Reviews (page 9 of 15)
Love moondance
nice album I can put on in the background of an activity . lots of different influences like jazz and blues that i find catchy.
Very good album.
This is on my short list for favorite albums of all time. The title track is perhaps one of the worst on here, and it's still good. I really wish Van wasn't such an asshole, as I love his music.
Van Morrison - Moondance Such a feel good album to hear. Really enjoyable for a folk album, with some songs sounding really catchy and groovy at times. Overall, this is good! 1.- And It Stoned Me = 8/10 2.- Moondance = 9/10 3.- Crazy Love = 7/10 4.- Caravan = 8/10 5.- Into the Mystic = 9/10 6.- Come Running = 7/10 7.- These Dreams of You = 6/10 8.- Brand New Day = 8/10 9.- Everyone = 6/10 10.- Glad Tidings = 8/10 FINAL SCORE: 7.6/10
I loved this album! It will definitely be in my rotation. Finding these gems was what I was looking for when starting this 1001 album journey!
sweet sound
This album holds a special place in my nostalgic heart. In 2009, My band at the time was on its first tour up and down the east coast. We had one night of driving after a few wild show nights on the way to Boston and we were passing New York City. As we passed the city skyline looking forward to playing it on our way back after the Boston gig we all somehow agreed to listen to a mix cd that started with “Into The Mystic”. That song playing with the New York skyline to our right as we headed north will forever be a powerful memory seared in my mind. It was our “Tiny Dancer” moment from Almost Famous, all the ups and downs of touring melted away in that moment. I had listened to this album several times before that but that was the first time I truly felt that song. Anyway this is what I think of when going back and revisiting this brilliant album. 4.5
This guy fucks! Just classic after classic here. For the style of music this is, it gets a 5. It isn't my favorite type of music, and certainly not something I'd listen to on the daily, but it puts a smile on my face. The title track is my favorite.
I don't know how to feel about this. The title song, Moondance, I was familiar with, but I never knew who sang it. Surprisingly the entire album is similar in tone to that, so I'll use that as an example to talk about the album. I don't know if he's being truly earnest with this music, but something about it sort of verges into corniness for me, the lounge-y swing of it all...in 1970 no less, when his contemporaries were getting heavy and psychedelic. And yet it has jazz flute, which I inexplicably love. So I'm torn. It's nice enough music I guess. Kind of chill with a steady energy, never doing anything too unexpected. Kids of safe feeling.
The best of his albums. You can stick your Astral Weeks up yer hole.
Liked this one for sure. Had two listens of it and there are no skips. Favorite was Into the Mystic, least was Everyone
This was perfectly nice, but the fact that I genuinely can’t think of any of the songs except Moondance says something
Great album
Un très bel et bon album. Plusieurs chansons juste parfaites : « Moondance », « Crazy Love », « These Dream Of You » et « Everyone ». Les arrangements sont vraiment beaux; j’ai surtout remarqué le piano. Il y a aussi de beaux back-vocal de choristes femmes sur certaines pistes. Un grand album que je ne connaissais pas assez comme un tout.
A perfect album. It's not my favorite Van album, but it's probably his best. This was a really good listen today.
A classic. 1970 was incremental in the evolution of music, and this album was certainly in everyone's ears. It could be found in just about every college dorm room, and, if you didn't own it, you knew it was readily available for listening at someone's room down the hall. Oh, a Saturday night party? This was there Many/most of these tunes were probably overplayed - they were both Top 40 hits and staples on "underground radio." I think this was an important album, though I can't think of anyone it influenced, at least off the top of my head. It probably belongs in this list. However, when it popped up as the next record to review, I paused the program; 3 weeks later, finally skipped through the songs. Hoping for better next time. ⭐⭐⭐ ________________________________ 🎧 LPs reviewed: 65 🎧 LPs left to review: 936 🎧 LPs I found great/relevant enough to be mandatory listens (5): 14 🎧 LPs I *might* include in my own list (4): 17 🎧 LPs I will certainly *not* include in mine (1-2):
I only knew Van Morrison by name. I couldn't remember his music. I was curious to see what the album would be like. R&B is definitely a genre that I like. I have difficulties with folk, but I always find jazz interesting. I liked the beginning of the album. I didn't find the rest of the album uninteresting either, but it sounded too much like folk to me. All in all, I probably won't listen to the album again. 3/5
This falls on my ears like a warm soft blanket made of golden sundrops. Van Morrison himself has fallen off the deep end in terms of sanity, but his music (in particular this album) is timeless. "Crazy Love" in particular is a fav.
Bored and didn't finish, a couple moments stand out but I didn't remember them. Sorry mr van
Good record overall. Sweet second voices that made me song along with them
I liked Van Morrison's voice and his homage to jazz/blues greats like Ray Charles, but the musical genre fusion and instrumentals really stood out the most. Overall, I enjoyed this!
This is album comes and goes for me. I didn’t get a really close listen but I would play this again.
I can't quite put my finger on it (though the album cover is a big contributing factor), but I find this dude creepy. Him singing about hooking up on moondance gives some serious pervert vibes to me. However, this album is infinitely better than Astral Weeks, I respect how much his sound and lyrics evolved from that garbage can. 4/5
In general this album is very soft. My primary complaint is that van Morrison doesn't have quite as much edge to him--a little too smooth. Some Ray Lamontagne vibes on this album, which is a good thing. This album's hits--Into the Mystic and Moondance--are a lot of fun. And the rest are pretty passable pleasant folk/soft rock. Rounding a 3.5 down just because that feels right.
This was surprisingly good. I think it does some interesting things to blend other sounds into traditional late 60s early 70s folk - but not enough to justify giving this album five stars.
The title track “Moondance” was a good choice, great jam. Other than that the album was fine.
& this whole time i thought van morrison was like kiss! the soul, the jazz, and the r&b influences. there are some parts of this album that lag, but the subtle irish influence is wonderful in this album. that + the fact that i just learned "brown-eyed girl" was supposed to be called "brown-skinned girl" has put me in fan territory.
Excellent. Favourite track is Moondance 4/5
Very good sound. But none of the songs are the type that I would listen to again. But I enjoyed it.
