It's Too Late to Stop Now

This album sucks!!!!! Van morrrisin more like van BORRISON,,!!!!! bitch

It seems truly impossible that this could be one of the 1001 most important albums of all time.

I have precisely no interest in this, whatsoever. Even if it wasn't a double album (boo!) of live tracks (double boo!) I would have zero interest in it. Van Morrison is of utterly no consequence to me, and I genuinely find it hard to believe that he is to anyone else, either.

I am very glad to know this exists. Always a fan of Van's performance of "Caravan" at the Last Waltz alongside the Band, I am surprised I never sought out a full live album of his. And too because I really needed this evidence of Van's continued brilliance even after Astral Weeks and through his more pop-inclined, single-focused 1970s. This is an opus. I didn't get to give a deep listen last night. But I had on in the background while hosting a few friends and was truly saddened when the end was reached. A good time was had by all and I look forward to revisiting many, many times. This is immediately my 2nd favorite Van album and up there for best live albums.

For a live album from the 70s, this was recorded remarkably well. The band is tight and the arrangements are solid. I appreciated the fact that while there was a certain looseness to the songs, they were still clearly meant to be largely played as written. There wasn't excessive noodling or extended improvisational sections which does plague live albums of this era. The music itself was nice and bluesy with some soul/jazz elements. Because of its live format, Van Morrison was unable to lean into some of his more experimental stuff and the songs come off as very straightforward. While enjoyable, this album was too long as well. However, due to the tightness of the music I feel like this is one of the best live albums of the 70s.

Ooh, double live album? Seems like a recipe for disaster to me, especially with how disappointed I’ve been with previous Van Morrison albums on here. But wait, Jazzy, Funky, Soulful. Well recorded, tightly performed and with extra spirit and life. A little shorter (trim the covers) and that’s a 5.

There is no version of "my life" that *MUST* include this double live album.

This is too long. The band are tight, but I find VMs voice a bit monotonous after a while: not enough variety in his delivery. Well- rehearsed, but a little too obvious for me. The clapping along though Gloria just made me think of those terrible tv 'talent' shows. You know from one song to the next where this is going. One of those albums that is technically great but I found it a bit lacking in actual soul.

Wow, totally in agreement with Charlie on this one! A great find. Van Morrison is in top form for this album which is RARE, as so much of his discography seems like a mixed bag, never quite reaching the heights of what you know he’s capable of. Here it’s him in top form, and his band is INSANELY tight! It just works! He’s got that one note he loves to wail on over and over, but when he does, I’m like yeah, that’s why I like Van Morrison. Should have known that he would be terrific live, as Astral Weeks sounds like it was essentially a lot of pseudo-live compositions. I’m a big fan of this sound. I will definitely keep it around. 5/5

On one listen this felt like a clear 4. It's regarded as one of the greatest live albums of all time and I agree it's very good. But is it worth a 5? Well, I had it on all weekend and it definitely gets better with multiple listens. Van Morrison is clearly enjoying himself on stage and at times you can hear how much the audience is too. Side one take a bit to build because the performer-audience connection is less audible. Morrison and his band (until the songs end) still bring it on Warm Love and Into the Mystic and you can hear the audience energy more on These Dreams of You (piano really starts to shine) and you can hear the band and Morrison improvise too. But the covers really shine and keep taking the performance to another level. Morrison and the band really lean in on the Ray Charles cover I Believe to My Soul as side one ends and then they are electric on Help Me (song two of side two). But it’s as the album pivots from side two to three that the album absolutely takes off, as they transition from the incredible Muddy Waters and Sam Cooke covers (I Just Want to Make Love to You and Bring in on Home To Me) and Domino right before. The energy grabs you and you can feel like you're there. And Morrison turns into the greatest showman with a band that matches. The sax and faux siren on Take Your Hand out of My Pocket, the tender piano and strings and passionate singing on St. Dominic’s Preview and Listen to the Lion (minus those silly accents). And then side four blows the roof off. It sounds like all of it was encore, but man oh man. The crowd goes wild for the two Them hits (Here Comes the Night and G-L-O-R-I-A) and rightly so – Morrison owns the stage at this point, yowling, prowling, and improvising. But his vocal play and his and the band’s connection with the audience on Caravan and Cyprus Avenue, wow. They’re just eating out of the palm of his/their hand as he does call and answer, instrument solos, or stops and starts. The repeated “so you know it’s got soul” in Caravan, the fan call out of “turn it on” and sultry Morrison reply of “it’s turned on already” on Cyprus Avenue before he launches into “it’s too late to stop now”. It makes you wish you were there. So all that to say, yeah, it’s worth a 5.

Van Morrison is blessed with the kind of voice whereby he could sing the phone book and give it the beauty and authenticity of a hymn. This, however, is not the phone book. And it is a long way from being it. Close your eyes and you are there. The classics are here and , as said, he can make the not so classic sound classic. A journalist once said there are two types of people. Those that like Van Morrison and those that have met Van Morrison. Quite. Hence why you have to close your eyes to let his music take you to a different plane because, by all accounts, it is so superior to the man himself.

