison song Into the Mystic - Familiar classic. Good. Come Running - Starting to tire of this style These Dreams of You - Another similar sounding song to my ears with some solos Brand New Day - More of the same. I need some more energy Everyone - Forgettable Glad Tidings - Seems a little more upbeat but not enough

I could not have told you what kind of music Van Morrison was before this album came up here, but I really liked it. Thanks to this week's albums I now know the difference between Morrissey and Van Morrison. "And It Stoned Me" is a great, catchy opener. "Into the Mystic" is the top track.

Ed Sheeran 100% stole “Crazy Love”. Van has a good voice, but, with the possibly exception of the title track, even the big songs are bland AF. Disappointingly boring album.

Well, after previously claiming that no Van Morrison albums belong on the list, this is... embarrassing. I always liked the sound on Astral Weeks, but it is an uneven album. This follow-up is a very solid album with a totally new sound. Good songs, and Morrison's distinctive voice on top form. The blend of blues, folk and soul touches into pop-rock works great. The album has variety but it hangs together well. I'm not allowing my judgement to be clouded by the next 50 years of stodgy releases and Covid misinformation mania that came from Van the Man... 4.5*

eu consigo ver os pontos bons desse álbum realmente consigo, ele é bem gostosinho, mas tipo definitivamente não é meu estilo de música, talvez ouviria ele jogando um red dead 2

minha nota de vdd é 3½ ok ? PELO DIREITO ÀS MEIAS ESTRELAS ✊

Meio paia. Não é o meu estilo. Me lembra de The Office naquele episódio que a Jan ouve a música do assistente dela narrando o sexo que tiveram juntos.

That was very good! Sweet and to the point.

Van Morrison's voice doesn't appeal to me. Outside of that, a bit of cultural appropriation. Overrated. Extra point for everybody here hitting the notes at the right time. Not my jam.

I only had one song off this album saved when I went to spotify to listen but then hit play and realized I knew this whole album! absolutely something my dad (presumably) put on when I was a kid. I love it I love his voice and I love the use of the saxophone.

I wasn't impressed much by this album on my first listen, but I definitely am appreciating it more the second time around. I feel like this would be perfect music to play while cleaning the house. Very peaceful and relaxing.

Fantastic listen. His most consistent album in my opinion. Quite the departure from Astral Weeks which was very jammy and spaced out. These songs are much tighter, more radio friendly and they stick in your head in a good way.

Not particularly offensive, but not my thing

One of the best albums EVER!

I love it. 5

Great album Standout songs: And it stoned me Caravan Everyone

Shitty people can make great art.

Is there a single note out of place in this record? Rich and unhurried and oh so thoughtful, it's fully enjoyable and listenable in any weather or mood. A time-well-spent or bettered-by-every-hearing sort of record. Both sides contain gems galore and when a song as overplayed as the title cut holds up so well over time, one knows the quality is deep and lasting. "And It Stoned Me" is an all-time opener, feels like the opening scene of a Shakespeare play in the sense that the dialogue starts right out of the gate and and so compellingly. "Into the Mystic" is at once elevating and soothing and every other cuts offers considerable pleasures and intrigues. Just great.

Nice.

What an great album.

It's not until you hear Moondance back-to-back with Crazy Love that you realize Michael Buble is really just a (poor) Van Morrison tribute act. This was my first time listening to a whole Van Morrison album. Overall I enjoyed it. The Irish-folk-tinged blue-eyed soul is very smooth listening — like a quintessential Starbucks album before coffee shop music really existed. Some of the lyrics, particularly the choruses, are pretty lazy — a lot of ay-yay-yays and la-la-las — but otherwise he's a good songwriter. The downside is that it's kind of boring. Most of the songs sound pretty similar to each other (and the opening track basically rips off the melody of The Weight by The Band). The last two tracks, Everyone and Glad Tidings, are the only songs that really sound significantly different, but even then, Glad Tidings is basically a retread of Morrison's earlier hit, Brown Eyed Girl (there's even an overt guitar reference to it). 4/5 — probably a 3.5, but I'll round up because I'd definitely listen to this again on a lazy Sunday.