Nice listen but never found anything outstanding about van Morrison. Unique voice, some catchy tunes. He is such a middle of the road artist. No one hates him, and I don’t think he’s anyone’s favorite. If his song comes on that’s great if not I would never miss it. This album was nice to listen to. Enjoyed it but nothing new for me.
Some great songs! I notice crazy love inspired ed sheeran's song we found love
Perfectly fine
I prefer the ethereal, flowing, lost in time/space nature of Astral Weeks. This is a bit too slick for me. Still some great songs though.
Solid
please see my previous review of a Van Morrison album. thank you.
Soulful Van He the man Grumpy Stumpy Lovely song Not too long Solid four Wanting more
Veel minder vrije en experimentele folk dan op z'n andere sleutelwerk 'Astral Weeks'. Hij blijft op dit album dichterbij een pop-rock formule, aangevuld door hints aan jazz om het nog een stukje smoother te maken voor het brede publiek. Kantje één is dan ook echt boterzacht en immens elegant, en het is bijna moeilijk om niet in zijn flow mee te gaan. Het verval op de andere kant van de plat is dan ook wel echt gigantisch, en dan zie je dat de veilige pop-folk blauwdruk balanceert op het randje van uitermate prettig voor het oor én doodsaai. 7/10 Highlights: And It Stoned Me Moondance Into the Mystic
Van de album covers van Van Morrison (iig Astral Weeks en Moondance) word ik altijd een beetje ongemakkelijk. Wat voor mij vaak de reden is dat ik de LP laat liggen of de plaat niet aanzet. Gelukkig is er deze app om mijn ongemakken te overwinnen... En daardoor werd dit een hele taaie waar ik 3 luisterbeurten voor nodig had om echt te doorgronden wat ik hier van vind. En dat komt vooral omdat het schier onmogelijk is om Sir Van in een hokje te plaatsen. Het klinkt veels te Amerikaans om Noord-Iers te zijn. En waar Moondance inderdaad meer country invloeden kent ligt het er niet zo bovenop. Ergens voel ik ook dat dit een beetje de proto indiefolk is, waar ik zo'n liefhebber van ben. Dat komt met name door de focus op de akoestische gitaar (in Everyone zelf gecombineerd met fluit). Into the Mystic is echt fantastisch. Daar hebben mannen als Billy Bragg, Will Varley of Frank Turner denk ik ook goed naar geluisterd. Voor mij het hoogtepunt. Ik eindig dus met veel meer positiviteit dan verwacht, en de volgende keer neem ik Moondance mee uit de platenbak. Ik waardeer zijn muziek veel meer dan gedacht! 8/10 Highlights Caravan Into the Mystic Everyone Glad Tidings
Eh
1000/10
I liked this one a bit more than Astral Weeks. It's not really my style still but the jazzier and more involved production adds some interest for me.
I can hear the passion in the performance, but the songs just don’t do much for me other than take me back to a time I never existed in. There’s a nice innocence in it all. Sound wise there’s too much reverb on his voice sometimes, kinda this plate with too much echo. The bass is a bit too clunky and loud. Some songs go on too long without doing much of anything. Sometimes Van’s voice is grating.
Pretty shortly into And It Stoned Me I had a feeling that most of the album was going play out the same way, a decent enough folky tune Moondance got me by surprise, that's a nice jazzy number. It distinguishes itself nicely without being so outlandish that it sticks out like a sore thumb. It does kind of revert more back into the style of Ant It Stoned Me, but I also really enjoyed Into the Mystic. The saxophone adds a really nice additional layer to the folk style (which goes for the whole album, not just that song) Liked this more than I expected Highlights: Moondance, Into the Mystic
I enjoyed it but as I listened longer it got to be a little too much. His music is good but all very similar.
Van Morrison is definitely a vibe. One of those easy early morning 70's AM gold vibe. Good stuff!
There are some really great songs on here. Into the Mystic is such a beautiful tune and I’ve always been a big fan of Moondance too. However, in listening to a whole album of Van, I found myself growing tired of his voice. So while I like pretty much all the songs individually, I didn’t love them all collectively.
Pretty sure I already listened to this album during my 2024 one album a day challenge. Not interesting.
Maybe the best A side on any album ever.
1001 albums to have sex to. Favorite track: Caravan
The title track is probably the weakest song on this great album full of great songs. Glad Tidings is still one of the best album closers of all time. Classic Van.
can i just have 1 mo moon dance w u my lov
What a wonderful, but familiar mix Morrison has. Blues, jazz, folk,and something that one can't put a finger on. That is more true of his album Astral Weeks, but this album, although having familiar radio tunes, has a deeper meaning together than separate. 4/5
Love it
I bought his way back after loving Astral Weeks, and particularly Ballerina from that album. It's very different and way more accessible but still a beautiful album and seemingly so full of love. One of my regrets was seeing Van Morrison at Glastonbury and not really engaging with it, an unappreciative 16 year old who didn't know anything except Brown Eyed Girl!
Same old story here. The country folk parts are some of the worst sounds ever recorded and are further proof that this unimaginitive and annoying genre should be banned. The title track and few of the others are stray from country folk and are actually OK in places, but even when exploring other genres this album is still grating and uninteresting.
So many great tracks. Van the man!
Whimsical and gritty. Van might be a cunt IRL but this is still a great listen.
Never really got the hype around Van Morrison. His jazzy take on the singer-songwriter genre was always the main draw, but it's not really that jazzy? Am I missing something? Either way, it's not bad, it just doesn't live up to the hype. Key tracks: Moondance Caravan
First half of this album is a 5...back half a 3. 4 total with 3 all time tunes. Great stuff Van.
Did not like this at all. Boring, whiny.