I like live albums, especially if they're done well and the songs are as good or better than the original studio versions. I hadn't heard this album before and though I'm familiar with a lot of Van's work, this was a pleasant way to listen to songs from throughout his career up until then. He brings new life and energy to most of the songs and generally it's a solid collection. He does a respectable job with the covers, but it runs a bit longer than it needs to be. I listened to this while doing other things, so I wasn't super focused on the music and it was a great soundtrack to my day. I'm not sure this would be the ideal "sit down and listen intensely" record, I may get a little drowsy after a while, but overall it was fine.

thought it was a 70s cop show, then baby making music. Van doesn't know what he's doing. Little bitch.

In my humble opinion, the best way to judge the greatness of a musician is how they perform live. No studio editing, no best take. Just one shot to leave it all out there. And this album is the best way to show someone that Van Morrison is an incredible musician and performer. Leave alone the songs, I love his interaction with the audience, and credits to is performing musicians. One of the best live pieces of music I think I've ever heard

This 1001 album journey is the first time I’ve really listened to Van Morrison and I have to say, his stuff from this era is some of my favorite music of all time.

I fully expected to find this double live album a chore, having been so so on Morrison's other albums on the list but was thrilled at how energetic and enjoyable this record turned out to be. Morrison is charismatic and lively and in fine voice and the soul band, notably horns and string, are amazing. Clearly, Van decided that if he was to take a soul band on tour he'd take advantage and sing some soul covers and who can blame him when it sounds this good? His own compositions are excellent, too, and I may need to dig further into his back catalogue. Perhaps that was the missing piece of the puzzle? Move him out of the studio and onto the stage and Morrison comes to life with this vivid, powerhouse of a performance.

I'm normally against double albums, and there is certainly a question raised about a live album (especially if you can cherry pick your own tracks and your favorite covers). Still, this is a pretty amazing backstory and the fact that it is reported that Moondance was thrown off this release list because there was one wrong note played. It is very cool to think that every night of the tour was a different riff on these tracks. Van Morrison is definitely in hit soulful passionate prime and it shows here. There are lots of home runs here. Great album. Its a really powerful set.

Say what you want about the man, he's said some stupid things in the past few years and there are too many stories about what a dick he is to have any serious doubts as to whether or not they're true (some of the are actually so hilarious that I'd be disappointed if they weren't) but that being said this is Van at the height of his powers with an amazing backing band. Just incredible, I wish I could have been there but since I wasn't I'm glad someone recorded these shows, this is about as it gets.

I have said before that I had never been a huge fan of Van Morrison, but this sort of thing might change my mind. If you can keep me engaged in a 90-minute live album, you've got me. These were stellar performances with a band that absolutely rocked. The songs were jazzy and rockin' and bluesy all the way through. Gotta give it up for this one.

Before today I was only familiar with Van Morrison's popular songs (Brown Eyed Girl, Moondance), so I looked forward to getting to listen to more of his catalog. I don't know why I never delved any further into his stuff, because I really like the songs I know. This is the definition of a perfect live record. The band (Caledonia Soul Orchestra) is super tight, and you would swear that they had been playing with Van for years. The chemistry between them all was amazing. This album has no overdubs at all on it. Moondance was supposed to be on this record, but there was 1 bad guitar note on the recording, so Van threw it out. He wanted perfection for his live album, and that is what he got! Van dips his toes in folk, blues, soul, and jazz on this record, and is masterful at each! Overall, an epic live album. This is how a live album should be! Everything is perfect. The only critique I could make is that it kind of overstays its welcome with the last two songs (which account for almost 20 mins of run time between them). Both songs consist mostly of increasing volume and tempo, then lulls again while the band canoodles around. It just made the end of the album fall flat for me. I will, however, absolutely listen again!! Favourite songs: Domino, Gloria, Help Me, Ain't Nothin' You Can Do, I've Been Working, These Dreams of You, I Believe to My Soul, Saint Dominic's Preview, Bring It On Home To Me, Here Comes The Night Least favourite songs: Cyprus Avenue, Caravan 5/5

