Moondance is often praised as a smooth, soulful classic, and while it’s certainly well-made, it doesn’t quite pull me in. The title track and Into the Mystic are lovely, and the musicianship throughout is slick and polished—but maybe a little too polished. The album glides along on jazzy grooves and warm tones, but it starts to feel a bit samey, like it’s playing in the background of a very tasteful dinner party you weren’t quite invited to. Van Morrison himself is a bit like a pint of Guinness—rich, iconic, and undeniably Irish, but if you're not in the mood, it can feel like a heavy task to get through. His voice has soul, sure, but there’s a hint of self-satisfaction that can make it hard to fully connect. Moondance is pleasant and classy, but for me, it doesn’t leave much behind once it’s over.