Just joyous perfection. Kind of a contrast with his personality.
my mom always used to listen to a van morrison greatest hits CD in the car when i was a kid so i was overexposed to him and now his voice just pisses me off so much. as much as i dislike him, i can tolerate his music for the length of exactly one song…but an album is simply too much to bear.
it's so nothing. don't really care either way it's just kind of boring but not bad. except i do find his voice annoying
I’d heard “Moondance” the song in movies and on tv a bunch of times but I thought it was some sort of 40s Jazz singer, not the Brown Eyed Girl guy. He’s got more range than I thought. Overall the album was ok, into the Mystic the best song for me. One thing I noticed that was weird is that every song seems to start very abruptly, like they cut off the first 10 seconds. Anyway, 3 stars
4.5 This one is going to get some familiarity bias as it was always on in the house growing. Through this listen I knew pretty much every lyric and note, I just didn't realize it was all on this one album. In a critical sense, a few things bugged me, piano and bass were a bit busy and the bass was pretty high in the mix, enough so that it was distracting. But for me the songs were all great. Brand New Day is a stone cold soul banger and I think could have been a huge hit on the R&B charts if someone had covered it, (Aretha would have been great)
Album started off crazy strong, and the title track is definitely my favorite. Lots of silly songs on here, but the music is still solid. Not on the top of what I reach for, but still really good.
A whole lot of Van Morrison.
Great start but then fell a little flat by the end.
We played this in college non stop for 2 yrs, used to lie on the roof and watch the stars and listen to Van M. So I am biased..I know it by heart and it's long been engraved into my brain. Into the Mystic was one of my Dad's favorite songs, I always think of him when I hear it. Seeing him at the Beacon 4th row doing Astral weeks from start to finish changed my perception, which is why I give this a 4 and not a 5 even though it probably deserves the 5 : )
It doesn’t seem like some of these songs would live in the same space. I can feel Crazy Love deep in my chest and Moondance sounds like hope with a bit of joy. Into the Mystic, now that one, it makes me walk lighter. A fun, unexpected ride which touches deeper than expected on some songs.
What a difference a year makes. Moving on from the 9 minute three chord camps of Astral Weeks - this is more Motown (horns, courses and song structure) than Verve. Still contemplative Van Morrison took full advantage of his last shot to become and FN staple. Still three chords the voice does the talking and the songs would inform open mics for generations along with the previously released and ubiquitous Brown Eyed Girl. TBH kind of prefer the 9 minute camps but that just me. When duty called this man stepped up to the plate.
I've heard this before. Lots of great songs. Just short of a classic.
I've never been a fan of Van Morrison. His music is too mellow and just becomes background music. I found it incredibly difficult to keep my attention on the music while listening to this one. There was nothing that grabbed my attention. And Moondance is one of those over-played radio songs that I'm tired of hearing.
I suddenly grew a mustache, learned to tango and started calling everyone 'baby!'
Jest coś kojącego w tych melodiach. Muzyka jak promień słońca. Niektóre utwory są niesamowite, ale niestety jest też sporo przeciętnych. Mimo wszystko jest to mój rodzaj muzyki, strefa komfortu, którą czasem trudno opuścić. Brakuje tylko Brown Eyed Girl 7/10
Catchy feel good songs that still hold up.
pretty nice, very samey.
van Morrison I love you
Good, a few bangers
Was no bad a bit meh really
This was way better than expected.
Catchy choruses
Best one yet 7/10
Quite good. More of a daytime album despite the title track. While I feel this hindered my appreciation it still had an interesting mix, impressive arrangements, and decent variety of sound. I found the album inspiring with the use of swing time, waltz rhythms, horn section, and creative transitions.
Great album, folky and with excellent songwriting. I also like Van Morrison's nasal and instantly recognisable voice. Not my favourite Van Morrison album (that may be Poetic Champions Compose) but still a solid 4.
Muy folk para mi gusto pero buen vibe
Enduring music, beautiful lyrics, but no bangers or standouts.
3.5
Maybe a 3
yeah
Fantastic highlights. Consistently enjoyable.
Back to back bangers Ik vind dit oude mannen neuk muziek Maar wel mooi
I went to a van Morrison concert once. He sang a song then introduced his daughter. She sang an hour. This album is perfect though.
One of the best albums ever. :)
Sehr schön, verträumt, zeitlos Möchte ich nochmal hören Gefällt mir gut, viele Lieder klingen bissl gleich
Doesn't do anything revolutionary, but what it does it does really well. Might just be because it's old though.
Smooth with a great groove. A classic.
Surprisingly great! It’s chill and relaxed yet also happy and peppy which is hard to do. When i to the mystic came on i had a sudden *aha* moment! Say what you will, but the American Pie trilogy always holds a nostalgic place in my heart. During the end of American Wedding there is a sweet moment and a cover of this sing plays. I have always LOVED this song but never really knew it. Will listen to this album again!
Into the mystic is fire other than that not enough to get it to a 4
4.5
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.
The last time I listened to Van Morrison was nearly a year ago, with his lengthy live album It’s Too Late to Stop Now. I’ve got a lot of respect for the guy, but I don’t really frequent his music. But I thought the idea of getting to properly hear his studio material after so long would be enjoyable. This was the follow-up to Astral Weeks. I’ve never heard it obviously, but I was surprised to learn it didn’t do well commercially. This record was much better received, and I understand why. It’s a really solid folk rock album. And it’s given a slight edge in my mind over other folk albums of the era because of the jazz bits they brought into this. This is a context where jazz sounds really good, and it honestly wasn’t utilized enough. The touches of jazz are actually really well balanced with the regular folk and soul stuff. They don’t feel artificially forced into the music. And it makes for some of the biggest highlights in Morrison’s career. Three of these tracks are some of the most popular he’s ever released, with Moondance and Into the Mystic being particularly special. And of course, I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention his voice. It’s so iconic, and really fits these very warm and sultry songs. Only reason I’m not a huge fan of Crazy Love is because I believe it’s the only song not sung by him. Still, this is good stuff. Not perfect, but those saxophone bits are too cool for me to care. Rating: 7/10
Not my favourite because it’s too heavy compared eg to Astral Weeks, but still it’s full of great tunes
Excellent album, a classic that deserves it's spot on the T1001. It's loaded with good tunes and radio staples like "And It Stoned Me", "Moondance", "Crazy Love" which you may have heard at my wedding, "Caravan" & "Into The Mystic". All hits, impressive output for one album, Side One must have crushed it in 1970! The man could sing the phone book and make it sound good. It's impossible to deny the staying power of this album and the impact it had on radio since it's release. "Everyone" is the only weak track on the album.