OK, let's get one thing straight from the start: for a live album recorded in the mid-seventies, the sound of this double-LP is just INCREDIBLE, actually twice better than most of the studio versions of those songs. You can hear the tiniest details and flourishes here, from each guitar lick, each piano embellishments, each brass blast, and each layering of that wonderful string section. And minus one specific moment (more on that later), the performance is absolutely pitch-perfect. If only for this, I can see why Van Morrison die-hard fans would want to include *It's Too Late To Stop Now (vol 1)* in this list. The tracklist is a huge selling point as well. It mostly draws from key studio albums *Moondance*, *Saint Dominic's Preview* and *His Band And The Street Choirs*, plus two pivotal Them staple songs (including a version of the legendary "Gloria" exploring some surprising *funky* territories), not to mention a handful of rhythm'n blues covers dear to VM's heart. To be honest, I think I would have enjoyed the album more if the covers had been left on the cutting room's floor. Van Morrison can be a wonderful performer, but his music is already a little too derivative and "by the book" on a harmonic level sometimes--especially through the man's very similar vocal lines from one track to the next--and those covers only enhance that minor flaw... Worse, more often than not, they are not the punchier cuts here anyway, and they take away some much needed energy before you reach the stellar last leg of this record (more on that later as well). The length of vinyl records and VM's personal tastes required to add those tracks that I consider as "filler", I imagine. And since it was impossible to sum up the project in one single LP, this is the choice that was made here. Makes sense on a subjective level, I guess. It's just that my own subjectivity would have favored a different choice. 'Vol 1' is added to the title, by the way... Under that light, I'm pretty sure other selections of terrific live performances of omitted songs in VM's repertoire could have been added instead. But that boat has sailed a long time ago now... Another point of contention: a couple of songs for the much maligned *Hardnose The Highway* could have been left aside as well, especially the very hackneyed "Warm Love", where, inexplicably, Van Morrison's vocal performance is even *worse* than on the studio version. It's like he's chopping wood instead of singing. Very 'forced' and awkward. Normally, one single bad moment for an album this length shouldn't really influence my overall appreciation of it... But since it's the second track we're talking about here (and the first Van Morrison original song to appear), that dud *does* take its toll, I would lie if I didn't say so. The rest is wonderful, fortunately. I could take so many examples of the many memorable moments in this record, but I'm just gonna mention a couple of them found at the end of the fourth side, like the meditative conclusion of "Listen To The Lion", which keeps you on your toes until the very last second, or the fantastic rendition of *Moondance*'s "Caravan", which builds up to a terrific finish. And when the record ends its long run with a very adventurous version of *Astral Weeks*'s "Cyprus Avenue", it really feels like you've made an incredible journey into Van Morrison's universe. A little like Thin Lizzy's *Live And Dangerous*, this album could serve as a kind of "best of", even if essential tracks are missing from it ("Brown-Eyed Girl", "Jackie Wilson Said"...). And yet it's still one cohesive thing. The best of both worlds, really. So I will surely add this record to my own list, right? Well... It might come off as a surprise after what I've just said, but I'm not so sure I will. First there are the little flaws I have spotted up there, adding to the album's perceived length. And then, there's that nagging doubt in my mind that using a slot for this live album sort of wastes an opportunity to praise other artists. As stellar as the sound and most of the performances are on *It's Too Late To Stop Now*, it feels like welcoming it in my list already including *Astral Weeks*, *Moondance*, and also probably *Saint Dominic's Preview*, is overkill to an extent. Yes, the renditions of the important songs from these albums are probably all better than their studio counterparts. Yet do we need to use an extra slot for the *same songs*? Besides, one specific moment in this album perfectly encapsulates another sort of hesitation I have here. It's towards the end of "Caravan"... At that point, just as the rest of the band jams hard, the string section surges and performs one of the most beautiful orchestral arrangements in a record already filled to the brim with the latter. Van Morrison harmonizes with the strings for a few seconds. This truly feels like music heaven at this point. The whole is gorgeous, cinematic, evocative, what have you... But then, out of the blue, and *as the orchestral arrangements are not over yet*, the Irish singer introduces the names of each string player, before then naming everyone else in the band. And I have to say, my heart broke a little when I suddenly heard that. I was truly entranced before, I didn't care I was listening to a live version and I just wanted to immerse in the music. But Van Morrison ruined that a little for me. Of course, if you were there in the audience that night, it makes total sense that every player's name should be mentioned just as the show nearly reaches its end. But it's just not how I envision the experience of listening to albums at home. I don't need to be reminded that someone is playing. I need the playing to take me to another world. And under that light, I'm not so sure I need this record in my list. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad I had the opportunity to listen to it, and I will probably listen to it again in the future. But even if it were the greatest live record of all time (some say it is), it feels like it's not the most convenient and natural entry point into Van Morrison's body of work. It's "too much" in a way. And I'm not only talking about the album's length here. Because in some other sense, it's also "not enough". Without the context given by the studio albums, it's sort of hard to understand why those live performances are so important for Van Morrison's fans. So, let's say that as of now, I'd rather err on the side of caution, and wait to see if really I feel the urge to return to this live album one day. After all, it's never too late to open your heart to a pivotal artist such as Van Morrison. You just need a little time sometimes, that's all. 3.5/5 for the purposes of this list of essential albums, rounded up to 4. 8.5/10 for more general purposes (5 + 8.5) Number of albums left to review: 12 (plus the 80-ish extra LPs listed on this app, included because different past versions of the book have mentioned albums that have since been dropped in subsequent editions) Number of albums from the list I find relevant enough to be mandatory listens: 425 Albums from the list I *might* include in mine later on: 254 (including this one) Albums from the list I won't include in mine: 313

