HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO VAN MORRISON – AUGUST 31ST

Magic Time has been critically debated as being both a return to Van Morrison’s most inspired works and as a redundant mediocre work with little inspiration. At first this CD did not capture my imagination but each listening has brought about an appreciation of the subtle complexities that makes this collection of tunes classic Van Morrison.

A moody late night smoky lounge atmosphere permeates this work with a mix of sentimental slow waltzes and Big Band crooning jazz swing pieces. The collection is styled with a touch on mysticism and rooted in Van’s signature blend of soul, blues and jazz with a tinge of Celtic charm that is SO Van Morrison.

Whether you agree with the critics who claim Magic Time is inspired Van Morrison or with those who feel it is simply more of the same, one cannot deny the genius of Van’s own lyrical writings and his musical interpretations of the cover pieces included on the CD. The mix is vocally passionate yet perfectly pitched, the lyrical messages are subtle, the instrumentation is superior, the arrangements complex and varied enough to keep it interesting and the quality of sound is masterful. Overall, Magic Time inspires passion and delivers its promise.

“Stranded”, the first piece on Magic Time brings me back to a time of innocence and belief in romantic interludes. The image of two lovers embraced in a sexy slow bluesy dance under the light of the full moon is invoked when I listen to this piece. Van’s masterful musicianship shines through with a couple of hauntingly beautiful sax interludes.

Perhaps the most discussed cut on the CD is “Celtic New Year”. Again, it has the dreamy romantic imagery in its slow beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. Paddy Maloney lends a Celtic authenticity with the low whistle carrying the melody throughout the piece.

The pace picks up with a jazzy upbeat “Keep Mediocrity at Bay”, perfect dance music for all of you swing dancers. The center of Magic Time delivers three Big Band Crooner covers with Van’s interpretations of Frank Sinatra’s “This Love of Mine; Perry Como’s “I’m Confessing” and the classic R&B Ballad “Lonely and Blue”

“Just Like Greta”, “The Lion this Time” and “Gypsy in My Soul” are classic Van Morrison Tunes. Critics have interpreted these cuts as autobiographical; a glimpse into the heart of Van’s soul. The imagery of “Just Like Greta” is one of escape from the pressures of celebrity, while “Gypsy” has been a recurring theme throughout this Irish Troubadour’s career. Indeed, the heart of a Troubadour is one of a nomadic gypsy.

Magic Time’s signature song is left until toward the end of the collection. It is the most reflective song on the CD with Van taking a retrospective of his life and looking back to a time less jaded. It carries a sweet sentimental message with a sweet melody.

The last two cuts are worn out recurring themes in Van’s repertoire. “They Sold Me Out” and “Carryon Regardless”, while both are musically interesting, deliver a lyrical message that falls on listener’s deaf ears. Fans have grown weary of Van’s persistent slam of the music industry from which he has made his living.

Magic Time represents the 38th solo release in a 40 year music career. On August 31st, Van will celebrate his 60th birthday. Magic Time celebrates the milestones in Van’s prolific life with a diverse collection that is true to his very being. For this he makes no excuses or apologies; he’s simply fulfilling his mission in life by giving us a glimpse into his gypsy soul.

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