Nice album. I've always loved the song Moondance and the rest of this album does not disappoint
The hits are still super pretty. I don’t love everything. But the good is great. And this band is outstanding.
This was a nice companion for my walk through a foggy, snowy Montreal day. The opening two tracks were phenomenal: And It Stoned Me and Moondance; but I lost some interest as the album progressed.
Great singer. Great songs. An Irish All-star.
the oinly redeming thing was the saxaphone
seminole
Pretty good but not as good as The Melodic Blue (deluxe)
Van Morrison is one of those supposed great ones, but I've never really understood his greatness completely. Perhaps it's yet one of those "you needed to be there when it happened" kind of things. This is not bad by any means, it just doesn't stand out that much to me. Very in the middle.
Really enjoyed this one. A mellow and just cozy album. From the start with "And it Stoned me" I was hooked. Honestly, this album is so front-loaded and the whole first side of the album is just filled with great songs like "Moondance" and "Into the Mystic". It drops the ball a bit on the second half which is clearly not as good as the first. If it was only the first side this would be a clear 5 but the second side is just not as good. After some contemplation I still I think this warrants a weak 5 since the first half is so strong and the album is kind of short. The second half is not bad just not at the same level as the first.
luv it
Anyone who rates this lower than 5 stars should be removed from the list.
I think Van Morrison is a jerk, but can’t deny this is a great album. Caravan and Into the Mystic are my favorites on this but everything is strong
What a Side A! MY GOD. He truly stacked the bangers here though Side B did still have its moments. A unique blend of Jazz, Soul, Rock, and Folk that just feels good. As much of a jerk as he is, Van Morrison is truly one of a kind and is great at what he does. My favorites were "Into the Mystic" and "Caravan" which will always make me think of The Last Waltz.
Nett, reicht aber nicht für 3.
Not my cup of tea.
3.9
Solid album. Love the low-key horns and the subtle guitar passages.
Lovely album from a great musician!
A lot of my expectations for these albums starts at a 3 tbh and this one mostly surpassed that. Really good vocals that elevated the whole project! 3 stars. Point five maybe.
Weird guy
I honestly think van morrison is one of the weirdest guys ever and like why does he make like blue eyed soul... hes a lad from northern ireland i wanna hear some pro IRA folk rock not some corny ass rnb from his plumber ass... anyways i do have a sweet spot for anyone who was in The Last Waltz but yea idk ive never been particularly impressed with this guy.
Surprising amount of variety on one album, from proper bluesy and country to jazzy and soulful. Very enjoyable album and lots to go back and discover on repeat listens. One standout was the mellow, yearning vibes of Crazy Love.
Comfy old pair of slippers.
Kind of cool. Kind of boring.
“Moondance” is my least favorite of Morrison’s songs. But that’s balanced off by how much I like “Into the Mystic.” The other tracks here are pretty solid.
Brilliant blend of folk, blues, jazz, and gospel.
Just based on Moondance and Into the Mystic, this is a 5* album. Some other quality songs, too. Glad Tidings is just happy, fun music, which I think I appreciate more as I get older.
Pleasent
I've always enjoyed Van Morrison's voice and was familiar with this album prior to listening for this review. The first 5 songs on this album are bangers and classics, no notes. The back half drops a little but still have that Van Morrison charm. I would give a 4.5 with half stars.
not my type of music, but fine to play in the background wouldn't listen again
If you don't like this album, you don't like Van Morrison. Which is fine, he's not for everybody. But this is his most consistent, best-sung, best-arranged, most accessible album, with four classic songs -- And It Stoned Me, Into the Mystic, Caravan, and of course Moondance. Moondance, the song, is overplayed and parodied, but the magic of it is that any ELSE that tries to play it sound like a parody. Sometimes Van's melodic sense gets repetitive, starting lines on high notes and winding down to the tonic far too often, but at least on this album he makes it work. "Astral Weeks", the album that came before this one, is quite a bit more spacey and folky and less soul-inflected... but if you like "Moondance" and want more, you can't go wrong with the 3 albums that came after. "His Band and the Street Choir" and "Tupelo Honey" especially, and "St. Dominic's Preview" as well (however, the two 10+ minute tracks on St. Dominic's, especially "Listen to the Lion", are not for me). Heartfelt, passionate pop-rock without equal in 1970.
Some crackers on this album- Moondance, Into the Mystic, Caravan, the rest is fairly decent. 3.75/5
Easy going, lovely listen with some bangers sprinkled through
I remember hearing Moondance years ago and thinking what a cool song it was. But then I was disappointed when I heard other Van Morrison tracks and didn't find that same jazzy sound. At this point I like that folky sound too, but still the album as a whole is so-so. I like "And It Stoned Me", and I kind of like Caravan. I'm surprised "Into The Mystic" is the top played track.
I think that if I'd grown up with this album, and could paint it more with the petina of nostalgia, I would like it more, because the songs I am familiar with I like quite a bit.
Is this what they call blue eyed soul - even if his eyes are brown per the album cover? While I like the first song, and ‘Everyone’ (I blame Wes Anderson), this mostly felt like music for people who think Otis Redding sounds too aggressive.
Van brought it on this one.
Van used to live on my old square in Bath (before my time) and was apparently seen staggering around wearing a hat. Never really been a big Van Man fan. Did enjoy this though although I don't actually like the Moondance song.
Moondance (the song) is so good dude why aren't there more songs on this album that sound like it. Favorite track: MOONDANCE!!! 3.5/5
Loved
Nice stuff. Always liked Van, just doesn't strike me in any way in particular
Van Morrison is another one of those artists I always feel I should like more than I ever actually do - I like him better in single songs than album length. A high 3 but still a 3, I think.
Close enough to perfect to get the 5 star bump. 4.5/5
Really good and easy listening
I wasn’t really feeling it when the first track started. I really thought this was going to be a dull, boring slog, but it quickly settled into a groove that surprised me. I ended up really enjoying the album more than I expected as a couple tracks were surprisingly soulful.