Un dels grans discos en directe dels '70. Van Morrison en el seu millor moment creatiu (que no personal), després d'una sèrie d'àlbums imprescindibles, recluta una banda de primeríssim nivell amb músics clàssics, de jazz i de rock i s'embarca en una sèrie de concerts que el contemplen en la cúspide de la seva carrera. Versions de clàssics del soul i r&b, i poderoses lectures d'alguns dels seus millors moments en solitari i Them (tot i que no recull l'execució de 'Brown-Eyed Girl')

First off, this is the third of three Van Morrison albums on the list and none of them are named Veedon Fleece. I just feel that should be noted. Next, this is the second appearance of his song Caravan on the list and I must once again implore you to check out the live version of that song from The Band’s Last Waltz film, so you can see Van Morrison in his coked-out, grandma pantsuit glory. In fact, I’ll make it easy for you, here’s a link: https://youtu.be/44wDwMQVqCc?si=npfDHusbnqzM7Wn3 Third, let’s talk about the phrase “electric light”, because it comes up in “Caravan” and also in the first track, “Ain’t Nothin’ You Can Do”. It’s kind of an odd thing to say, specifying that something is an *electric* light (eg: “Switch on your electric light” from Caravan). It made me realize that Van Morrison, now almost 80, might have grown up without electricity, or at least in an environment where electricity was uncommon enough that he feels the need to differentiate “electric light” from other types of light. Nothing to be ashamed about - it’s possible since parts of Northern Ireland did not have electricity until the 1960’s - just interesting to think that we are not far off from a world where having electricity wasn’t a certainty. Fourth, I think Van Morrison is fucking hilarious. Not that I think he is being intentionally funny, but his vocal mannerisms, the way he chooses to emphasize certain words and the way he ramps the volume of his voice up and down are all very funny to me. When he says “Switch on your electric light-ah”, it will never not make me laugh or when he starts scatting, then abruptly stops and moves on to a different vocal delivery style all together - it’s hilarious. My favorite Van Morrison-ism is when he’s soulfully talk-singing at a normal volume and then just yells something out - like “TURN IT UP!” in the version of Caravan here. The man is a maniac with his vocal delivery and I can’t get enough of it. My fifth and final point will serve as my official review of the record. The band is exceptionally tight here and the inclusion of horns and string section breathes new life into some of these songs, which makes it a really interesting live document. In fact, the string section solo in the middle of Caravan is legitimately beautiful instrumental break. At times, though, this record feels a bit like an old time Vegas revue and I found myself losing interest during most of the traditional blues based songs. It’s when Van Morrison and the band get soulful and funky that this record, whose overly long title escapes me, really shines.

Van Morrison - It’s Too Late to Stop Now Album Review There’s a fine line between capturing an artist in their raw, untamed glory and just throwing an entire concert at the listener with zero restraint. It’s Too Late to Stop Now stomps right over that line and keeps on going for what feels like an eternity. There’s no doubt Van Morrison’s band is on fire here—the brass section, in particular, is the real star of the show, blasting through the arrangements with energy and precision that keeps things lively even when Morrison himself starts to wear thin. But let’s be honest: this album is way too long. It’s the musical equivalent of being cornered by a guy in a pub who won’t stop telling you about the time he really got into transcendental meditation. A tight, single-disc live album could have been a triumph; instead, we get a bloated, self-indulgent sprawl that feels like a test of endurance. And then there’s Van. His voice, as always, is unique, but in this setting, it’s an all-you-can-eat buffet of his most extra tendencies. He sounds like he’s permanently halfway through eating a sandwich but still trying to belt out a soulful tune, gulping down syllables in between swigs of whatever keeps him going. Sure, it works for a few songs—his wild, impassioned delivery has always been his trademark—but over nearly two hours of growling, wailing, and borderline incomprehensible muttering, it becomes a lot. Tracks like Caravan and Domino bring undeniable energy, but so many others just meander, stretching out well beyond their welcome like an encore that nobody actually asked for. As a document of Van Morrison’s stage presence, it’s thorough—painfully so. There’s a great one-album live record hiding in here, but instead, we get a bloated, self-indulgent marathon that feels more like a challenge than an experience. By the end, you’re less in awe of Morrison’s talent and more just relieved it’s finally over.

I like a bit of Van Morrison. Emphasis on the BIT! 90 minutes is too much! And a live album too! The very best a live album can do is be slightly worse than a mediocre studio album

If you love Van Morrison you'll like this because it's a load of Van Morrison. You'll have heard it before because you love Van Morrison.

I liked some of the parts where Morrison wasn't singing.

First of all way too long at over 90 mins. Secondly, this is a live album which I usually don't really care about. 2/5.

So like it's just a super long Live Van Morrison album? Lame 3/10

Really captured the live experience of enjoying the music and really looking forward for it being over

I wish he had stopped.