Good album.

An absolutely singular voice in the history of music.

Moondance // Crazy Love // Into the Mystic // Brand New Day //

Van the man! I love this album

I was just thinking it was a bit odd that I hadn't gotten a Van Morrison album yet, and here we finally are. This is his third album, released in early 1970, and it's great. I guess his previous album (which I believe is also on this list) was a bit more of an abstract folk-jazz thing which didn't land as well commercially, so he went a more lively rhythm / blues on this one, and hit it out of the park. It's not the most groundbreaking thing in the world, but the execution is basically perfect. It's soulful and folky and jazzy and light-sounding and enjoyable. The lyrics are contemplative and ful of wonder and love. It would work on an easy Sunday morning with a cup of coffee, or a late Saturday night after a bottle of wine with someone you love. It was hard to pick my favorite song. "Crazy Love" slightly edges out "Into the Mystic" for me, but they're both great. The first half is definitely the stronger half, but there's some real gems on the B-side as well ("Glad Tidings" is awesome to end it). It's a bit simple, but sometimes that's ok, this is great (I do think the album cover is pretty weak though, that's my complaint). Favorite song: Crazy Love Other: And It Stoned Me, Moondance, Caravan, Into the Mystic, These Dreams of You, Brand New Day, Glad Tidings 7/29/24

One of those albums that is so ubiquitous that it's a little tough to hear it with fresh ears. But songs like "Come Running" help show how the whole album must have felt when it was new. This one that seems very of a time but captures it so well it's still a treat.

++: Crazy Love, Into the Mystic, Come Running +: And It Stoned Me, Moondance, These Dreams of You, Brand New Day, Everyone, Glad Tidings +-: Caravan 7,9/10

Hard to believe he's Irish. Great voice and soul.

Sometimes 1001 albums gets me to listen to an artist I've never really liked, and if the album doesn't win me around, I can at least spend the time trying to work our why. I've never really cared for Van Morrison and this album has only confirmed my feeling. At first I theorised it was because it was too middle-of-the-road: a sort of Travis of it's time (though if you know me, you'll know that's a very savage appraisal. So, maybe a Stereophonics of it's time.) But I quite like it musically, and indeed, I active enjoyed Moondance, the song. It was a fun jazzy swinging time. I just wished it was someone else singing it. And that's when I figured out why I don't like Van Morrison. I don't like his voice. Which is kind of important for a singer. It feels like he is bellowing at me. He is a sort of aggressive or macho crooner. Whilst it's meant to be soothing, it actually puts me on edge! I feel like I've personally done something to upset him. It sort of sits with Springsteen, Janis Joplin, and Joe Cocker in that way (though the latter I like). Hmm. Is it a white people thing? Are they confusing soul with shouting? Maybe. And now I've identified the reason, I'm finding his voice even more grating! Only two songs to go. I very much look forward to this album being over. One song to go. Do you think we could use AI to remove Van Morrison from this Van Morrison album? Then we could just hear the nice backing singers. It's over. I'm putting on Harvest by Neil Young as a palette cleanser.

Absolute classic chill feel-good album.

Fogalmam se volt ki az a van morrison de tök király volt. 3.5/5

Brilliant

Okay, but nothing here was memorable for me.

Good album!

Really good. Lots of feel good music and a great Sunday listen.