The title track is a good song, but otherwise it's fine for what it is. After a while all the songs blurred together without much to distinguish between them. It's listenable, but forgettable. Nothing challenging here, just average songs that roll on past without an impact. Definitely nothing I'd insist anyone needed to hear.
I was going to write a real review but someone said "A passable album does not a cunt redeem." and I think that's much funnier than anything I could say
To think this guy was already a hacky soft rock, and this was his sellout album. Sheesh, gag me
After I got his live album (which I did not like), I was waiting for this one. Much better. Starts solid, and then the title track, Moondance, which I've always loved. Continues on solid for the rest of the album. Some songs even remind me of other great songs. Crazy Love has a similar sound to a part of Ed Sheeran's Thinking Out Loud. Caravan and Glad Tidings both seem to call back to Van's own Brown Eyed Girl. Total turnaround from the last one I heard, love this one. Best song: Moondance
absolutely no skips
Somewhere between R&B, rock, and jazz - wonderful to listen to all the way through. I reach for this album every fall, so many great songs
Classic! Every song is a gem. Lots of good memories chilling with friends listening to this record in college
Incredible
вот это тот самый этап в развитии рока, который мне не нравится: такая спокойная ровная с уклоном в блюз музычка, и все эти завывания... и еще я дослушала только до середины альбома, потому что очень уж однообразно
3 because I’m a van Morrison fan - this isn’t his best but interesting enough to prompt a second listen
This one borders a bit on being background music, but there’s a nice energy to it that makes it listenable. Some of the songs elicit a comfortable vibe to them, which stops it from feeling boring. However, not much of this really stuck past that. There really wasn’t anything memorable for me here. It’s good, but not much past that. Good to hear more of Van Morrison past Brown-Eyed Girl, though. Favorite track: Into the Mystic Other hits: And It Stoned Me, Brand New Day, Caravan, These Dreams of You
Just an absolute classic from van the man
This is THE quintessential Van Morrison album. Top to bottom the album is fire. And it Stoned Me, Moondance, Crazy Love are jams. Into the Mystic is perfect! 1001 album worthy: Yes - 9/16
Almost a perfect album https://open.substack.com/pub/richcain/p/project-1001-moondance-by-van-morrison?r=4ztyq&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web&showWelcomeOnShare=true
Cute easy listening
Svårbedömd. Moondance är en jäkligt bra låt men det övriga? Inte dåligt men inte särskilt bra heller.
Ok.
Gear: DCA ÆON 2 Noire Artwork: 😐😐😐😐😐 Production (2013 Remaster): 🎧😘🤌 Music: 🌕🎶💃✨🌊🌌❤️🎷🎤🌙 Rating: 🌕🌕🌕🌕/5
Liked it now than I thought I would!
Van Morrison is a very unique voice and personality that comes through in his music. Passionate and unique, I love his live performances because you feel this even more than on his studio recordings(listen to Caravan from The Last Waltz live album). The first five songs on this album are five of the greatest classic rock era songs written, the subject matter, the performances, and the soul involved are really unmatched. The second half continues with beautifully written songs performed perfectly with tons of emotion, they just didn't get the radio attention the first half got, but deserved to. You really should hear these songs before you die, or else Ill kill you.
General impression: I respect it, don’t much enjoy it Detailed review: Is it bad that I didn’t realize he was Irish until I read about the album? I dunno. It’s good for what it is. He has an objectively interesting voice, and a clear understanding of the requirements of making good soulful music. I can imagine when I’m listening to it that it touches several people deeply, but it doesn’t really vibrate with my internals. Deeper thoughts (context): still curious about Astral Weeks though! Score: 2 Number of albums left to review: 936 Number of albums from the list I’d consider “must-listens”: 38 Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 27 (including this one)
Phenomenal album. Top 5 all time.
Do you like jass music? If you do then this album is for you. This album aint bad It just its not my type of music. Its lyrics is pretty good. The beat is decent, and the album is also decent. I would recommend this album its good .
overall a decent album. Its lyrics were simple but flowed well. and the music was alright. overall I think this is a ok album.
I like the jazz love the lyircs. i give it 4 out 5 because i vibe with it kinda hits the spot not bad mid. would put in my playlist.
have you ever heard an album that was okay, well that's what I think of the album moon dance I think that the lyrics of the album are okay i think that because it just sounds kinda lame it does kinda sound good but I think it could have been better. The singer was also kinda bad but I think he did good. I think this album moon dance was okay but I don't recommend listening to that album.
1st song- i rate like of 2/10 its not very good 2nd song- i rate like 1/10 its not that good 3rd aong-
Do you like jazz rock/alternative Pop? If so, this album is for you. In my opinion, though, I don't like this album. I like the beat and background music, but not the song lyrics. I recommend that you don't listen to this album. The only song that I like is the song called "And It Stoned Me;" Because I like how it sounds like Country music.
Love this album. Gems all the way through (except maybe Everyone). Poetic stories in a signature tone - although the falsetto on Crazy Love is also nice. Every instrument and background vocal serves a purpose, and they always seem to weave in and out of the songs in a way that's just right but also often feels subtle and effortless. To me, there's really nothing else to ask for here!