Live albums are rarely good, and this is not an exception though for different reasons than usual! this actually sounds really good for a live album from a production and recording standpoint, and then it’s just a terrible performance. Why is he like that live? Why were the horns so bad? Why was he yelling instead of singing? If I’d gone to that concert it would be to hear him singing! Reluctant extra star because it really is an impressive live recording

Shockingly well-recorded for a live album from the 1970s, but I just really did not care for the music or his voice. On the Wikipedia page for this album, it said that this captured one of his best vocal performances... really?! THAT was a good vocal performance?! And people claim that singers nowadays can't sing....

I LOVE Astral Weeks and really enjoy Moondance. This album simply made me mad. Is one star too harsh? Yes. The performances were fine. Had I gone to this show I would have had a fun time of it and been excited to watch him play my favorites. But for years, this album has been in various best albums lists, and I truly don't get it. This album is pointless. The studio versions are way better. And on this list, it's taking up a slot that could easily go to 50 different albums.

I don’t expressly dislike this album or van Morrison on musical talent. He’s clearly a very talented musician and a great performer. His whole schtick really strikes me as profiting off of a music genre and culture that he is very much not a part of. The way he emulates the singing voice of someone that he very clearly isn’t rubs me the wrong way. Further than that, I just didn’t enjoy listening to this record and it genuinely felt like a chore to slog through it. Not a fan. 1*

I believe it was Shakespeare who once said "van BORRISON,,!!!!! bitch"

I own this. I love this album. Automatic 5 stars for me

When many British/ Irish or white Americans sing "soul" music it can sound to me false. I have encountered some of that already only 51 albums in: Aerosmith and Gram Parsons (albeit singing "Country") come to mind. Van Morrison does not come across this way to me. I think that it is a cheat that this live album is included as it is also a "Greatest Hits" album sans Brown Eyed Girl and It stoned me. That cheat aside it is hard to find any fault in this perfect sounding album. Morrison's voice is as always impeccable and the band sounds excellent too. 4.5/5

Van has always been a twat - however he may have become a mumbling ballsack as he got older, here he shows how brilliant he was. Songs get stretched out like a pair of old trousers. Soulful vocals, brilliant musicians and a crowd that's ready for a great show. One of the greatest live albums of all time. Best Tracks: Into The Mystic; Bring It On Home To Me; St Dominic's Preview

Fantastic collection and performance of great, soulful, bluesy songs

'And it's ever present everywhere / And it's ever present everywhere.' So sings Van the Man on 'Warm Love,' one of the essentials from Hard Nose. When belted on this live recording it yet obtains new significance: 'ever present' is precisely how I'd describe this album. Morrison, tho always in some sort of flow state or rambling and scatting mindfulness, is particularly 'in the moment' here. While you'd want any live experience to be about the occasion, many live records do not manage to capture that here-and-now quality, but this one does brilliantly. Not only does Van sing w/ a 'it's too late to stop now' sensibility, but the backing musicians (e.g., the trumpet on 'I Believe to My Soul') achieve a verve not even Van attains in the studio.

