Surprises no one expected. And so it is: the songs, the lyrics, the arrangements - everything as usual. And this is in my view the special thing about this album. It is not a whit worse than his predecessor, but in my view even more exciting than "Keep it Simple". And this at the same time with a grandiose permeability, which can probably only hinbekommt aged. In various reviews that is interpreted by boredom. I do not see it that way. How, for example, on "Retreat and View" the Arrangement increases, and then withdraws again, is simply great. These subtleties have to recognize. And that's the great thing about this CD. Van Morrison simply delivers a piece of work, which is doing very well succeeded for the most part.
You have to time bear in mind that the man has begun in the mid-60s. Which well-known musicians succeeds easy to make after 40 years in business and on, and still deliver a high quality? Bob Dylan maybe ... And a couple of jazz and blues sizes. Sure - Van Morrison is now no longer the same as 40 years ago. When the Youtube footage of his performances you look at in the early 70's, you know, where the legendary status comes from. Today he is on stage, with glasses and hat, mostly immobile, sometimes conducts the band. However, this is more credible when he would make on young - as many colleagues (if they are still alive) - out roar to dye your hair and after transzendalem headbanging loud "It's too late to stop now." Or simply go only with Best Of pieces on tour. The make Sting, Peter Gabriel, Elton John and many more. And who started later.
Conclusion: the CD with the admittedly silly Cover and name features new songs, but no surprises. There is in my view correct highlights like "Going Down to Monte Carlo". However - the songs "If in Money We Trust" and "Pagan Heart" He could arrange much more exciting. Overall, a casual late work of Knödlers. For fans a must buy. For non-fans an excellent soundtrack for a sunny autumn day.