I haven’t listened to this for quite a few years and remembered enjoying it but not this much. Every song is just absolutely fantastic. It combines every I love about Morrison’s music, with the ethereal headiness of Astral Weeks on songs like And It Stoned Me and Into the Mystic as well as the stellar hooks on Everyone, Brand New Day and the title track

This is the reason I LOVE and LIVE for music as a whole, this was wonderful to listen to. The first five songs going into this are extraordinary. There are absolutely no duds on here whatsoever. You can really feel the passion and fire that Van Morrison puts into these tracks. All of them having fantastic production as well as beautiful, poetic, and soulful vocals. After relistening to this a few times there is no doubt in my mind that I'll be happily listening to this for the rest of my life. Best - And It Stoned Me, Moondance, Crazy Love, Caravan, Brand New Day, Glad Tidings Worse - NONE 5/5

First time listening to it. I quite liked the sound, though it didn't blow me away. It's a perfectly nice album

3.5 pretty good

Ooh, I actually liked this far more than I had anticipated . Missed a 5 star because it drops off a bit towards the end. A nice find though

Favorite Tracks: Into the Mystic Moondance Crazy Love

One of my favorite albums.

Extraordinary dad music, up there with Springsteen. Gravelly singer-songwriter schtik with a bit of additional jazz sophistication. He has a sort of sepia songwriting style that seems to mean nothing and everything. Lends itself cosily to film soundtracks, Belfast a great example, but occasionally evocative of a sort of weepy in-the-old-days sentimentality you may get watching that hovis advert from the 70s. With this album, Morrison switches his more experimental circumlocutory meanderings for more tightly composed, mature pop music. The unfortunate side effect is the album is both occasionally dull and appears in every middle aged man's car CD collection, which doesn't help matters. Moondance, as a track, has a swing affectation I personally despise but I can appreciate the weary cosy groove present in pockets over the rest of the album

4/5

The more I listen to Van Morrison the more I like his music, it's a shame he's such a tool in real life :( This album is fantastic, every song hits and it has two songs that I consider to be some of the greatest songs ever written (Caravan and Moondance). MASTAPIECE

Van Morrison is kind of a crappy person, but I can’t deny he’s made some amazing music. This is absolutely my favorite album of his. The first half is definitely stronger than the second half, but it’s still pretty good top to bottom. “And It Stoned Me,” “Crazy Love,” and “Everyone” are my favorite songs on the album. I especially love “Everyone” because of its use in The Royal Tenenbaums, which is my favorite movie. To me, Van Morrison has great singles more so than albums, but this is definitely his masterpiece.

Has not aged well.

I adore this record!

Classic!

Good work. Highlights: And It Stoned Me Moondance Caravan Brand New Day

Good vibes, works well as background music while doing chores or making dinner.

Saucy

mhmmm

I enjoyed this one, lot of good songs, some of which sound like Brown Eyed Girl. Solid album length. There’s one guitar part on Into the Mystic that sounds similar to the Peace Train song. Low 5.

Pookie is looking pure fire

Yeah pretty good 7.5/10

9/10 - This was a fantastic album. I loved almost every song on it. And the cover art is actually so funny to me. I kind of wish the songs flowed together nicer and didnt all end in a fade out.

Very good. Almost a 5

This collection of songs feels like a cozy night by the fire. It's warm and inviting, and the saxophone adds a touch of magic. It's hard not to tap your feet or sway along. Perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Chill den og

While listening to this I feel like he looks on the album cover. This music is simply not nearly enough to trigger any meaningful emotional response from me, but it's perfectly pleasant to listen to.

Fifty years later, this album is still a fantastic listen from start to finish! We’ve listened to it many, many times over the years so know every song well. L’s rating: best album so far (3.9*s) J’s rating: Flawless (5.0*s)

Listening to this album from start to finish was very nostalgic. I knew a bunch of the songs but my childhood brain never put it together that they were from the same album. Man, was I missing out, this album is stellar. So poetic and effortless, Van's signature tone really delivers on this one. Great storyteller, fantastic songwriter, excellent blend of folk, blues, and jazz. I love all of it.

So glad Van abandoned the styles of Astral Works and made this beauty. Much more upbeat and diverse. Title track is of course great (shout out to openmidz) but I say "Caravan" is my top track. "Into the Mystic" is also a lesser known great one. Woth 6 of 10 tracks hitting the mark...3.3.