## In-Depth Review: *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* by Van Morrison Van Morrison’s *It’s Too Late to Stop Now*, released in 1974, is widely considered one of the greatest live albums in rock history. Capturing Morrison and his Caledonia Soul Orchestra at their creative and performative peak, the album stands as a testament to the power of live performance, the emotional depth of Morrison’s songwriting, and his unique approach to musical authenticity. This review examines the album’s lyrics, music, production, themes, and influence, concluding with a balanced assessment of its strengths and weaknesses. --- ## **Lyrics** Morrison’s lyrics, both in his original compositions and his interpretations of covers, are marked by a blend of poetic mysticism and direct emotional expression. The live context amplifies the immediacy and vulnerability of his words. Songs like “Into the Mystic” and “Cyprus Avenue” showcase Morrison’s ability to evoke nostalgia, longing, and transcendence through evocative imagery and elliptical storytelling. The performance of “Cyprus Avenue,” in particular, is often cited for its emotional intensity and the way Morrison’s voice becomes a vessel for both personal memory and universal yearning[2][6]. His vocal delivery often transcends the literal meaning of the lyrics. Morrison employs vocal techniques such as stuttering, scatting, and stretching syllables, turning words into pure sound and feeling[2][4]. This approach blurs the line between language and music, making the lyrics feel both deeply personal and open to interpretation. --- ## **Music** Musically, *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* is a masterclass in live arrangement and ensemble performance. The album features an 11-piece band, the Caledonia Soul Orchestra, which includes a full string section—a rarity for live rock albums at the time[3][7]. The arrangements are lush yet dynamic, moving fluidly between genres: R&B, soul, jazz, blues, and rock. Key tracks like “Domino,” “Caravan,” and “I’ve Been Working” are driven by tight, energetic rhythms, punchy horns, and intricate interplay between band members. The band’s responsiveness to Morrison’s cues—his stops, starts, and spontaneous vocal outbursts—creates a sense of tension and release that is palpable throughout the album[4][6]. The extended versions of “Caravan” and “Cyprus Avenue,” which close the album, are particularly notable for their dramatic build-ups and cathartic climaxes, showcasing both the band’s virtuosity and Morrison’s charismatic leadership[7]. --- ## **Production** The production of *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* is defined by its commitment to authenticity. Unlike many live albums of the era, Morrison insisted on no studio overdubs or post-production fixes. What you hear is exactly what happened on stage—mistakes and all[3][7]. This approach lends the album a raw, unfiltered quality that enhances its emotional impact. The sound quality is exceptional for a live recording from the early 1970s. The mix is spacious and immersive, with a “three-dimensionality” that allows listeners to feel as if they are present at the performances[5]. The vocals are front and center, capturing every nuance of Morrison’s delivery, while the instruments are balanced to create a sense of depth and immediacy. --- ## **Themes** *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* is thematically rich, exploring ideas of nostalgia, spiritual longing, and the redemptive power of music. Many of the songs reflect Morrison’s fascination with memory and place—“Cyprus Avenue” and “Into the Mystic” evoke a sense of yearning for lost innocence and transcendence[1][2]. The inclusion of covers such as “I Just Want to Make Love to You” and “Bring It On Home to Me” situates Morrison within a broader tradition of soul and R&B, highlighting his reverence for musical history and his ability to reinterpret familiar material with fresh emotional depth[5]. The album also grapples with the tension between control and surrender. Morrison’s performances are meticulously crafted yet feel spontaneous, as if he is channeling something beyond conscious intention. This dynamic is particularly evident in the way he interacts with the band and audience, creating moments of communal ecstasy and introspection[2][6]. --- ## **Influence** Since its release, *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* has been hailed as a benchmark for live albums. Initially, it did not achieve major commercial success, peaking at No. 53 on the Billboard charts, but critical acclaim and its enduring reputation have elevated it to classic status[7][8]. The album has influenced countless artists in the realms of rock, soul, and singer-songwriter traditions, setting a standard for live performance authenticity and emotional intensity. Its refusal to rely on studio trickery or overdubs has inspired a generation of performers to prioritize live musicianship and honesty over technical perfection. The album’s blend of genres and its sophisticated arrangements have also contributed to the evolution of live concert recordings, demonstrating that live albums can be as artistically significant as studio efforts[7]. --- ## **Pros and Cons** | Pros | Cons | |------|------| | Unmatched vocal and emotional intensity from Morrison[2][4] | Some may find the lack of studio polish exposes minor performance flaws[3][7] | | Rich, dynamic arrangements by the Caledonia Soul Orchestra[3][6] | The album’s length and extended jams may test the patience of casual listeners | | Exceptional sound quality and immersive production for a live album[5] | Initial commercial reception was lukewarm, possibly due to its ambitious scope[7] | | No overdubs—pure, authentic live performance[3][7] | Absence of certain fan favorites (e.g., “Moondance” omitted due to a minor mistake)[3][7] | | Captures Morrison at his creative peak, blending genres seamlessly[4][7] | Some critics argue that the spontaneity is partly constructed, with regularized ad-libs[6] | | Setlist balances Morrison originals with transformative covers[5] | Some listeners may prefer the conciseness of studio versions over live improvisation | --- ## **Conclusion** *It’s Too Late to Stop Now* endures as a landmark in live music, capturing Van Morrison and his band at a moment of extraordinary creative synergy. Its strengths lie in the raw emotional power of Morrison’s vocals, the richness of the arrangements, and the integrity of its production. The album’s thematic depth and genre-blending approach have made it a touchstone for artists and fans alike. While its uncompromising approach to live recording may reveal occasional imperfections, these are far outweighed by the album’s sense of immediacy and authenticity. For listeners seeking a vivid portrait of an artist at the height of his powers—and a blueprint for what live albums can achieve—*It’s Too Late to Stop Now* remains essential listening.

Fantastic album. Van the Man! It’s always too late!

Love everything Van Morrison

This is so good. The band is amazing. Van is amazing. The production is a amazing. Well deserving of its 93 minute runtime.

Into the mystic…. No contest

Van may be an ahole as a person but he's a treasure as a song writer and musician.

Yay Van!! 5

I expected not to like this but enjoyed it more than I thought. The band is tight as hell and the horns, strings and piano all get their turns to shine. Van's singing also sounds great. There's a nice variety between the songs as well, from jazzy ballads to more rocking songs. I can see why this is held up as a great live album, it was a very pleasant surprise for me

Van the man! Normally a 1.5 hour live album would get a big eye roll from me but this was fantastic

A great live double album. I really enjoyed this as Van Morrison has such a unique style of singing. Timeless songs.

Großartig!