First of all, the album cover looks like a meme format which has me chuckling. This is a perfect Saturday morning album. Chill, and easy listening. Solid songwriting and some interesting instrumentation
One of my favorite albums of the 70s (definitely one of my personal favorites too). This was my first introduction into Van Morrison, and I believe it his best work. I think I got this album in 10th Grade, and admittedly, I wasn't ready for it. I didn't hate it or even dislike it, but I would skip through songs. However, the things that distracted me early on has become the things I love the most about this record. The blues and jazz influence are really what makes this record magical. Specifically, the horns. He uses them so cleverly and they kind of sneak up on you. You get a few in "And It Stoned Me," and you kind of think its just an accent piece, but no... He goes hard with brass. It defines the entire album. Which is what makes its so good. The brass isn't simply just an "accent" or an added effect, he uses them throughout. He changes the mood and emotion behind each song with the brass section, he even compliments lyrics with horns. (Into the Mystic.) It really is such a brilliant composition of music. It feels like the rest of the rock, blues, and folk world were doing one thing and then Van Morrison comes out of Belfast with this wild album that doesn't really sound like any of it but it fits perfectly within that world. Its no wonder, that Jerry Garcia would frequently cover Van Morrison. *It Stoned Me -this was the song that converted me. Its impossible to hate this song. Not only does this song kind of take you somewhere else, but I love how its kind of about fishing. As a teenager, this song made me feel cool about fishing with my dad. *Moondance -this was the song that turned me off! And then turned me back on. He just makes a full on jazz song right after a country song? Ballsy. This song started to come around for me after Robin Williams plays in his harmonica in that weird ass August Rush movie. *Crazy Love -such a good love song. Impossible to hate. This song is a mood that you can just love in. *Caravan -holy shit. This song. This song is a journey that makes you want to literally just join the caravan and go wherever this takes you. *Into the Mystic - this has got to me in the to 10 best songs of the 70s. I love this song. I'll never skip this one. I love how the horns sound like a fog horn when he sings that lyric. *Come Running -this one is fun. Its definitely the most "rock and roll" of the album. A necessary inclusion to keep this record round. *These Dreams of You -the freakin clarinet solo?? Get outta here. So rad. *Brand New Day -the best blues song on the album. The back up singers, the way he throw his voice. Brilliant. *Everyone -having lived in Northern Ireland, this one always makes me feel things. Peace for everyone. *Glad Tidings -perfect ending. Its so fun and upbeat. Ends on a banger.
This typically would be a 3 from me but because I am listening to this on Sunday morning it gets a 4. This is a Sunday morning album for sure
Great soft rock. A sound that chills you out. Perfect for a Sunday drive or sitting around the campfire.
Great, easy to listen to album. Some of Van’s best.
Very good.
Every. Song. Sounds. The Same. I felt like there was one track that was on repeat.
I love the seamless transitions from soul to jazz to pop. Van is Van. No one else sounds quite like him. Music to smoke fancy fags to.
I liked this. Moonfance fave song
i like moondance and all the other songs on here. not mind blowing tho. 7/10
Stabiles Album. Titelsong krass, muss ich mir bei Sonne anhören.
Decent, very folky with a lot of brass Not really my style but would listen to again if I was in the mood
Perfect from cover to cover. Great selection for Thanksgiving
5- Stars (13/15)
Don't really know what I expected from Van the man, but it wasn't this. Now I don't mean that in a bad way, it just wasn't what I thought it would be. Quite enjoyed it really. Definitely better than the last two offerings but not worth a 4. Think you can see where this is heading. 3
Music hey? Weird isn’t? Logic says I wouldn’t like Van Morrison. It’s all too close to so much I don’t usually enjoy (Jazz, Croon, Swing). But I love so much of his work. When it works for you it works for you, no need to overthink it. This whole album is great, but ‘Into the Mystic’, ‘Brand New Day’ and ‘Glad Tidings’ are different level of beautiful. The album artwork though would get zero stars! (I’ve seen him live. Exceptional voice, catalogue of songs and musicians with him. But my God he’s a miserable bugger. Never said a thing between songs, never thanked his band, didn’t acknowledge the crowd for coming. Nothing. Just went on, sung his heart out and fucked off 🤣)
It's always good to have a happy sounding album appear on this 1001 thing when people have made you feel sad. You learn a new thing every day, and this one being discovering 'Crazy Love' was originally one of his songs. My preconceptions of him was that he was just a B-Tech Irish version of that old tramp Bob Dylan, but no, he's better than that. So just for bringing a bit of joy to a shit day, Mr. VM, you are going to get a better score than I'd normally give.
Listened to it twice, back to back. The horns, the rhythm and the lyrics! One of my all time favorite songs is “Into the Mystic”. The idea that the foghorn is a warning of danger, but to the guy in the song it means that he is getting closer to home where his lover is. Just brilliant!
Enjoyable album, definitely a Van Morrison fan. Great lyrics and catchy tunes throughout.
Turn up your radio
Not bad. Chill background music.
Obviously a lot of people dislike Van Morrison. But it's hard to argue against this being an all-time classic record. It feels effortlessly good, each song one you're surely familiar with. Is it exciting? Not really, but who cares? It's beautiful music. Just chill out and enjoy.
Only knew the title song. Loved the album, I love all the folkloric influence.
Three stars
First Van Morrison album I ever heard and probably still my favourite although the more I listen to Astral Weeks I think it may take over the number one spot! Not a bad track on here and the great ones are truly great. He may be a miserable old duffer who hates the world and everyone in it but boy can he write (and sing) a tune.
a wide hodgepodge of different songs on this one, everything from easy listening acoustic songs to peppy pop tunes. there's a lot of songs that are made for you to sing along to. i don't know, something about happy soft rock from this decade is just a treat all the way through. i always seem to fall in love with the songwriting... it's a good listen and it'll put a smile on your face when you're down. my favorite track also features in the sopranos.
I can’t for the life of me figure out how this guy had such a successful career beyond his days in Them. His voice is terrible! This is like boomer Dave Matthews. It’s just music old people have sex in tents to.
very good
Van's a tosser, sure, but I actually really like this - good memories of listening to his best of as a kid, and it remains extremely good background jazz.
I’ve forgotten how long ago it was that I last listened to this completely, but almost all the songs are ingrained in my head. The first of these albums that I’ve listened to straight through twice. I would give it 5, but I’m docking a point for Van being a douche.
How much of this rating is because it's a good album, and how much is based on the fact that I've grown up in a house with van Morrison played fairly regularly? We may never know. Either way, pop needs more flute and harpsichord in it. Good job, VM.
also not really for me, well made though
It's a good listen. A little on the soft side for me. It feels like you could play this in almost any situation, and people wouldn't leave or be annoyed.