Despite this album having a huge presence in our household I don't think I've ever listened to it in unison somehow. Not sure how I missed out for so long as Moondance has some quality tunes. Side A is fantastic and while Side B is weaker it is still good. I'm not huge on VM overall but Moondance deserves any praise it gets. I have to imagine this is Van at his best as many of his other work I've heard is relatively mellow and skippable. I suspect any remaining Van Morrison on the list will pale in comparison. I would be in favor of removing Astral Weeks as a start. 3.09 stars

Very calming record. It would be good to throw on during a relaxing evening.

It’s just so good!!

p205. 1970. 4 stars Quality Celtic soul, still sounds fresh today. Great vocals, fabulous horn section, all that's missing are more standout songs.

I hear where Elvis Costello got his white guy Irish soul inspiration from.

a little samey. got some standout tracks, incl. the singles, but everything else blends together a bit. it's a good blend though, and what a voice van has

Boooooo

Have Van Morrison and Dave Matthew’s ever been seen together? Just got a similar vibe between the two, not really the same musically I don’t know. It thought this was ok.

So far, Van Morrison is one of those artists you can’t seem to go wrong with. I say so far because I still have plenty more of his albums to work through. What I find really impressive about him is the way he blends so many different genres into his songs—from rock, folk, jazz, blues, and soul to R&B, and who knows how many more. While I like some of his stuff more than others, across the board, he makes really good quality music. This album is pretty good from beginning to end.

Add it to the pile of unnoteworthy sixties/70s soft rock projects

Great album, starting with five solid songs, four for the ages. I like the varying styles and excellent musicianship with Van's great voice leading the way. Liked songs added: - Moondance - Crazy Love - Caravan - Into The Mystic

i was very sleepy but this was nice

It’s Van Morrison. You know what you’re getting and what you’re getting is fine for a couple songs. Title track is a great song, followed by schlock that would befit 2010s era singer songwriters in Crazy Love. The rest of the album is fine, but I cannot stand Crazy Love.

Not a fan, but not terrible.

This album never gets old. Into the Mystic is one of the best songs - it can't be touched. The jazzy Moondance is a nice light dance and Everyone is bright.

How can you not love a man named Van?

Absolutely fucking not. Not just because he's a reprehensible prick, but also saxophone aside this is a very boring record.

Pretty decent album, a classic.

Very good

I love the song Moondance, but I found the album as a whole a little annoying. I can't quite put my finger on why. I think this one needs a relisten at some point.

6/10. It was pleasant, but not too groundbreaking or intriguing. :)

Gobshite

Helt udmærket fra begyndelsen, sniger sig op på 4 ved de sidste 2-3 numre. Rigtig godt album

En af de bedste stemmer nogensinde, lækker plade. Håber dælme ikke at en af Van Morrisons sidste plader var 2½ timer lang mest med sange om at corona er en hoax med titler som "Why Are You on Facebook?" og "Where have all the rebels gone?", det ville godt nok være deprimerende

Nød den ret meget. Stemmen virker super bekendt, men tror ikke at jeg nogensinde bevidst har hørt noget med ham

Having only heard of Van Morrison from the uber-popular "Brown-Eyed Girl", I was interested in this pull. I would put points against this album because even though it only had a 38 minute runtime, I ended up checking out mentally at parts, particularly in the back half. That being said, the initial 2 tracks were outstanding, and there were multiple songs on the record that wowed me. "Moondance" is a song I've heard for years and assumed it was a standard from the 50s or earlier, so I was pleasantly surprised to hear it on this album. For my money, that song should be his overplayed song over "Brown-Eyed Girl". In summation, there are times where Van's voice doesn't really thrill me and some of the songs were bland, but what I did like I really liked, and there's much more range to this artist than I anticipated. Notable Tracks: - And It Stoned Me - Moondance - did not know this was a Van Morrison original! - Brand New Day - Everyone - harpsichord integrated surprisingly well with the rest of the straight forward pop instrumentation 6/10

Favourite tracks: and it stoned me; moon dance; crazy love; caravan; into the mystic; glad tidings

Holy shit. I really like this. Moondance is my love song

Great album. Smooth, distinctly Van Morrison. Has some hits. There's a lot to love here.