This one of those rare stellar live albums. Van Morrison may be an asshole but back then he could really put together a tight live band. No overdubs or select tracks. Just hit record and sell the album. That’s how bands should do live albums.

Never dissapoints!!!

Amazing Van. A category of music all of his own

Great blues rock album

This is the 26th album I’m rating. I think I’ve heard that name before but I know nothing about Van Morrison. Hopefully this is great. Also, I’m pretty sure this is rock based off of vibes. Ain’t Nothin’ You Can Do - Adding to my Playlist. Good thing this is actually good. I was worried this was going to be another shitty live double album like Space Ritual. Warm Love - Adding to my Playlist. This is fantastic a double album this good could definitely enter my top 15. Into the Mystic - Adding to my Playlist. This is really really good. These Dreams of You - Adding to my Playlist. Very safe song. I Believe to my Soul - Adding to my Playlist. Feels like Ray Charles. I’ve Been Working - Adding to my Playlist. Slave breeding. Help Me - Adding to my Playlist. Sounds like Sonny Boy Williamson the II. Wild Children - Adding to my Playlist. Live double albums are either incredible or terrible. This is incredible. Domino - Adding to my Playlist. I don’t even know what to say anymore these songs are great. I Just Want to Make Love to You - Adding to my Playlist. This is from 1954? Bring It On Home to Me - Adding to my Playlist. These songs are just great. Saint Dominic’s Preview - Adding to my Playlist. This albums feel weirdly familiar. Take Your Hand Out of my Pocket - Adding to my Playlist. Saxophone makes everything better. Listen to the Lion - Adding to my Playlist. This is pretty long and pretty good. Hear Comes the Night - Adding to my Playlist. Pretty cool. Gloria - Adding to my Playlist. This is probably the worst song. Caravan - Adding to my Playlist. I hate long songs but this is good enough to overcome my hatred. Cyprus Avenue - Adding to my Playlist. Live albums always have long songs and I hate it. All in all I liked 18/18 songs. I went into this with low expectations due to my previous experience with Space Ritual but this was fantastic. At 92 minutes I believe this is the longest album I listened to and it is one of the best. It is going into my top 20.

Would loved to have seen Van around this time. Just equality stuff. These days it seems like you have to deal with a terrible voice and that fact that he’s a crotchety old man with questionable opinions. Simpsons: No

Great live album. Crisp vocals, great blues and soul elements throughout, Van Morrison has always been great and nothing like a 1:30 live performance to show it.

Yet another live album, but I found myself enjoying It's Too Late to Stop Now. It helped I already enjoy Van Morrison's work. Morrison brings a calming and joyful energy to his studio albums. The energy he brought to this concert is no less joyful but also energetic and fun. His live rendition of "Gloria" is so lively and has a bit of a call-and-response with the audience--way better than his original recording with Them. The studio version of "Domino" is downright boring compared to the live version! But his voice can still be just as tender and evocative compared to the studio albums, which may be most obvious on "Into the Mystic" or "These Dreams Of You." Sometimes I feel the inclusion of live albums on this list are another version of greatest hits, which seems to miss the point. Not only is the energy different but the arrangement too. The string instruments in "Caravan" are beautiful, bring a different vibe, and give me life. That's another song Morrison improved with this live recording. Perhaps the best compliment I could give to a live album is that I'd love to see Van Morrison live. He's fifty years older now, but I'd have a grand time if he was only half as good as on the recording.

Amazing live record. Van at his greatest. Production is superb s is the selection of songs. A MUST listen!

4,5/5 but I'm giving 5 because spotify played live version which I couldn't believe

I often wonder about spending more money on a concert ticket than it would take to buy the band’s entire repertoire; Van the Man’s album shows us why. Each song is taken in a perfectly new direction, creating a new experience. His understanding of jazz makes his blues truly unique. The first record and the last couple of songs are masterpieces. And no overdubbing!!

When a 90 minute double album is this easy to listen to 2 times through, I guess that makes the rating pretty clear. While Van Morrison is great live, it's the accompaniment of the Soul Orchestra that puts this over the top for me.

It is absolutely remarkable how similar his studio and live voices are as somebody with such a unique singing voice

I was going to give this a more critical review but it’s too late to…

I'm a little surprised by the number of negative and outright harsh reviews. Maybe there is something I'm not tapped into. It's probably the scientology connection. He seems like a weirdo for sure, but this performance is a total jam.

Didn't actually listen to all of this but I really enjoyed it!

Van at his peak.

My fondest memories with my dad is driving down the California coast singing Van Morrison. **chefs kiss**

Incredible presence, unstoppable energy

holy carp it is long but it is a jam session the whole way through. best song is caravan in my opinion

I am not usually a big fan of live albums but this is an exception to that. 5 stars or A-.

Best live album we've had in 200+ albums. Sound is impeccable Vocals spot on Band is funky What a treat this was. 4.6

Best of the best!

Nice

All around great performance, so..yeah...5...why not.