Honestly didn't notice I was listening to it until it was over
alright, not for me got bored
Nice folky rock fabulous lyrics and saxophone goodness. Loses a star because a man in a record store in a random Norwegian town told me he wasn't a nice bloke when he met him
He's been making some of the world's best music for nearly 60 years. Not great in concert, and terrible in interviews, but he's Van Morrison. He gets to do what he wants.
There are those few albums that are masterworks, full of solid songs start to finish, albums that only seem to get better as they move along with us through time. This isn’t a trick, where I now say “…but this isn’t one of those albums”, because this IS one of those albums, at least for me.
How can this be any less than a 5? And it stoned me takes me right back to being a teenager myself and is one of my all time favourites. Almost a perfect album start to finish that I have revisited at every stage in my life.
Love it.
3.5★. Very enjoyable (though a bit same-y) and nothing more.
Highlights: moondance (did not know it was Morrison's). This was ok, smooth dad rock, 2*
I know many of these songs from bootleg Counting Crows live tracks! The deluxe version of this is overstuffed. I really enjoyed the studio feel of it - another thing the CC took away from VM. The reprises confused me; it felt like the album went on a long time or I'd accidentally set it to shuffle and repeat.
Folky, jazzy, good stuff
1. ztoned - 1.5 2. moondance - 3 3. crazy love - 1.5 4. caravan - 1 5. myztic - 1.5 6. running - 1 7. dreamz - 1 8. day - 2 9. everyone - 1 10. glad - 1.5
Not bad. Enjoyable in the first half.
5a. Alla låtar är bra, rösten är bra, musiken är bra, arrangemanget. Allt är bra.
Jag diggar Vans sound. Lyssnat en del på honom under åren. Det är en behaglig lyssning.
En av få skivor med Van som jag lyssnat på sedan tidigare, eftersom den är så jäkla bra. Inte riktigt en femma, men snudd på. Hög kvalitet rakt igenom.
I still can't decide if this album is country or jazz or blues :D It's nice and mellow, soft and emotive. It's again another one for me where I like the soundtrack more than the vocals. I can't stop picturing what this album would be like with a different singer? It's a lower rating for me because of that. Someone with a deeper voice that isn't so focused on doing long shouted sillables would've probably hit better with the mellow melody and the jazzy bits of the song.
How can a man so bitter and jaded make music that brings me so much joy?
Pretty good music. I hate that Van Morrison is such a piece of shit. But there are some real undeniable hits here.
Not a very long album but a very pleasant listen with some nice smooth tracks
This album sounds like how saw dust would sing... and I love it
A soulful and solid album.
Some beautiful songs sang by a complete loon.
It's good, deserve to be here but not as interesting personally
Moondance is a great song and part of a great album. Van Morrison's distinctive voice really brings this album together. Or something pretentious. I like it.
I really really liked the album. It's not a no skipper which stops it from being a 5 star but boy is it good. It's Just overall a lot of fun. "Glad Tidings" a great closer. Favorite Songs: "Moondance" , "Crazy Love" , "Caravan" , "Come Running" , "These Dreams of You" , "Brand New Day" , "Glad Tidings"
liked songs: Moondance (if I have to pick one) I was sort of just waiting for it to be over. I'm not a huge fan of Van Morrison's voice or his style of music. 2
Eh, it’s nice as background music; Moondancer is a cool song. 38 minutes
Moondance is a great song, the rest is pretty good. 3.5 stars.
Oh it's wonderful. On paper these are simple songs but they managed to make them more interesting with all the jazz additions. Also, usually I don't dive too deep into the lyrics but these have been great, especially with the uplifting message on Brand New Day and Crazy Love. I'm going to be coming back to this and I'll be on a lookout for a vinyl copy
Everyone's favourite Grumpy Old Bastard, heard here as a younger, more fresh-faced, curmudgeon. This is a very pleasant and listenable album, filled with jaunty and upbeat tunes about love and not having love and all that sort of malarkey. The title track is my standout. That used to be my and my ex's song... sigh... I'm over it, I'm over it, I'm fine
Had a very misconceived notion that this would be stadium rock type music.
5/5 - Listened to this so many times and it's timeless
Very nice album. Never been a huge fan of VM but I think I could listen to this album all day. Fave Tracks: Moondance, Caravan 4.3/5
some classics, not bad.
A great vibe that really encapsulates the 70s country indie merge. Although some songs all kinda sound similar they blend really well for a full listening experience.
A great showcase of smooth piano work and great vocals
Rich & warm, a true delight of an album. Very nice to start this journey with a staple in my record collection. 'And it stoned me' is stunning in its simplicity, 'Moondance' is a shimmering little ditty. I have long earmarked 'Into The Mystic' as a potential first dance song. 'Crazy Love' and 'Caravan' sort of blend into one another and cause the album to lull a little bit through the middle. Things pick up again with 'These dreams of You' and the sweet closer 'Glad Tidings' leaves nothing but fond memories of revisiting this bonafide classic. Top 3: 1. Into The Mystic 2. These Dreams Of You 3. Brand New Day Bottom 1: 1. Come Running Overall score: 8.3/10
I don't listen to Van Morrison anywhere near enough. This is velvety smooth and just glorious. Adding this to my "liked albums" on Spotify.
I've always known Van Morrison's music growing up, they play them all the time on the radio; I've never known of a time when I "first" listened to Brown Eyed Girl, it was always there, so I gave his music for granted, and boy was I in for a susprise. Turns out he is an excellent, talented, and prolific musician. He writes his songs and makes his albums thematically and tonally cohesive. He might be a bellend as the legend goes, but he takes his music seriously. This would be a 4 out of 5 stars in my opinion, but I'm giving it 5 stars because I discovered this living legend is still making music in 2024, and yes, he's gotten into taking a stand against the establishment, and I absolutely respect that.
I wasn't sure about this AT ALL the first time I listened. But on the second listen I started to really enjoy it.
A five of five!
Yes
There are some top tier songs like Into the Mystic and Moondance, but overall, the album is pretty meh for me.
Great album - van’s the man! Caravan is a lot tamer in studio, but there’s still a fantastic six song stretch from the And It Stoned Me to Into the Mystic.