Memories unlocked by some of these songs.

Pretty standard 70’s rock-folk with clear singing and good instrumentals. A lot of the songs blended together for me, but that’s his dedication to a style and nobody does it quite like him. The title track is famous enough that I’ve heard it in multiple places as an instrumental, including what I swear was broadcasts of an old Italian news program my parents would have on back in my youth. It’s an ear worm for sure. For someone in to the soft rock or pop jazz genres this is probably a masterpiece. For me it’s kinda pleasant background music.

Classic. Great album all around

Not particularly for me. I think playing moondance at functions 1000 times has kinda ruined this guy for me lol

All rather pleasant. Even ‘er indoors who normally doesn’t cope with music said so.

Prior to listening to this entire album I did not realize it has so many of Morrison's classic songs. These include " And It Stoned Me", "Moondance (of course) and "Into The Mystic". Second half of album not the same level as first but still no question this is a must listen album.

Alegre

3 stars. decent but not exactly my thing

Veel leuker dan verwacht! Betekent dat we eindelijk weer eens een 4 krijgen? Oh nee zeker niet! Ik had echt 0 verwachtingen, maar dit album is eigenlijk gewoon de hele tijd "He is dit nou Brown Eyed Girl? Oh nee, het is net niet dat nummer en daardoor net niet zo leuk" Voordelen: Het is wel lekker bluesy en best wel lekker om op de achtergrond aan te hebben, maar als ik dit album nooit meer hoor ben ik daar ok mee. Als ik het nog wel hoor ook trouwens, zoals ik zei; het is echt een hele dikke prima. FAVO: Brand New Day, Everyone

Canciones favoritas: -Moondance -Into the Mystic -These Dreams of You -Everyone (esa flautica está bien fantástica *sale un bardo a tocar en la boda de una princesa*) Siento que está en esa delgada línea entre Country y Blues (folk?) y es esa parte de Country/Folk la que no me acaba de gustar. Seguro lo que más vale la pena son las letras, tal vez algún dia las lea. Es divertido de escuchar, nunca me aburrió.

As with more albums on this list, this is again a case of Side A vs Side B. If the whole album had the quality of the first 5 songs, this would be an absolute masterpiece

Vaguely cowboy lounge music

Sturlað albúm. Bara góð lög IMO nema Everyone (hvað var hann að pæla). Hann er gjörsamlega búinn að missa vitið í dag, en þarna á þessum tíma var hann bara good ole' fashioned kunta sem söng og glamraði mjög vel. Glad tidings er uppáhaldið mitt þarna útaf Sopranos þættinum þegar Tony skýtur Tony B (Steve Buscemi). Geggjuð sena. Bæng!

Van Morrisson ljúfur og góður. Fyrstu þrjú lögin gull og saxófónninn í These dreams of you.

I enjoyed listening to this album, he is such a crooner and whatever he sings sounds sexy! I too hope that @boopidoo's friend Claire got laid to Moondance, it is a pretty special track.

A friend in highschool wanted to lose her virginity to Moondance - I hope you got laid to the sweet dulcet tones of Van Morrison Claire.

Holy moly! What a great, laid back backyard kinda album. Great voice. Enjoyed the horns. Keeping it in the library. 5 stars!

no thanks man

Bit forgettable

Another album great in its time, even better today. A one of a kind talent.

2,5

This album may be the gold standard for five-star albums. One gorgeous song after another. I found myself wondering what it must have been like to be a musician playing on this. They must have known they were creating a masterpiece. The music is so gorgeous it is blocking out my conscience about his medical views…. Sigh… just sit back and let it stone you.