Captures the sound and excitement of Van Morrison’s live show well and has a lot of his hits. I think he might have been missing a line or two of booger sugar though because his live recording from The Last Waltz with The Band was way more hype.

Easiest 5. Incredible performance.

Wow, 1001 has picked a gem

Great live album

Just a great live album for the summer

Wow!!!! One of the best live albums ive ever heard!! I was blown away, wish i was there!!

Jag älskar, älskar, ÄLSKAR Van The Man. Varje låt är ett mästerverk. Men det här är en liveskiva. Varför då? Skit samma. Den är bra ändå.

Även om jag inte är någon konnässör så har jag lyssnat en del på Van Morrison till och från och jag gillar honom, även om han ibland är lite ojämn. Hade dock inte stött på denna. Men HELVETE vad bra den var. Brukar inte lyssna så mycket på liveskivor så det kanske inte säger så mycket, men det här var det bästa livelyssningen jag någonsin upplevt. Karln är ju helt enastående bra live. Han är verkligen den bästa versionen av sig själv genom hela skivan (även om det såklart har med urvalet av låtar att göra också) och det är ren glädje att lyssna från start till mål, trots att den är lång. Otroligt bra band han spelar med också. Solklar femma och den bästa/mest överraskande lyssningsupplevelsen så här långt här.

Stellar keys work in this album. And who doesn't like Van Morrison?

I like a few Van Morrison or Them songs, but this album is all about the band. His voice helps of course. It's not even really about the songs, few of which really stand out for me, but largely because the quality is consistently very high. It's just a really good time. What a live performance. Basically a blueprint for the 70s blues soul live experience. With a really strong finish.

Van Morrison is a musical genius, but attending live performances can be frustrating. Here's this amazing concert, and he doesn't say one single word to the crowd. With all due respect, that's wrong. I saw him once and said that was enough. I will always listen to his music, I don't need to see him live.

"It's Too Late to Stop Now" is a live double album by Northern Irish singer-songwriter Van Morrison. The songs were taken from performances in LA, Santa Monica and London during a three-month tour with an 11-piece band, the Caledonia Soul Orchestra, which included a horn and string section. It was recorded at what's said to be his best phase as live performer. The album is considered among the best live albums ever. It did reach #53 in the US. The album begins with a cover of Bobby Bland's "Ain't Nothin' You Can Do." Hanndclapping, piano and a big sound with the horns. Van just belted it out. The strings, guitar and horns combine for a great version of "Into the Mystic." I love the horn sound when Van sings "When the fog horn blows. A top notch performance by Van too. "I've Been Working" showcases how funky this band can be. A wah wah guitar adds to an album highlight. One of my favorite songs on the album is "St. Dominic's Preview." All sections of the band are rollin.' Guitar, horns and piano. The album ends strong with side four. Van really gets the crowd going with two Them songs , "Here Comes the Night" and "Gloria." The band picks up the pace in the first song. The violin really shines. In the second song, there's hand clapping as Van leads a rousing version. "Caravan" is one song which combines the jazz, soul and blues of Van's music. He does a great job of playing off the strings and the strings off him. The album closer is a 10-minute version of "Astral Weeks'" Cypress Avenue." It's another song with Van improvising with the musicians as he builds and slows down the song and gets the audience involved. It's his most jazzy song on the album. An absolutely majestic ending with the horns. This is a great album with the music being both loose with the improvising and tight with band and instruments. Both Van and the musicians give each other space to improvise and perform and play off each other. It reminded me of Frank Sinatra and his band on "Songs for Swingin' Lover!." That is rare to come across. The musical styles included blues, soul, funk and jazz. The song selection is varied with covers, songs from Them and songs from all of Van's solo album excluding "Tupelo Honey" and "Blowin' Your Mind!" Yeah, I would say this up there with the best live albums I've heard.

This guy's voice has power and I think the backing band is tight

-love -great album for background music/dorm music

Look, I know Van Morrison is a shitty person, but this music reminds me so much of my childhood -- I love his voice, the piano, the horns, the strings, all of it.

The people who saw these shows got a treat. I would've been stoked to see these gigs. The band is on fire. I had a good friend who was into Van and I listened to a lot Van's catalog on road trips. A whole concert filled with bangers. Easiest 5 star album on the list.

This is an exceptional live album capturing Van Morrison at the peak of his powers. A fine selection of his best songs backed by an immaculate band, plus brass and strings. The recording quality is top notch too

Van at his best, backed by the transcendent Caledonia Soul Orchestra. What a shame that such a great artist is such an awful human being.

Jako dobar live

Van Morrison pushes me into so many conflicting emotions. Some of his albums are overrated wailing (Astral Weeks, 2 Stars) and others show his powers as a singer and composer. This very bluesy but powerful and uplifting albums is one of the better. In fact, it's a masterpiece and deserves its title as one of the best live albums ever recorded.

Great love chill

Awesome!

This is a live album? God damn...