From The Archives: 70s Vol 7 – Van Morrison – Moondance

The Album Breakdown

Just scraping itself into this decade this album was the 3rd solo album by Van Morrison. It followed on from the jazzy folk number that was Astral Weeks, and moved towards something a bit warmer and soulful.

It was a landmark moment as it was the first album that he produced himself, which in my opinion led to a more cohesive sound. While it never gets explosive it is consistent and atmospheric. There is no surprise it was his commercial breakthrough and has gone on to reach multi-platinum status.

Highlight Tracks

Moondance

For me this song is all about that instantly recognisable bass line. With hints of Jazz and irresistibly smooth and playful. The swing-esque feel and sax give it a real timeless glow that will never go out.

Van Morrison – Moondance (All Rights Are Retained By Van Morrison)

Into the Mystic

Built around a gentle and loving acoustic guitar this song takes on a hymn-like quality. The restrained vibe to the track allows for the vocals to shine, it’s a real emotional highpoint to the album.

Van Morrison – Into The Mystic (All Rights Are Retained By Van Morrison)

And It Stoned Me

The albums opening track, and massively story driven. With a warm feel that defines the album. This song is effortlessly engaging.

Van Morrison – And It Stoned Me (All Rights Are Retained By Van Morrison)

Other Notable Albums From The Band

Astral Weeks

His Band and the Street Choir

Blowin’ Your Mind!

All rights to the songs used in this post are retained by the band/artist. This site claims no rights over them.


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7 responses to “From The Archives: 70s Vol 7 – Van Morrison – Moondance”

  1. Kit avatar

    Absolutely awesome music. I have always liked Van Morrison, I guess I am maybe a bit old too.

    Like

  2. richardbist avatar

    Whenever I hear the song, “Moondance”, I’m reminded of a halloween party I went to many, many years ago. A young woman dressed as Mother Earth asked me to dance and this was the song they played. I never got her name or saw her again, but she lives on in my memories with this song.

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  3. lyndhurstlaura avatar

    Loved Moondance, and Van Morrison in general. 🙂

    Like

  4. Peter Mallett Racing avatar
    Peter Mallett Racing

    Apart from Moondance I don’t think he’s bettered the period in the 60s with Them. Baby Please Don’t Go; Gloria; You Just Can’t Win; and, Here Comes The Night, to name a few.

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  5. RasmaSandra avatar

    Into the Mystic is my favorite ever since they incorporated it into the movie series American Pie

    Like

  6. Sambuca (✿◠‿◠) avatar

    Moondance is a song, that I love to sing. Beautiful song. 😀

    Like

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