Yeah this is a good album, great mix of folk and jazz, deserves its place on the list.

Bluesy, me likey

BloobsPls

Jebeni van. Očeš ga mrziti ali ne ide 😃

i thought this whole thing was going to be the usual singer songwriter folk album but moondance surprised me. besides moondance and into the mystic, i cant really get behind the rest of the tracks. nothing wrong with them since theyre all pretty easy to listen to, but just not for me. i enjoyed side a more than side b though. 3 personal favs: into the mystic

Enjoyable, easy to listen, nothing to write home about.

Adorei, voz boa, som bom, pegada excelente. Muito boa a experiência.

def expected sth else. but pleased

booooring and also something about his accent made me feel weird. whats going on there.

Great album from a classic vocalist. Such a fantastic artist

Such a great collection of songs, And it Stoned Me, Into the Mystic, Moondance, Crazy Love, Come Running.. Yeah basically the whole album. Much more straight forward album then Astral Weeks and accessible but not nearly as good. It's a 4.5.

Every track here is pretty great. Excellent songwriting and top shelf musicians with Van Morrison’s soulful vocals make this easy pick. It’s a bonus that this record sounds wonderful.

Some really good songs on this record.

I enjoyed this one quite a bit. Some really good songs and some excellent sound production on it as well. Good stuff.

Love Moondance so why not

It was alright

An alright album. The first two songs were really strong but it kinda petered out after that. I do enjoy Moondance a lot though and never realized it was Van Morrison! Good voice and a fine album.

This dumbass makes some pretty good music

Like, it's mid??

Very beige. Didn't hate it, but it flowed over me in a background, pleasant enough, but dull as ditchwater way. 3 stars.

I grew up with my folks having this album on constant rotation - excited for a sweet hit of nostalgia tonight. "Into the Mystic" is one of my favorite Van Morrison tunes.

Hall of Fame. Desert Island Contender.

Slow start but some absolute slappers

Bette than Astral Weeks, not as good as Its Too Late to Stop Now, Van’s craft is bettered for the great band accompanying him. A few songs feel overly familiar from endless radio play but I guess that’s not his fault - but the familiarity breeds a little contempt from time to time. But generally a great sound and decent songs.

I first discovered this album, and more so the title song, back in high school. A girl I was dating had told me to listen to it and it was around that time that I had really been hearing a lot of this sort of classic rock. The relationship did not last very long, but my love for this song did. Even when I hear it now, I don't think about her so much as I think about me in high school during that time with my old radio cd player in my room. Into the Mystic is also a classic on here. Really glad this album made it on here!

Awesome album, been waiting for some Van Morrison. This one's got some big classics, the title track is such a bizarre but undeniable hit, the jazzy nature of it is so unique. "Caravan" is another big one, and beyond those there are still gems to be found in the deeper cuts. I love the texture of his voice, it feels nostalgic even on tracks I haven't heard before. Not sure how many more ways to say I love this, it just hits the spot. Favorite tracks: Moondance, Crazy Love, And It Stoned Me, Caravan, Come Running, These Dreams of You, Everyone, Glad Tidings. Album art: A few headshots of Van himself I'm assuming, one big one on the right and four smaller shots on the left, photo booth printout style. It's nothing crazy at all, but definitely more creative than the average portrait shot cover. Font is fine. 4.5/5

Really enjoyed this.

Shows why he's van the man

We enjoyed this a lot, which for sale reason was a surprise. Nice and folky with good vibes.

I purchased "Moondance" when I was in high school. My youth pastor and I shared a love of classic albums and he made me a list of 50 albums that he believes I should purchase. This album was on that list. I found a tape of "Moondance" in one of those old bargain bins where tapes used to go to die but you could find some gems. I paid $3.99 for it and never regretted the purchase for a second. Into the Mystic became one of my favorite songs and I am not 100% sure why that is. I also have always loved how it sounds like Van Morrison is singing "the night's magic seems to whisper Anne Heche." The sound of this album is cohesive, yet all over the place in some ways too. If you like this album, then you will probably like other Van Morrison albums as well. This album absolutely deserves a spot on this list.