Damn near perfect
Good album. Enjoyed the vibe
Good album, Van Morrison has a unique voice that shines through every song in a distinct way
Simply a masterpiece. Sometimes great music leaves not much room for commentary. Van Morrison has made several albums like this.
It's fun but I don't get a whole lot out of it. While I don't think there are any bad songs here, I also don't think there are any fantastic 10/10 songs here. Favorites were were Moondance, Into the Mystic, and These Dreams of You
This is pleasant to listen to for its whole runtime. Not too much to say about it. I can now say I know more than two Van Morrison songs. I think the first half of the album was better than the second half overall. Would gladly revisit in the future. Favorite songs were And It Stoned Me, Moondance, Caravan, and Glad Tidings.
This is a nice album and I have to say that the production is fantastic. That said the songs themselves didn't really do much for me. It's the sort of music that you use as background noise at a dinner party.
Favorite Track: Caravan
first listen it's good
Bright, easy music. I’m not a big fan of jazzy, bluesy music, but I think he handles himself well lyrically and vocally. There are moments where the horns have an schmaltzy, almost variety show sort of quality. But it's also an interesting blend of old and modern music.
I liked Caravan and Come Running. Most of the songs felt a little too long, maybe a little samey. But overall I enjoyed it more than I expected. 2 1/2 stars.
One of those albums that you just can't put down. Side A is all killer. Side B is great. Such a warm sounding album.
4.5
Easy (10) ★★★★★
Don't care too much for the title track, but the rest is excellent. 5 stars
Terrific album with numerous highlights. Into the Mystic is awesome.5 stars
Sleek, soulful and sometimes even snazzy like on the snazz-jazz title track which is a shoe-in for top 10 songs that use the word ‘fantabulous’. Caravan is great. Come Running is great. Into The Mystic a bit overrated. Album gets more rag tag towards the end. Everyone a bit repetitious and out of place stab at baroque pop. 3.5 stars.
- Very tempted to give this 3 stars, because Van Morrison often feels like a one-trick pony with some of these songs. But damn...that trick is pretty engrossing. I can see how getting high and just vibing with this would be unbelievably relaxing. - "Crazy Love" is essentially perfect. A couple of other tracks ("And It Stoned Me", "These Dreams of You") are almost just as fantastic. - Enjoy "Moondance", though the vibe of this song is almost old-fashioned big band jazz in comparison to everything else. - Do not enjoy the last two tracks, especially "Everyone." Too fast and too busy.
Another classic 70’s chill album. Released in ‘70, this album helped set the tone and style for the decade. I remember so many from this on frequent radio rotation throughout my childhood. A strong *4 plus rounding up for influence and impact. 4.5/5
I was never really that much of a Van fan outside of his collaborations with The Chieftains and his contributions to the multi-artist Long Black Veil project. And growing up he was not really a go-to for me. But the chill timeless nature of this album can’t be denied. The first five tracks alone still survive this many years later. The backend, while still good, doesn’t have quite the punch. But…an overall peaceful easy feeling.
Good timing on this one, a great album for a crisp fall walk to work. Historically I’ve never been known to throw a Van album on the stereo, but this has some of his best and Into the Mystic has always been one of my faves. A million bonus points for no Brown Eyed Girl also.
Time to rock….Gary, grab your flute! I don’t know if their flautist is named Gary but that sounds like the name of someone who plays the flute. All flutes aside, there is some mighty fine song writing on this album along with nice musicianship. 3.5 but rounding down because my wife asked if this “is the grocery store shopping mix” whilst listening to this in the car.
Classic chill vibes album. Starts to drag a bit towards the end but to Van's credit he doesn't prolong it too much... 39 minutes in and out. I respect that. 4/5
Awesome album!! Listened to it twice and a few songs 3 times!
The music's ok, somehow each track is different but also somehow similar. Morrison's singing bothers me. It's somehow similar on each track. Didn't care for the lyrics as they were nothing outstanding. Don't get the hype.
Lots of people seem to be rating this based on now-80yo Morrison's political views, which I find a bit strange. The album itself is .. fine? The recording/production isn't great, but otherwise it's listenable.
I had heard this album in full beforr, but not in a long long time. It was great to get to experience it again with fresh ears. Van Morrisson is a master of his craft. His songwriting speakd to a part of the human experience that everyone has a connection with. His songs are light yet compelling, and his voice punctuates at the right time. Overall- I really enjoyed it and will definitely put it on again. Id say 4.5/5 but I think it clinches the 5 spot- I can see this album having a big influence on a lot of people
No bad songs 5/5
læk
Take the greatest white, soiul voice that has ever exist. Write catchy yet timeless tunes. Stir. Bake. The result is Moondance.
Loved this. It was comfortable like an old woollen sweater.
Yeah, it’s pretty good. I also recommend Coca-Cola and Steven Spielberg movies.
Ok
Play that one song
4/5. A jazz and pop album that Morrison balances expertly. Very poetic yet relatable and down to earth. The first half of the album has no bad songs and so beautiful. The second half does drop in quality as well. Great radio songs but it feels like there is missing emotion that was present earlier on. One of Morrison's main draws that not only does he write well but it's a voice that can only sing his songs. Some songs on here do not warrant his voice, anyone can sing them and they would provide the same feeling. To be fair, it's no bad songs but upon multiple listens, there are definitely some skips. Best Song: And It Stoned Me, Moondance, Caravan
Terrific classic record, many easy to listen to tracks that I can enjoy time-after-time.
Most of the mark I gave this is for the title track, which has long been a favourite of mine and which I think is among a very small number of perfect songs. This is a pleasant album to listen to, it feels full of light and makes for smiles. And now I will go back and put the song Moondance on repeat and sing my lungs out for a while.
5 stars, a masterpiece. And Van Morrison is a treasure.
Good sort of adventure music, relaxing
surprisingly fun
Boring, i wanted to skip every song, and I did. Moondance the song is nice, but there is waaay too much flute in my left ear. Nnn
Não chega a ser brilhante, mas de fato é cativante. Clima agradável para contemplar um luar, só que sem chegar a sair dançando.
These dreams of you stoned me into the mystic on a brand new day, so I had to do a crazy love moondance.