Positive. Great voice. Great mood - many track would be good for an after party or early morning

decent

Somewhat different from the whole ordinary country tricks. Which I don't like. This one I respect for a different approach. 3.5/5.

Eh 3

Yeah, cracking album, even if Van is a bit of a dick. He can write a tune.

Some real heaters on here.

I never listened to this bloke until well into the 1980s when I was living in Ireland. Instantly appreciated the stature of his talent.. 4 stars.

Rating: 8.5/10 Great folk album with plenty of great vocal melodies and great instrumentation.

One of my favorite albums ever. It's perfect.

3/5

3.75

Eh. I don't like VM. And this album did nothing to change that opinion.

Van Morrison's popularity was one I got really confused about until I heard the music. Van Morrison offers some nice jazzy and country elements blended in, and it sounds amazingly well produced for the 70s. The vocals are very nice and smoothing, the instruments are well thought out and played, and overall, really nice sound. It's one of the more memorable albums of the early 70s, in my opinion. Solid album overall. 89/100

I grew up listening to Van Morrison so this one is a bit nostalgic. Reminds me of lazy summer evenings on the road, and pretty much every song hits.

вчера очень внимательно послушала, сегодня ничего не помню… кажется больше кантри чем джаза, приятный, но очень своего времени капсульный… возможно надо переслушать

Track 1 gaat o.a. over vissen en ik zit te vissen terwijl ik dit luister. Als ik sentimenteel was betekende dit een bonuspunt maar ik stuur niet op emotie natuurlijk. Ik ben niet gruwelijk onder de indruk van dit album. Misschien omdat ik rond 8 uur aan de waterkant arriveerde en al 3 uur geen enkel teken van leven heb gezien op m'n hengeltoppen. Wilhelminakanaal, altijd lastig met de methodfeeder. Het album heeft wel een wat melancholisch, feelgood-achtig sfeertje en dat is wel aangenaam. Ik vind z'n stem alleen verre van fijn, vooral die geknepen hogere tonen. Als ik heel eerlijk ben kan ik niet hoger geven dan 2 sterren. Dit is het niet voor mij, helaas.

Pretty good but really only came and left with the hits

V pleasant, no complaints

Core memories from childhood of my dad warbling Moondance off key. I think that this album is great straight through. Do I support Van Morrison? No. Have to separate the art and the artist

Mellow and vibey

Caravan is an amazing tune

Like solid 2.5, two opening tunes of high regard, but, not sure if he's a white guy stealing the blues.

Típico género canción. Mezclas de blues, folk... Buen cantante, es un meh.

pleasant Musik - brilliant voice

Super solid, couldn’t listen everyday.

Excellent, love it!

Great album. Fantastic voice, emotional lyrics.

Perfect. Could listen to this 100 times

I thought this was great. Van Morrison's voice obviously changed with age, but this was him at his best, and "Moondance" was particularly memorable.

Didn’t realize he had written many of these songs. I enjoyed it.

I’m a fan even though it’s before my time. Even love the sampling/remake mix of Into the Mystic that Zac Brown Band did. Have and will continue to listen to this album.

The title track was great, rest just ok

Good

From Wikipedia: "Among the most acclaimed records in history, Moondance frequently ranks in professional listings of the greatest albums [of all time]." Yes. Very much yes. This is one of the greatest albums ever made. If I were to limit myself to just 10 albums to take to a desert island where I could never listen to anything else, this would probably make the list.

The first two tracks are excellent, especially Moondance. The rest of the album is pretty good too. Nice use of flute, saxophone, harmonica, etc. His voice is unmistakable.

Moondance and Into the Mystic are great, the rest are decent